So, the resolution to write more frequently did not really materialize. There are too many other less interesting distractions. But it’s a good time to glance back before forging ahead. I started with no thought of money (or rather funds, as scientists seem to call it), generously helped by supportive colleagues. Then joined the mainstream, wrote network projects (as the funding agency calls them) and now it was funds galore. Oh, but like Cinderella there was a deadline…when the clock strikes midnight the carriage will turn to a pumpkin and the funds will all vanish. So dutifully, we stuffed our freezers and emptied our pockets. Then you are told, go play with your existing toys, no new toys for you for six months. The fairy godmother visits but rarely. So, until then we shall do predictable research, and dream of all those ‘urgent’ experiments. I started with one student who had accidentally strayed into my web. Now I have a team of 10 assorted students. I started with ...