So it’s been 6 weeks since I last blogged about how I was going to survive without a smartphone and I return to you a few days after I received my iPhone 4 with disappointing news: I failed my little experiment. Listen, I’m not one that admits failure easily or even openly, but I failed this puppy miserably.

If you remember when I last checked in, after going a whole weekend without any kind of phone, my brother took pity on me and loaned me his first generation iPhone. Keep in mind that I really had no other alternative. My plan to get a cheap, basic phone from AT&T didn’t work out, and I needed something to make phone calls with. Besides, I had the best of intentions in the beginning, telling myself I would only use the phone for calls and texting, no apps. But, the temptation was too great. As painful as using the first generation iPhone is, when compared to the speed and GPS ability of the 3G and 3GS, it is far better than not having a smartphone at all.

So yes, I caved completely. It started with making my daily picks using ESPN’s Streak for the Cash app, then I began peeking at the forecast, then (aw heck), why not check my personal email too? But, I DID draw a line in the sand, albeit a faint, barely visible line at that; I refused to add my work email or calender to my phone - though I admit that is more of a lifestyle choice than one made out of scientific experimentation or deprivation.

Even with the limited use of the first gen iPhone, it’s been a tough two months, and it has certainly been an interesting experience. I think that despite our best intentions, many of us become addicted (though “reliant” sounds softer) on our smartphones. Smartphone users must admit that when we see someone pull out a flip phone or some small, plastic, inexpensive phone, we shudder and mutter to ourselves, “poor thing.” We consider that person less savvy than we are and behind the times. We don’t think or say these things because we are mean-spirited people, we just can’t help ourselves – we need our smartphones.

So, I apologize for giving in. I would like to have sat here a few months later a changed man, but alas, I have already gone for a run with my new phone, using my favorite app Runkeeper (who just launched their new website by the way), I am taking advantage of the one inbox and have set up all my email accounts (including work), I have shot a few photos and videos of my son, tweeted, posted to Facebook, and have sorted my apps into neat little folders. I am “reliant” on my iPhone and don’t mind admitting it. Now let’s just hope I don’t drop this one.