December 31 usually finds me taking stock of the old year and making resolutions for the new. This year is no exception. But there is a big difference. This year I actually kept one of my resolutions — I started a blog.

I’d thought about blogging for years, but last New Year’s was the first time I resolved to start one — and without the back-to-back blizzards we had in February, A Walker in the Suburbs might be just another “worry less” or “exercise more” — one of those good intentions I carry quietly into the next year.

But it wasn’t. And it has given me more than I could have hoped. After a career of writing for editors — and being an editor — this blog is blissfully editor-free. Well, almost. There’s still the little devil who sits on my shoulder and whispers in my ear: “Do you want to reveal so much?” or “How could you leave that out?” But even that bothersome editor, self doubt, is less intrusive than she used to be.

I started A Walker in the Suburbs not knowing where it would lead or even how often I would post. And it has surprised and encouraged me. Thanks to all of you who stop by this little corner of the blogosphere. May your resolutions come true, too.