Ok this may be completely old news, but while doing some research on getting a new tether, er, cell phone I came across this little goodie:
GM862 Cellular Quad Band Module with Python Interpreter
Description: Welcome to the wonderful world of M2M (Machine-to-Machine) communication with the GM862 Quad Band Python Cellular Module by Telit. This tiny module will allow you to connect your embedded device anywhere in the world where cell phones are used. This version (GM862-QUAD-PYT) is compatible with the various 850/900/1800/1900MHz frequencies of cellular networks across the globe.
This is the recently released Python programmable GM862 module from Telit. Now you can harness all the power of the GM862 without the need for an external microcontroller. Simple Python programs can be loaded onto the GM862 controlling the GPIOs and issuing global cellular commands. Pin compatible module with upgraded internal memory for user programs.
Now to channel Zippy: "I can now MANIPULATE the RADIO WAVES with LIST COMPREHENSIONS."
Also the Spark Fun Electronics makes me wish that I had much more time and money to mess around with hardware.
