You didn’t ask for it, but Hiding in Plain Sight is my gift to you and the internet at large. Publishing here is rewarding in its own right, but the real joy comes when we stumble onto something together and get to chat about it. Those shared discoveries, and the conversations that follow, are what make this blog come alive! Unfortunately, I need to step back for a while. Don’t worry, though- new posts will continue to go live every morning.

We’ve officially made it past the halfway mark of 2025, and I’ve got some fun news to share: this blog has already outpaced last year’s views and readership by a wide margin. I’m stunned that so many of you have found my oddball fascinations worth a click! Still, in the spirit of a good, old-fashioned pledge drive, I figured it was time for a quick update on your generous support. We can address the tote bags later.

WordPress just informed me that today is my 800-somethingth consecutive day of posting. Honestly, I’m a little surprised. I thought I’d hit a wall after covering most of the courthouses and schoolhouses I’ve visited, but inspiration keeps showing up when I least expect it! Still, a few big projects remain simmering on the back burner awaiting their turn. I’m frustrated I haven’t finished them yet, but here’s a sneak peek at what’s in the works for 2025.

A few personal milestones have recently come and gone. In August, I marked a year since my hernia operation by scratching a phantom itch where my belly button used to be. This past Monday, I celebrated two years with my current employer. Today, it’s been two years since I started my blog! While part of me is thrilled to reach these milestones, another is finding it hard to muster continued enthusiasm. I’m sure things will change!