When I am away from home, and someone tells me about a date and time for a meeting, I call home and leave the message on the answering machine. We keep a note pad by the machine and we are both very careful to write down messages. When I return home, I note the appointment on my kitchen calendar so I will not forget. My husband does the same thing from his office - especially if it is an early morning meeting and he will be going directly there from home. This also helps me keep my messages on the answering machine current.
Some people have really long messages.
Since I hear mine often, I know how tiring a long message can be. Double click on Programs. The programs listed in this folder automatically start when your computer is booted up. Remove the program by clicking on it and pushing the delete key. Rub raw potato on your visor.