Interesting bits

Impressive photos (and information) of the frilled shark here. (Be sure to look at all four photos, very neat critter.)

Here is a magic spell that the ancient Egyptians used to protect their tombs from snakes. Most interestingly, is the Hebrew/Canaanite connection.

There is a new top 10 list over on Live Science. Top 10 Ancient Capitals -- I had no idea Cahokia, Illinois used to be such a great place. When I was growing up, my mom used to take me to the mounds, but these days it's just a suburb of a suburb of St. Louis.

The other new top 10 list is of interesting animal facts. Of particular note:
* Mole-Rats aren't blind
* Many fish are hermaphroditic
* Parrots can grasp concepts

(no subject)

In the early 80s, there was a contest amongst school teachers. The winner of the contest got to go into space. My mother was considered for inclusion into the contest but she turned it down, as my brother and I were too young to be left alone for so long. Turns out that she made the right decision.

Now, twenty years later, they're giving it another go. I am very glad that in this time of unreasonable fear, there are still those who refuse to let tragedy keep us down.

I wish Barbara Morgan all the luck in the world, and beyond.