Steemstem has been a life changing force in my life. I started on steemit with no clear idea of what I would write about, picked pop science, and was noticed by @lemouth, who was generous with his time and knowledge.

I'd always enjoyed mycology, but never had the drive to really dive into the hobby. But writing with steemstem's standards in mind, I have learned more in the last five months about the study of fungi and related organisms than I did in the five years prior. It's pushed me to get involved with the local mycological society and even inspired me to join, and helped pay for, a 2 week mycological foray to Chile this Spring with globally renowned professional mycologists.

This may sound a bit trite - I know I've mentioned it a few times to a few people - but this blog, and steemstem support, have turned my worst compulsive habits into something more productive. Steemstem has stimulated an intellectual curiousity in me I never knew existed.

I'm so excited to be able to meet the steemstem gang - and at the LHC and CMS no less?! If steemit were to disappear immediately after that visit - (no whammies) - I would have nothing to complain about. Steemstem is responsible for crossing something off my bucket list!

I can't wait to see what 2018 has in store. Looking forward to the creation of an official community, as well as several other awesome possibilities in this post. And the move to include non-english speakers is a great step.

There's a great team working behind the scenes on the steemstem project and I have no doubt they will continue to push the project to new heights. Thank for a great 2017!