Happy 1st Blog-iversary!

I can't believe it's been a whole year since I started writing Little Merry Sunshine!

Tim first put the crazy thought into my head that I should start a blog. And I laughed. But he was kind of persistent. And I laughed some more. But I chewed on it. For about 3 months or so. I have so many friends who write for a living and I couldn't imagine that anything I had to say would be nearly as pretty as their prose or that I'd have any readers, much less loyal readers. Of course, one of the many things I've learned this year is that if Tim suggests it, I should just do it without hesitation.

When I first began Little Merry Sunshine, it wasn't even open to the public. It was only open to Tim, Tony and Brad. And I emailed them and asked for their feedback. That's right, I asked a New York Times Best Selling Author to review my little blog before I published it to the world. I obviously have no ego problems. I'd forgotten that Tim and Tony were in Italy and incommunicado for 2 weeks, but within a couple of days, Brad wrote me back and said "It's you. It's your voice. And it's great." And so Little Merry Sunshine made its world debut.

You know that memorable quote from "Field Of Dreams" of "If you build it, they will come"? Well, that's exactly how's it's been this year. I built it and you showed up. And I'm humbled.

What started out as my way of sharing what I believe in, what inspires me, my gratitude list (here too), adventures in gardening, journeys down memory lane and amusing family stories (they're amusing to me and that's all that counts!) has turned into so much more. We all now know what scares me, what irritates me, what I asked Santa for (and Santa, I'm STILL waiting!), whom I endorse politically, my favorite things (never to be confused with Oprah's), my lust for Rick Springfield, and all of my shameless plugs for my favorite friends and family. I've even made some new friends thanks to blogging! And, of course, Betsey and Ross. Little Merry Sunshine (and I) wouldn't be complete without them.

What's in store for year number 2? While I can't know for sure exactly where life will take me and my blog, I do know a few things. For certain, the political commentaries will continue. It's a long way til November. The Cubs rock this year, so I'm sure to continue singing their praises. Look for more shameless plugs about my super cool friends too. Betsey and Ross are turning 12 this week. Other than that, the universe is my playground and I can't wait to continue sharing my take on it.

What I know for sure, however, is that without you reading and commenting, this wouldn't be so much fun for me. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts with me. I look forward to our continued dialogue in the new year!