These days people are so dependent upon GPS devices and Mapquests that they don't know how to read nor use a good old fashioned map.  Most don't even have maps or atlases in their vehicles.

The thing is GPS and Mapquests can steer you wrong--then what do you do?  Hope to come across a cop and ask directions . . . good luck, that's when you won't see them.  I have "astonished" business associates by reaching for a map and plotting a new course to get us to a destination when our "technology" has failed.

Like anything else technology wise-- it helps to have the basic skills when the technology lets you down.  I worry that today's kids are too reliant on calculators and that they are losing the basic math skills.  It helps to be able to anticipate the answer in your head-- that way, you know if something is wrong.

That said, I finally broke down and purchased a GPS over the weekend-- I had yet another bad Mapquest episode last week that cost me both time and gas money-- it was my actual maps that saved me.  I knew that since I log 400-1000 miles per week it was finally time to go for the GPS.  However, I am keeping my atlases!

Develop and maintain your basic skills!