I was idly searching for something on my blog yesterday when I realised that I had nearly forgotten that Random was now ten years old. I had logged on to read my very first post (the World Cup was taking place and David Beckham was captain) and I noticed that I had started writing in 2006. Where have the years gone I ask?
I cannot let this anniversary go by without writing, not to blow my own trumpet or ask for presents or champagne (though if you wish to send them then do not let me stop you.....), but to say a huge Thank You to everyone who has visited, read and commented on my ramblings throughout this time.
You have seen me through births, deaths, marriages, moves, highs and lows and I can honestly say that I could not have managed all this time without you. The kindness and humour and wit of Random readers is quite astounding. When I began I certainly did not envisage that I would still be going ten years later, be the recipient of review books, have shed loads of contacts at publishers, be attending seminars and helping organise a book festival, but all this has happened. I have made friends all over the world and some of you have become friends who I now meet in person, not just on the internet, and have forged relationships and it has all enriched my life.
I love the fact that when I rant about the England Cricket Team or get pissed off at the sight of Pippa bloody Middleton lording it at Wimbledon, you laugh or argue with me about it. I love the fact that you want to hear all about my grandchildren and what geniuses they are (well they are), or listen to my views on Strictly Come Dancing and all the other daft things I write about. I meet many of you on Facebook as well and we swap even more chat and comments. The internet has its share of nasty little trollish people but I can honestly say (apart from one rabid cricket supporter in the comments sections of the Guardian who has called me a gin soaked dodderer) that I have ever met with any nastiness at all.
So my thanks and here is to the next Ten Years if I should last that long..
