A Year of Phantom Observing

I browse the vast domain of the Web, seeking knowledge and enlightenment. From time to time I will observe the peculiarities and eccentricities of human endeavour, and I will post my observations here.

My observations can be on any subject I choose -- that is the beauty of the web log. You may agree, or disagree, and that is your right. But my observations are always thought out after much deliberation. This is not wisdom, but only a path to it.

I claim no special knowledge or expertise. My passions and politics will be obvious to those with careful observation. I speak only with one voice -- my own, untainted by diplomatic nicety or correctness.

I wrote that passage, one year ago. Time really has flown, hasn't it?

In that time, I've quit one job, spent two months working on animation, a few weeks at a part-time job which paid too little and been re-hired at a better salary. I've learned to use new software programs for animation and drawing. I've had my cholesterol level reviewed, ignored, reviewed again and lectured about. I've made trips to places I've never been before. I've turned 40, and I'm still waiting for the so-called "mid-life crisis" to strike. I've built up a DVD and manga library that's a geek's pride and joy and an accountant's despair ("why did you spend so much money on these?").

And during all that time, I've kept this blog going.

Being a blogger has, I supposed, changed me. I've met new friends via the NCR Blog Mafia, and been able to engage in conversations I wouldn't've thought possible. I've been able to practice skills that have enhanced my abilities as an information specialist. I've learned to hyperlink, to photoblog, to seek out Primary Sources where I know they exist. In other words, I'm not the person I was a year ago, and much of the credit (or blame) goes to blogging.

I've tried to carve out a niche, of sorts. I've probably paid more attention to the Parliamentary web site than most people on the Blogging Tories blogroll, and attempted to highlight the MPs on the backbench as well as the ministers in the headlines. I've also gotten more busy with my digital camera and graphics tablet to produce photos and cartoons just for posting here.

I may not be as prolific as Angry. Nor as technically proficient with computers as Andrew. But I believe I've contributed something of value to the Canadian conversation.

I don't know what the future holds, or if The Phantom Observer will still be observing in September 2007. But there's only one way to find out, isn't there?

Stay tuned.