[bcab] An introduction

Hi all,
I have only recently subscribed to this list, and thought a quick introduction might be in order. 

So, now the problem is knowing what to say!
Well, I have been using personal computers since 1992. I had used computers whilst working for a bank in the 1980s, but those things were so different to what we now think of as computers, that I'm not sure they should count. Thinking back even further though, I recall using Sinclair Spectrums and BBC computers whilst at school. They were certainly closer to what now sits under my desk than the computers at the bank, which quite literally were the desk!
But anyway, my first real exposure to personal computers came at a course run by the RNIB at Manor House in Torquay. My thoughts on my time at Manor House are rather less than flattering, but that is a whole different tale. However, two good things came from the course. Firstly, it made me aware that a personal computer could be far more than a glorified games console, and secondly it made me want to prove the RNIB very wrong in what they thought the future was likely to hold for anybody with a visual impairment (I do so hope that their attitudes have changed since then!).
So, within a few days of finishing the course, I had bought my first PC. Soon after, I had applied for a place at university. A few years later I was the proud owner of a first class honours degree in politics. I then forgot to leave the university, and ended up working there for the next 8 years.
During this time I had developed quite a strong interest in computers. I had built several, and had designed and run a number of web sites. I had even managed to shoe-horn my interest in computers into my job at the university, and had somehow gained the title of the faculty 'geek'.
Two years ago, with my eldest daughter due to start at school, I took the decision to leave my job at the university and work for myself. Basically, I wanted the flexibility in my life so that we didn't have to worry about what to do with the kids before school, after school, during school holidays, when they were sick, or when something else unexpected comes along.
By this time I had a small portfolio of web sites, some of my own and some that I had designed for other people. I enjoyed doing this, so thought I would do it on a more professional basis. Yes, I know, like the world needs another web design business! But hey, it fits in very nicely with our current lifestyle needs, and I enjoy it.
I still build my own computers. My current system is just a few months old. However, I must admit to taking the easy option and buying a Dell system for the girls, as for what it cost and for what they actually need, it simply seemed the best option.
At the moment my sight is still at a level where I can use a computer without needing a screen reader or screen magnification. A large monitor, low resolution and a suitable colour scheme is still enough to get by. Well, most of the time anyway. Software that refuses to use my high contrast colour scheme can still be a problem, as is software which just gets confused by it and ends up trying to display black text on a black background or white on white. But, I'll save that particular gripe for another time. 

I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of thing gets discussed around here.

Dave Goodwin
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