To test my new answering machine, I call myself at the office as soon as I get home. The recorded announcement says I’m not there. I reply, “Of course you’re not. You’re here.” Norma laughs from the next room. For several weeks, with growing amusement and a hint of dismay, she’s been listening to me evaluate all the answering machines and their features: automatic redialing, remote playback, and — Norma, get this! — a speakerphone that lets you carry on a conversation from anywhere in the room.