tommy's scratchpad

Well, I’ve finally decided to give Python an honest try. A born and bred Perl hack, then dipping into PHP, I’ve seen much Python applause in the geospatial software community through many of Sean’s posts. Though I know Sean thinks mapscript is a disaster, it was via mapscript that I started to look more into Python.

So here’s what I typically start off with when doing development:

• HTTP / URLs / Forms: for Perl, I use CGI; for PHP, I use the native, built in functions
• XML Processing: for Perl, I use XML::Simple; for PHP, I use SimpleXMLElement
• Database: for Perl, I use DBI; for PHP, I use the compiled in mysql support, for example

So far I’ve found urllib2 and ElementTree to be useful. Other than that, I’m finding the command line pretty awesome for one offs and testing.

If anyone’s got any other suggestions, that would be great!!

UPDATE (20 June 2007): Manual trackback and great post / response from Sean

Check out this graphic I found (thanks digg), which shows the effects of smoking cessation. I also saw this recently in the doctor’s office, and found it really helpful and encouraging.

I’m glad to say I’ve been 100% smoke free (via Zyban for a month) for almost six months now (the only New Years Resolution that I’ve kept this long!).

Yesterday I got the keys to my new condominium. Awesome place, and well built (materials, craftsmanship, etc.). I think a great part about this place is the shared amenities (party / dining room, gym, pool, virtual golf, etc.). And the view of the city is quite nice from my balcony.

Be sure to check out all the photos!!