His back played him up, so at the beginning of each visit I humped hessian sacks of food and wine through the garden from his ancient M.

NEWYORKER: Hand on the Shoulder

And just as I'm impressed by these signs of China's journey to the 21st century, I'm eager to see those ancient places that speak to us from China's distant past.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Holds Town Hall with Chinese Youth

Yes, it's the 42nd Super Bowl Sunday, Super Bowl 42 or XLII as it was in ancient Rome, where professional football began, I'm led to believe.

NPR: Really Important Football Game Coming

After some idle chatter (we have known each other for longer than we might care to admit), she zeroes in on what I'm wearing, identifying it within seconds as somewhat ancient designer clobber.

WSJ: Tina Gaudoin on Style: How to Wear Topshop Past 25

Secretary-General Kofi Annan was due to attend a signing ceremony at 4 p.m. (1400 GMT) Saturday at the site of the ancient Roman Capitol.

CNN: International war-crimes court approved

I'm just as fascinated in new, cutting edge food innovations as I am in ancient culinary techniques.

FORBES: Connect