Russell and Norvig's AI book was up for bidding on eBay yesterday. I submitted a low bid and won. It's the international softcover version; not usually available in the US from traditional sources. Too bad, because it is much cheaper. Personally, I think that in the US, we are being taken to the cleaners on textbooks.

Some time ago, I mentioned that my chorus might be going to Spain. However, I think that won't happen. The guy responsible for setting up the exchange with the Spanish choir moved away, and hasn't been heard from much. Also, our director seems more interested in setting up a concert tour in China. That's introduced another scheduling issue for me – when to fit learning Chinese into my busy schedule. Due to the learning curve of the spoken language plus Chinese characters, I think it might be better to take a class rather than try to teach myself. I can also justify learning Chinese on professional grounds – at most places I apply, there are positions that require, or recommend, that the applicant speak Chinese (Mandarin).

One of the more difficult things about learning French is that I don't get much of an opportunity to hear and speak it. However, there are plenty of opportunities to hear and speak Chinese in the SFBA, as it is the first or second language for many people living here. Several people I dance with speak it.