October 26, 2000. I was sitting at my desk reading the front page of the Nasdaq when I noticed the composite was up 40 points. I couldn't believe it because earlier in the day I was whining because it was down 100 points, so I turn to confer with my boss and as I was about to speak the phone rang. I shook my head and he picked up the phone, that's when it hit me that I hadn't realized yet that the way we pick up the phone and answer it is a pattern. Every time I answer the phone at work I will say "Blockstackers, Rob Oostendorp speaking." When I am at home I will pick up the phone and say "Hello", with a little slur on the H. I never just say "Hi", it's always "Hello". I'll bet this is true for everyone! I don't know why this intrigues me so much; I just find it interesting because it covers two patterns in one wild swoop, language and actions.