I've been doing this now since 8th March 2003 so have written a daily account every day for more than three years.

In the spirit of continuity, I stand by the same principles as ever - no hiding, no flinching and no compromise.

This time around though, I feel the need to say that just because I write here every day, don't think you know me because you don't. You know what I choose to tell.

I'm always happy that so many people read my daily postings and have made a whole bunch of really wonderful friends through this forum. I wouldn't change that for the world nor would I want to stop anyone else from visiting these pages. I welcome new readers and I welcome comments - if you want to leave a message, please do, but I'd like you to tell me who you are and how you found me.

What's less good has been the little band of 'guests' who are quick to point out my shortcomings without even considering that they are hiding behind a facade themselves. So, that's the reason for the title of this year's gallery....as always from a song.

This time, it's 'Walking in my Shoes' (on the link is an old photo from 2004 with the lyrics to the song in my 'Capturing Songs' gallery) by the utterly magnificent Depeche Mode and this is a quote from it....

"Now I’m not looking for absolution
Forgiveness for the things I do
But before you come to any conclusions
Try walking in my shoes"

I feel sure that as they said 'you'll stumble in my footsteps' just like I do on a regular basis and just like I will continue to do.

So, to 2006 - let's hope it's a good one!

You can see last year's diary here then 2004...and the one from 2003 here.

You can find out what's going on in my life in 2007 here!