Saving time can be time-consuming

It’s a dumb idea that should have ended years ago. Of course, I’m referring to daylight saving time.

Back in 1949 when our state officially adopted this concept, it made more sense. A timepiece was an easy switch in those days. Change the mantel clock, one in the kitchen, a windup alarm clock, a couple of watches and ta-da! Mission accomplished.

Now it’s a whole different story. Let’s look at what a typical Lodi resident must go through to make this process happen today:

First of all, change the digital clocks on two microwaves and an oven. Each one works differently. Some of them you hit “clock” twice, others no. One has “AM” “PM,” others no. One oven screen says “hit ‘cancel’ button,” but there is no “cancel” button. Woops! Another try starts one of the microwaves turning.

Of course, one could figure out the differences among the units by digging out the manuals or by trial and error, but most will choose the latter. Eventually that works but not without a number of failures, which would rival the patience of Thomas Edison.

Moving on to the digital phones, file through the menu and eventually find “Time Set.” More trial and error until the new time remains permanent.

Next, there’s a wall clock and perhaps two thermostats. They are easily done as compared to what has just taken place in the kitchen. Oh yes, there’s a fireplace mantel timepiece as well.

Moving to the master bedroom to change the digital alarm clock, one needs a flashlight to read the fine print on the side. Clicking a button moves the numerals too quickly. Back up and try again.

Then there’s another clock on the office desk. Also, can’t forget at least two watches.

But we’re not done yet. Heading out to the garage, there may be a water softener that needs attention with another menu that makes no sense. Again through trial and error, find the time set. Bingo! another one down.

Most of us have an automatic sprinkler timer. Find the menu, click, click and an additional job completed.

Probably at least two vehicles reside in the garage — each with a digital clock and each that works differently.

If it’s an older car, the task may be fairly simple — but a modern vehicle? Well, that’s another story. Turn on the radio and try to figure out the menu from there.

We still may not be finished. For some, it’s now to the backyard and reset the pool pump timer. Oh yes, change the garden and security lights as well. Thank goodness the TVs, computers and cell phones automatically change on their own.

Job completed as long as one doesn’t own a second home. Then it’s mostly the same process all over again.

Now the kids can walk to school in the dark, productivity at the office can drop and auto accidents can increase.

So Sacramento legislators, please hear our plea. Get rid of this antiquated concept and free us from our laborious Sundays — just as Arizona has done for its residents. It’s not 1949 anymore, and oh … wait a minute:

Don’t forgot those two clocks hanging on the garage and patio walls!