Tom's blog

Today I’m starting my first simple Python program, a Spelling Test application that I hope will allow me to outsource a repetitive and time consuming tiger parenting task.

The program will need to:

1. Take in a list of 10 new spelling words each week
2. Provide a randomised list of:
   1. The weeks 10 new spelling words
   2. 10 words taken from the universe of all input spelling words
3. Provide a spoken prompt to spell each word
4. Receive the child’s input and assess accuracy
5. Stare in cold disappointment should the child make an error

Additional features that would be welcome but not essential

1. Provide some sort of reporting on frequency of words tested, most common errors etc
2. Be accessible from a tablet

I’ll post back here if and when I complete the project.

I’m learning Python using the excellent if off-puttingly titled ‘Learn Python 3 The Hard Way” by Zed A Shaw. The experience is surprisingly enjoyable and provides a more productive diversion than diving into a pit of increasingly obscure youtube videos or cruising putlockers for Ross Kemp documentaries.

Well it has been a while but finally got round to digging out the log in key and reactivating this long dormant account.

I) I will look upon death or upon a comedy with the same expression of countenance.

II) I will despise riches when I have them as much as when I have them not.

III) I will view all lands as though they belong to me, and my own as though they belonged to all mankind.

IV) Whatever I may possess, I will neither hoard it greedily nor squander it recklessly.

V) I will do nothing because of public opinion, but everything because of conscience.

VI) I will be agreeable with my friends, gentle and mild to my foes: I will grant pardon before I am asked for it, and will meet the wishes of honourable men half-way.

VII) Whenever either Nature demands my breath again, or reason bids me dismiss it, I will quit this life, calling all to witness that I have loved a good conscience, and good pursuits.

https://aeon.co/classics/massimo-pigliucci-on-senecas-stoic-philosophy-of-happiness

Yet another grey and oppressive morning in Hong Kong. I’m relieved it is Friday to be completely frank.