I recall that one night I spent on the Whois website checking Internet names that were available. I remembered the first one I tried was gardenfriends. It was already taken and I was deeply disappointed. I then tried to remember words that were synonymous with friends. There were many but none had the appeal like Gardenbuddies.

This last year was an exciting one and I believe a learning experience for all. I know it was for me. None of this would have been possible if it wasn’t for contributors like Carolyn and Gardenbug with their monthly articles. I am amazed how each month they come up with interesting stories that captures our mind and sole. I am also very grateful for some behind the scene help that Monique and Nibbs provided to Gardenbuddies each month. Not to be forgotten are the Photo of the Month judges for their dedication to viewing and choosing just one photo from all the great ones posted. This must have been a tough job.

Looking forward to the upcoming year, I see some exciting changes happening. First, Carolyn is turning over her job as the writer for “Your Corner: The Place Where Your Garden is Published “ to a new writer who’s name shall be secret until December’s issue. This will allow Carolyn to expand on the monthly bird feature and to contribute to the design and layout of her write up.

Country Jim will pass the ring as one of the Photo of the Month judges. Starting this month we now have 4 judges in place. Three judges, unknown to each other, will select one photo each month. Those 3 photos will be given to judge number 4 for the final selection. Only the photo itself and not the author will be submitted to judge number 4.

I would like to take this time to also thank all the Gardenbuddies that submitted special feature article through out the year. Your expertise in your writings shall provide us reading enjoyment and knowledge every time they are viewed.

There is a new writer starting in this month’s issue who I think we can all agree as a flare when it comes to writing. I for one have read his November’s article a half dozen times and after this issue is out I plan on reading it again. Welcome Ian!

Two last notes, I know Carolyn is formalizing the judges for the Feathered Buddies Photo of the Month and I look forward to their choices. And after a self battle with what to do with the bee at the bottom of each issue, I have decided, she doesn’t know yet, to call this feature “Mary, Mary, How does your garden grow?” You will just have to click on the bee to see the rest.

In closing I would like to thank each one of you for your contributions in the forums. After all, when it comes right down to it, you are the reason we all come here. Your eagerness to help and teach others. Your genuine concern for your fellow Gardenbuddy. Your willingness to let us view your personal life whether it be happy or sad. I look forward to continuing this in the years ahead.