Hi. I’m back. For those who care: the kid is healthy and cute — eating, sleeping, and pooping per his genetic programming. Oh yeah, and consuming the earth’s precious resources. Bad baby! Bad, bad baby!

For two weeks I’ve been on a total news blackout, and let me tell you friends, it’s been nice. Prior to my paternity leave, I was sinking into a malaise, depressed about the racism, incompetence, and short-sightedness exposed by Katrina. Browsing the headlines today, I see that … nothing’s changed. But I, at least, am recharged, and shall forthwith resume bringing you all the earth’s grim tidings. Whee!