Don't look now, but there has been a new release of Python Mode for emacs. I just happened to look by chance. First time in years and it appears as if it just came out! Loaded it up and - bam! Didn't really notice any difference. I guess that is a good thing.

So if you're the one person I know that develops Python and uses emacs make sure to update your stuff.

This was definitely one of those "ah-ha!" moments in my programming journey.

Take a read of Implementing "weightless threads" with Python generators

Some ideas are so simple they're hard. I think this is one of those cases.

No SQL databases are all the rage lately. Been experimenting with Cassandra myself and became very interested in the theories and ideas behind this class of databases. Oh, more infomation you say?

• Brewer's CAP theorom - just read it.
• Amazon's Dynamo which is one of the first widely publicized instances of a no sql databse being used in a large production environment.
• NoSql Landscape (part 1) - a good summary of the current landscape. Lots of projects making lots of headway. It sure is fun to watch.

It might hurt your brain, but it's good for what ails ya.

Sing the praises! It's that time of year again! Short sleeves!

Maybe I'm getting old, but this winter felt especially long and hard. Yes, we had extra snow. There was something else. Oh, I remember. Having two monsters couped up the whole winter. Enough to test the most patient of people.

I would like to thank the following saving graces:

• The zoo - we have a family membership and will for the foreseeable future
• The gym
• My office space heater
• Giant bags of Dunkin Donuts coffee - every morning! hothot as Nora would say.
• Smartwool Socks
• Our 20 year old snowblower - you made it another year

Winter, I will check you on the other side of fall. I'll be the tall grizzled guy with the warm socks.