Catching up...

It's been a while, I know. Let's catch up:

Philadelphia
I've lived here for 5 years now and my internal debate between the "keep-on-renting" and "time-to-buy" sides has intensified. A few years back, I was not sure whether I would commit to a long-term span of living in this city, but through a combination of inertia and some conscious decision-making, it seems that a long-term stay is not in the realm of the fantastic anymore.

Still am not sold on the so-called benefits of ownership -- though the strongest argument I heard is that paying a mortgage should be seen as paying for the right to make a future profit (assuming house prices go up, of course). I've decided to give it one more year and then I'll make the decision.

The city feels like a well-kept secret -- affordable, intriguing, gritty and buzzing with potential future development. Let's see.

Philadelphia 76ers
Well, if I can't commit to home ownership, at least I can commit to a season ticket for the Sixers' 2003-2004 season. New coach (Randy Ayers) and a new offensive threat (Glenn Robinson). I feel optimistic about the upcoming season -- Ayers will allow players to follow their natural tendencies and run the floor and Robinson may be that legitimate 2nd scoring option (finally!). Then again, optimism about a sports team that ends up being misguided is far too common in this town.

EllipticBlog
This has been dormant for a while. I think I need to change its tone and purpose. Instead of only being a collection of relatively serious ruminations, I will open it up and allow shorter, more frequent entries. Open it up to some friends and let them post comments. Make it a more dynamic place. Let's see.

Also, I want to add more photography into the Blog. Will need to carry the Nikon CoolPix 4500 with me often.