Hello Computer

I've realised that my laptop is on the way out. It's a shame, but it has been on the way out for a while. I've been reluctant to admit that it might be a lost cause, but it's strange what you can get used to:

• The battery stopped working, so I had to keep the laptop plugged in.

• The hard drive failed and had to be replaced.

• One of the hinges is a bit broken and as a result the other hinge is working much harder.

• The buttons next to the trackpad stopped working, so I plugged in a mouse which broke, so I plugged in another mouse which broke, so I've plugged in a third mouse which doesn't work very well.

• It gets slower as it gets hotter until it overheats.

• The Alt and F12 keys lift off the keyboard to an angle of about 45 degrees.

I'm really fond of this computer, but I have had it since Christmas 2005. Is seven years a good lifespan for a laptop computer?

Goodbye Computer.