Back to regular business with my return to North Carolina. This month's Session is “What will I miss from 2008 and what will I excitedly await in 2009?”

First 2008, I think the biggest thing I will miss is my regular spots those fortunate places you can rest your hat and the bartender greets you by name when you walk in the door. I was fortunate to see a couple of them in the last week and while they don't remain exactly the same, it's always fun to visit the old haunts.

But for what I look forward to in 2009 is I have found new places to hang my hat and made some friends along the way. I also had the great chance to discover great new beers, well in many cases, new to me. The move to North Carolina has opened a door to trying all new beer experiences. I look forward to a year of writing, exploring and sampling the best the South has to share. Frankly I think I have barely scratched the surface.

In 2009 I'd like to explore the North Carolina's breweries, festivals, and the people behind the beer. Asheville in particular stands high on that list from all I hear from people. I remember tasting Weeping Radish at an East Coast mini-GABF in the 1990s and haven't had a chance to visit them or try their beers yet. Likewise Duck Rabbit makes great beers, but I haven't found my way out to their brewery. So I look forward to exploring my new home more in 2009, the fun really is just beginning.