Happy Friday, everyone! It is cold and snowy here, but if you think America is in the grip of winter, I direct you to Julie's amazing link of Frozen Britain. They're not really used to that sort of thing over there!

Also from Julie: it turns out that ancient Egypt's dramatic eye makeup may have had some medical benefits as well.

On the other hand, from Cassandra: pet tarantulas may be very bad for you in ways you never suspected. Ew!

Also from Cassandra: 2010 marks the 200th anniversary of Chopin's birth, and we should not fear the coming decade.

From Josie: "The Knife in collaboration with Mt. Sims and Planningtorock have been busy on an opera about Charles Darwin." WOW.

Stay warm, everyone! See you Monday.