The Space Geek in Us All

Nothng makes this Nerdy Scientist happier than seeing other people excited by science. And today, here in the Old Pueblo, science made a surprise and exciting visit. Former astronaut Mark Kelly asked NASA to fly the space shuttle Endeavour over Tucson on its way to California from Houston. He was the Endeavour's last commander, and in his and Gabby Giffords' honor, they agreed. The shuttle flew over at 11:15 a.m.

At 11:05, S and I went across the street to the little park, joined minutes later by our office mates. Others trickled out into the parking lot as the time drew near. Where was it, everyone kept asking, till yours truly, the Nerdy Scientist herself, spotted it and yelled "There is is!" Of course, we are all Nerdy Scientists in this building, or civilians who work with nerdy scientists, so we were bound to be excited.

But here are some links to local coverage, including a video made over the University mall. Yes, I am nerdy enough to think this was super cool. My sister got to see Enterprise flying into NYC as her office building is right on the river (great photos, sis!). My photos are not nearly as good, so enjoy these instead. I was more concerned with watching it with my naked eyes to remember it than seeing it through a lens.

Local coverage.
Link on right to UA Mall video.

My photo, taken from the park across from the office.

DoodleBug's First Race

DoodleBug just signed up to do his first official race, the Aids Walk next month. It's only 4K, which will be a breeze for us both, but it's the only charity race/walk I know of that allows dogs (although unofficially, there were some at the Climb to Conquer Cancer Walk I did this spring). And he was the first dog to sign up. He'll get a bandana, not a bib, so I don't think it will have a number on it, especially since it's not a timed race. Hopefully, I'll be able to find more events like these he can do. Should I make him his own fundraising page?

"She Told Me Not to Bother Greg..."--A DoodleBug Flip Book

"Don't go in there." "I won't."

"See? I'm not going in."

"Don't blink." GingerBoy is also a Dr. Who fan. If you don't get the reference, well, too bad. It would take too long to explain it.

"Hi there, can I help you with that lunch?"

Greg starting petting him immediately, and sneaking him bits of his wife's delicious corn bread.

This is what happens on Take Your Golden to Work Day.

Why Science is Fun

Sixty years after Rosalind Franklin, and Watson and Crick, we just realized how little we know about human DNA.  Fascinating, overwhelming, inspiring, fun--our DNA "hairball."

"Bits of Mystery DNA, Far From Junk, Play Crucial Role"

This is going to change everything.