Fax machines, automatic teller machines, personal and lap-top computers and cell phones that not only allow you to call anyone from anywhere, but take great pictures. Modern technology is coming up with something new, it seems, every day.

But with all the strides we have made and all the inventions designed to make our lives a little easier, wouldn’t you think someone would have come up with a way to stop that last piece of ice from hitting you on the nose when you try to get it out of your drinking glass?

I know in the world of business we have come to rely on technology to get us through the day, but what I’m talking about is day-to-day living. You know we can live without a fax machine, but what would you give to have pantihose that won’t rip, run or tear — without looking as though your legs have gained two pounds each?

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In the grocery stores they have cash registers that tell the checker everything he or she needs to know about the prices, change and which product is on sale, but wouldn’t you rather have them stack the oranges in a way that won’t make them all fall on the ground when you take just one?

While we’re on the subject of food, if someone could invent a cracker that doesn’t break when spread with peanut butter, they might find themselves the recipient of a Nobel Peace Prize.

Of course while buying these products, we also have to contend with the dreaded shopping carts. I don’t know why, but I always seem to be the one to find the cart with bent or squeaky wheels.

I do have to admit technology at its best is designed to make our lives a little easier. For instance, everyone at some time during their busy week eats at a fast-food restaurant and it helps that you don’t have to leave your car to get it — unless you can’t understand the voice that repeats your order through some modern, technological device. Blood pressure has been known to rise, while trying to carry on a conversation with a metal box.

With all the great brains that have invented some of the gadgets available to us today, don’t you think someone could have designed a lighting system that revealed the true color of a lipstick or nail polish before leaving the store.

Anyone who has watched TV very late at night or in the early hours of the morning knows there are new inventions popping up on a regular basis, designed to make our everyday life easier. Some may work, some may not, but don’t you think it strange that no matter what it does, it always costs  $19.95?

While I’m in my complaining mode, I would also like to see metal coat hangers abolished completely from the face of the earth. They hate me and attack me whenever they get the chance.

So listen up inventors. Before you come up with the ultimate phone that not only wakes you up in the morning, but also brushes your teeth, please design a pair of good looking shoes which not only feel comfortable in the store, but make my feet happy after nine hours at work.

 Oh and did I mention the last piece of ice?

jennifer e.  may  is Teche Life editor of The Daily Iberian.