Oh why is it so hard to start writing?  I've been staring at my blank Nabataean page, trying to come up with a good first paragraph that isn't too academic and dry as to put the readers to sleep, or too hackneyed that it turns into unwitting comedy.  I really gotta respect popular science authors that strike a good balance between keeping the audience engaged as well as presenting good, factual information, especially after having read really boring treatises on volcanoes (which I love) or trite books that tugs at your emotion rather than your rational thoughts to win the argument.  I have no illusion that I'm a decent science writer.  I'm simply sharing my enthusiasm for archaeology and linguistics, and trying to encourage kids to discover the rich history of our world. 

Anyway, I really gotta go get some sleep...I'm sure Alex will be up at 7am kicking me.