My Spare Time

A few months ago, playing Call of Duty 4 was my favorite way to spend some downtime (although Adina didn't really appreciate having to listen to it.) I got the game when I went on night shift, so I had plenty of time then to play both the story mode and the multiplayer versions. Lately, however, I've noticed a shift in what I spend my free time doing.

I had been learning Python (a programming/scripting language, for those who aren't familiar) with the eventual goal of learning Django, which is a set of Python frameworks to simplify web application development. Most of this Python learning was done at work since it had some direct applications in my work environment, and I was able to build some scripts for the company to make life much easier for a few people.

I'm still just a beginning Python programmer, but I decided it was time to take the jump into Django, and pick up more general Python skills as needed along the way. Over the last week or so, I've been working my way through Practical Django Projects, and loving it.

Now I find myself using my spare time to learn more Django. I haven't played Call of Duty once since I picked up the book. I haven't even played any Wii games recently, except one brief excursion when Adina wanted to play a game. Then it was back to Django. Even my TV watching has been corrupted. I don't normally just sit down and watch TV anyway, but now it's even worse. Learning and watching TV at the same time doesn't necessarily allow for very productive learning, but I can't stop.

Today is a holiday. Adina and I couldn't come up with anything exciting to do, so she went to a national park with some friends, and I stayed home. What am I doing? Learning Django. Yes, there's the occasional diversion, but it's mostly Django today.

This doesn't mean I'm any good at it yet, but I should get there quickly since I'm having so much fun. I guess this means I'm turning into more of a geek than I used to be. That's not a bad thing.