Has anybody noticed today's date: 1/11/11? How's that for symmetry (and does anybody other than Kevin and me think that's really cool, lol?)

Last year at this time, I always anticipated snowstorms eagerly, anxious for a free day to sleep late and catch up on my grading/planning for school. But now that I am always free, a snowstorm is just an inconvenience. In the case of the 8-14" predicted for overnight tonight, it will likely cancel my luncheon date with Agnes tomorrow (although fortunately we have a “snow date” scheduled for Saturday). Not to mention all the cleanup the storm will require.

One of the joys of retirement so far is meeting with former students, either for lunches or just for conversations. It is actually better than having them show up unexpectedly at the Math Lab because then I always had interruptions, other students needing help, or classes to go to. Now we can spend 1-2 hours of uninterrupted conversation, which is nice. Of course, I do not know how long these meetings will last, but I am certainly enjoying them while I can.

Currently reading: Sailing From Byzantium is a fascinating book which I have dragged out far too long. Several months ago I read the first two sections about Constantinople’s dealings with western Europe (especially the Franks and Venetians) and the Islamic Empire, but know I am reading the final section about its dealings with the Slavs and Russians. This is the most interesting portion since I knew virtually nothing about the history of that region. I recommend this book highly.