I'm in Poland, in freezing Krakow, a city marvelous enough to overcome even shitty weather. The old town's full of twisty streets and aromatic cafes, and UD's happy. Though cold.

She'll be back in the States in a few days, in preparation for her assault on this year's convention of the NCAA in Nashville in mid-January. She's thrilled that Inside Higher Ed is sending her there, and hopes to be inspired by the grand Grand Ol' Opry setting to do some good writing in general, and some good writing about universities in particular, and some good writing about bigtime sports at universities in particular particular.

Be back soon. Best wishes to all IHE readers for an excellent New Year.