But if I gave fewer exams the kids would have an incredibly difficult time sorting out the various regions of the world.

Today's exam was on Christianity and Islam (the beginnings.) I put more emphasis on Islam because, at this point in time, I think it's important to understand about Islam. I have barely begun grading the multiple guess parts and they don't look too good. Of course, arriving late and missing classes takes its toll.

One of my students came by to talk. She's been by before. Her problem is medical--some kind of a really nasty rash. I gather it's under control now and she was anxious to set up a make-up time for today's exam. So, I'll be going in even earlier Friday so she can get the exam out of the way at 6:45.

My student who kept insisting that graduating seniors didn't have to take finals has settled down and was quite polite today. (I wonder if my e-mail to her adviser asking for clarification of the finals thing had anything to do with it?) I responded with smiles and pleasant talk.

When I told a colleague about the e-mail to the adviser he gave me a look and said something on the order of "calling in the big guns!"

So, another problem seems resolved.

Tomorrow I'll be back at Newcomb and I'm ready to delve back into the Choice person's files. I dress somewhat less "formally" than when I'll be standing in front of a class, which usually translates as a sweater rather than a jacket. I'll have to pay attention to the weather forecast before I decide which to wear tomorrow.

As of now, it doesn't look like I'll be at Xavier in the spring, but one never knows how last-minute registration will go. But I will be at Newcomb. Somehow, I don't think the work there will ever be "done."

And now back to grading.