One year ago today, I had a vague goal; to channel my middle-age angst into championing all that I love in pop culture and goofing on all the stuff that I don’t.

I was hoping I’d find enough people who felt the same way.

I told myself I’d give it a year. If I’d made some headway into making this less of a hobby and more of a vocation, then I’d keep going.

Well I’m happy to say, that I’m ready to continue. The response I’ve had with SLIS has been exciting, humbling and most importantly, a lot of fun.

I had a learning curve;  WordPress is at once daunting and pleasantly challenging. My OCD nature can sometimes cause me to freak out if one detail isn’t working out like I want it to (apologies for subscribers who got that ‘test’ email yesterday…it was one of those days ).

But I fuss over this blog, because I’m a perfectionist, who wants to make something cool. I’m writing a blog that I’d like to read, and I’m relieved that I wasn’t the only one !

But it’s been more than worth it. Every time I get a new subscriber, or see how many hits I get in a given day, it’s gratifying.

So thank you, to all who keep reading, commenting, and spreading the word to friends, facebook, twitter, pinterest, etc. You have provided vast encouragement on days that I get tired, unsure of myself or lose perspective.

And thanks to all who support my sponsors. Every penny helps to keep this site running and is appreciated.

I wanted to give everyone a glimpse of what’s to come this year. In addition to my reviews, and best of/worst of lists, I’m excited about some new features in the works:

• More interviews; my interview last week with The Church’s Steve Kilbey was the biggest highlight for me since I started blogging. Talking to one of my favorite musicians was amazing, and the positive feedback has been awesome.

So now I’m emboldened to chat up other alt-rock icons, cult film legends and other pop culture luminaries. I already have a short list, so except more interviews in the months ahead.

• Podcasts: Still figuring out the logistics, but I hope to have this up and running later this year.  I think it’ll be a fun addition, and a chance to give this 2 fingered typist a rest. A video blog is another possibility.

• Merch: Look for some Smells Like Infinite Sadness T-shirts later this year after I test some designs and materials. Perhaps I’ll think of some other items as well (feel free to suggest!)

• Polls/Contests: I’m working on some ideas for trivia quizzes and polls over various pop culture conundrums.

And don’t forget, you can subscribe to my blog via email or RSS Feed (just look in the top righthand corner.)

And you can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

So thanks again, and check back next week when I’ll be reviewing the new Suede album and starting up some new lists!

And if you have other ideas for things you’d like me to cover on the site, feel free to comment below.