I wanted to run a simple benchmark of two common stacks as a way to get a sense of baselines between Python and Rust for a backend web server. For Python, a common choice is FastAPI and SQLAlchemy. For Rust, a common choice is Axum and SQLx. How do they compare?

As a first-time homeowner, I heard that a home warranty could be a good idea, so I got one. It sounded great, with a similar pitch as insurance: pay a premium, and the warranty will cover up to $15,000! But, then I was shocked by the fine print. Check your policy for these dark pattern before you buy.

When faced with tasks in life, many people fall into two approaches: quality or quantity. Sometimes this is framed instead as fast or slow. There is some tension between the two mindsets—a gradient between “move fast and break things” and “slow is smooth; smooth is fast”. I find I typically lean towards the slower end of the spectrum.

Not long ago a good friend of mine was hired to teach a “Freshman Success” class at a local high school. This was the first time she’d be teaching the class. She is an excellent teacher, and I’m confident she made an impactful semester. But, it got me thinking, what would I want to teach a high school freshman about to set them up for success?

As an engineer, you’re always refining which tools are in your toolbox. Here’s a big list of software I enjoy using in 2023. It’s different than in 2022, and I expect it will be different again in 2024. Everything in this list I probably touch within a month. Many tools are part of my daily workflows. Here they are in lexicographical order.

I’ve added a webring (via openring-rs) to this blog. For those of you who remember the webring in the older days of the internet, openring is a kind of a modern take at webrings.

Just wanted to make some notes on “Resolving the Great Undo-Redo Quandary”. It was high on HackerNews, but I missed the window to post.

I’ve recently been playing with Pipewire. Here’s a quick tip if you want to create a “virtual microphone” that you can use to link audio from programs like OBS to a virtual microphone for video call software like Zoom or Meet.