During an extended family gathering a few weeks ago, my dad heard a high pitched ringing sound.

‘What’s that?’

But no one else could hear it… except my 15 year old cousin, Simon. It was his mobile phone. Did you know that phone manufacturers are selling phones with high frequency ring tones? The frequency is such that anyone over the age of 25 can’t hear it! Perfect for school! The teachers can’t hear the joke that everyone else is in on.

I have spent the last four days hanging out with mum, dad and Jason, eating at favourite restaurants and shopping for work clothes. The other thing that I’ve now ticked off on the ‘to do’ list was what mum called my ‘major service’. Like a car, I’ve been getting my annual check ups and oil changes. I’ve been to the doctor, the dentist, had some blood tests and an x-ray. I seem to be in good nick.

When I see my cousin this weekend, I guess I’ll have my hearing checked.