Our trip back east to Ithaca (and Albany) has ended. Makes me realize even more how much I miss that place (Ithaca) -- at least this time of year.

We arrived Friday afternoon to find Cornell receiving a new incoming class, but as is typical, Mother Nature was seen luring them into a sense of false security with mild sunshine and a tranquil breeze to match.

We spent a couple of hours in the Shoals Lab catching up with friends there. They informed us that my graduate advisor, Robert Farrell, had died recently (obituary). But they also said they'd be interested in having a virtual tour done for the island next spring or summer.

Saturday we dropped in for the local Star Fleet Battles tournament, which instigated the whole trip. After a suitable number of double-takes from everyone we knew there, I got in a couple of games and enjoyed what seemed like old times.

We ate great Italian and Thai food at a couple of new places in town, hung out with long-time friends, and generally relaxed (if you can believe that). Definitely a great visit, and sadness that we couldn't make it last longer.

All the trees and vegetation... so much green.