I won my iPad this past spring (yes, I am really blessed!) and it (as well as my iPhone) is a part of me. I take it to bed with me and use it until I can't keep my eyes open. I open my eyes, and reach for my iPad (or iPhone), and it is my constant companion. There is just so much to do with it, that it is IMPOSSIBLE to put it down and leave it alone for more than an hour! So, you're not alone, and yes, this is something that as far as I can tell, will remain *essential* to our lives for a long, long time (at least until Apple comes out with a new toy! ;)
Paulette
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