Here are some links for you while you’re recovering from the 4th. Science first:

“Contrary to their expectations?” Really? Personal experience in science communication
The Scacco/Beber analysis of the Iranian election is bogus
Prehistoric bloodsucker in Thames
Evidence of fraud in the Iranian election – a reanalysis
It’s a good thing people in Brookline have something to eat beside potatoes
Other:
Shelter, or burden? The social benefits of home ownership look more modest than they did and the economic costs much higher
Smells like deflation
The Blogosphere 2.0