I really should start charging for those public appearances! Perhaps then I could afford to buy a lounge suite for my new place in Pinelands.

I have at long last found somewhere of my very own to live. Although it’s rather empty, I’ve got the essentials – the bed, my book collection, a mini desk, dining room table, a fridge and of course a microwave. Where would I be without the ready-made meals from Pick ‘n Pay?!

I had the privilege of speaking at the Academy of Science and Maths in Constantia on Monday. They were having a workshop run by the Department of Science and Technology. Apart from the DVD malfunction, it was pretty cool. It’s so rewarding to see that kind of enthusiasm… and you can tell that these guys really wanted to hear about Hip2b2.

In fact, when I asked who knew about Hip2b2, most of them raised their hands. Today South Africa, tomorrow the world… And let’s just say that the chance to meet Mark Shuttleworth sparked a few smiles, especially when the girls heard he didn’t have a girlfriend!

Speaking of which, quite a few people have sent in their letters motivating why Mark would want to meet them in August. We’re busy planning the day’s activities, and I think that it is going to be an awesome experience – for the winner and friend, as well as the Hip2b2 team.

You see, Mark inspires us too to give it our best - he is living his dream because he worked at his passions for maths and science. And that’s truly admirable.