And so it must come to an end.

It was an honor to face the competition and if I were completely malicious, I'd start to spread an "American Idol" rumor about a re-count and sketchy voting, but the final four are stellar bloggers. (Seriously, .01 off the final four?)

They say there is no glory in second place, but I'm thrilled with my 5^th place finish, considering I was the 19^th contender.

Before it's all said and done, I need to send some words of thanks out to my partners-in-crime: ScarletnGray, Bafongu, MeanDovine, Gbrent, and Dudski. The first three were mighty fine editors and provided much critical feedback and the last two were my amigos who also slipped in under the radar and I just hold a special place in my heart for them.

Thanks to everyone who voted on the blog, but most importantly, thanks to all the people who took the time to read my opinion. I always enjoyed reading your comments and I hope to write some more thought-provoking pieces soon. My postings might be sporadic this summer, but I'll be back in full force for football season!

I leave you with my swan-song, or better yet, my theme song: Brown Eyed Girl

So hard to find my way,
Now that I'm all on my own.
I saw you just the other day,
My how you have grown,
Cast my memory back there, Lord
Sometime I'm overcome thinking 'bout
Making love in the green grass
Behind the stadium with you
My brown eyed girl
You my brown eyed girl

-Belle of the Ball