javascript can be refreshing

In addition to CSS, much of the UI work I do involves writing javascript. Lately, though, it feels like that’s all I’ve been doing. There was a time when I’d cringe at the thought of raw javascript, but with libraries such as prototype.js, jQuery, mootools, YUI, script.aculo.us, Dojo, Behaviour, and a few others, writing javascript these days isn’t so bad. In fact, anymore, I actually enjoy it.

Aside from work, I’m building an application that Amie needs to execute her thesis tests. It requires a fast, responsive front-end, and needs access to the server, too. Needless to say, it’s almost entirely ajaxified. I’m using prototype to back me up. So, between this and work, I’m knee-deep in javascript. (In retrospect, this may have been a nice opportunity to try out camping.)

One would think being forced to write code in languages other than my favorite(s) would be disappointing; but it’s all in the perspective. In a way, taking a break from the code I love to write (i.e. Ruby) is refreshing. Although, I often try to write javascript that resembles Ruby (prototype makes that easy to do), but that’s why it’s refreshing. I develop other ways of thinking and can appreciate Ruby/Rails even more along the way—it’s a double whammy. On a side note, I can see how writing a javascript framework could become very addicting… maybe that’s why there are nearly 250 of them.