Hang up to hang out

This month’s blog idea was sparked by something that annoys me to no end, which I have come to realise is a common pet peeve among others as well. I personally have spent one too many days hanging out with someone who spends the entire time glued to their phone!I understand that we live in a technology driven society, and being the editor of NetGuide, of course I appreciate cell phones, Facebook and all the rest of it as much as the next person, if not more. But I think there is a line that is crossed (by a mile) by way too many people. Forgive me if I speak boldly here, but there is a substantial difference between appreciating technology and being addicted to it!Now I will admit that I spend my fair share of time on Facebook, Skype or on the phone. Being from Canada, it is a wonderful way to stay in touch and keep updated on the lives of my friends back home. However, when I am hanging out with someone (in the flesh), whether we are out for dinner,  at a movie or just relaxing at home, I don’t think it’s too much to ask for their undivided attention for the length of our date.I can make an exception if somebody has to answer an urgent phone call or a text relevant to plans we are making or something we are doing. I can even accept a quick phone call or text to get the gist of what the caller wants, followed by "but I’m actually busy at the moment, I’ll have to get back to you later.” But I just cannot wrap my head around why it is absolutely necessary to text, talk on the phone or, worst of all, Facebook chat while you are spending time with someone else. To me, this is inexcusably rude! I have one friend who invited me over for dinner and a movie and then spent literally the ENTIRE time on her phone. She talked to someone the whole way through dinner, followed by a good 20 minutes on Facebook and then texted through the entire length of the movie. What’s worse, this isn’t the first time it has happened with this particular friend. It has actually gotten to the point where I now will just get up and leave if I see the phone creeping its way out of her purse. So, call me old fashioned, but as cool and useful as technology today is, there is a time and a place. Maybe it’s just me, but I think there is still something to be said for face-to-face (not face-to-screen) time.