> But, would you write code if you had a billion dollars?

Probably. I enjoy writing code and the challenges associated with designing a solution. If I had unlimited money (meaning I didn't have to work), I would probably write code in my spare time. I do think that it is fun.

> You really can't be a REALLY good programmer without side projects where you get to play around with new technologies, with no deadlines, no managers, no infrastructure, just exploration.

Guess I'll never be one of those really good programmers for the rest of my life. I do like to program, but I have a laundry list of hobbies that doesn't consist of programming. I already do it for a living 40 hours a week.