The following is probably only of interest to technically inclined readers:

As climate changes, many species are moving. Sometimes, it is from lower to higher altitudes, in order to live in familiar temperatures. Sometimes, it is from south to north for the same reason. Such natural adaptation is inevitable and, while it is a coping mechanism for individual species, it invariably changes the composition of ecosystem. [...]

This morning, I had a French conversation class. The advantage of being in the first class of the day was that nobody else showed up. As such, I learned a lot of vocabulary relating to Welsh mountain climbing, desalination, battery and fuel cell technology, and fossil fuels. There will be two one-hour classes a week, [...]

People who do not spend half their lives on the internet may not have heard about the One Laptop Per Child Program. This non-profit initiative has produced an inexpensive laptop meant to be used as an educational tool by children in the developing world. The device has been reviewed by the New York Times and, [...]

Many thanks to everyone who called or sent various kinds of electronic messages for my birthday. I will respond to all of them, in the fullness of time. Special thanks to the various people who sent me kind gifts. In emulation of Emily, I will list a few in order to highlight the amusing diversity:

Green [...]