welcome

Welcome to my new blog! I actually meant to roll 'her' out on January 1, but it took me a little longer than expected to actually create a three-column blog layout. But I finally did and I am really happy with the results.

Some of you are probably wondering why I have made the change from 'A Brit and his Grits'. Well, since I am now back in the US, I wanted a fresh start in a new home on the web. 'A Brit and his Grits' is the story of my UK adventure, and the blog will remain live, but this is where I will continue my everyday ramblings.

And now to introduce you to 'A Different Bird'. I chose the name as a nod to my stay in the UK. 'Bird' in British-speak means a woman (well, with other connotations that I choose to ignore), and I truly believe I am a different kind of bird. But aren't all women? And that lovely pigeon? Well, her photo was taken during my visit to Bath, England, which you can read all about right here. And you can see a full picture of the poor creature, who was actually missing a couple of toes.

On the left, you will find an about me section, a way to contact me, my virtual bookshelf at http://www.goodreads.com/ (and if you aren't signed up on that site please do so, and add me as a friend - it's a great tool for bookworms like me) and a list of blogs that I frequent.

On the right, you will find my New Year's project! I am very excited about this. If you click on THE 108 IN 2008 you will go to another blog, where I have listed 108 new things (or things I haven't done in a while) that I would like to achieve in 2008. That page will be updated frequently (I hope!), so please check back there often. Also on the right are links to some very good charitable sites - ways for you to help worthy causes that don't cost you anything but a moment of your time - and, of course, my archives and list of post topics.

And if you made it this far, thank you for taking the time to find out a bit more about me over the past couple of years. It's a bit cliche, but it's been quite a ride. I've really enjoyed having this creative outlet on the web - kind of like my virtual scrapbook - and your feedback has been much appreciated and is always welcome.

So, please update your blogrolls and blog feeds, because there is a new bird in town. Ugh. I actually said it.