A number raised to its eighth power.

Yesterday's fencing tournament went well. I placed in epee, and did well enough in foil. And I got to hang with people I enjoy.

Unfortunately, my week was, from one point of view, a failure. I got nowhere near meeting my client goals. But, I did get good work done, and I was fighting a cold, so I think I can do better this week.

I've also been on a Body Snatchers kick. I watched the 1956 and the 1978 versions. Next up is the 1993 version. I've read that the 2007 version isn't worth bothering over, so I won't. Or maybe I will. You'll find out.

Tonight's acting class homework was to bring a favorite or much-loved scene and explain what it meant to us. There were many great scenes, from across the years and genres.

My favorite--and not the one I chose--had to be the ending of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, the 1972 version with Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum and Jack Albertson. The joy in Gene Wilder's performance, the sincerity, and the tenderness all conspire to get me all mushy-eyed. As the actor who discussed the scene said, it's also the tremendous lesson of integrity and honesty that leaves such an impression.

For those who are curious, I chose a scene from Silent Running.