Writing the Editor's Note is not one of my usual tasks. That doesn't mean I haven't threatened on more than one occasion to write it, but since that usually provoked screams in the editorial halls, this is the first time I've actually made good on the threat. Despite the March cover date, this is the first issue published in 2004 and in keeping with new beginnings for a new year, this will be my last issue as Editor-in-Chief. Having accomplished what I set out to do in leading MSDN Magazine, I am taking a break from deadlines and moving on to explore new challenges. But I couldn't pass up the opportunity to take one last trip down memory lane and along the way share a little of the passion I feel for the publications I've nurtured.

In the spring of 1987 I joined a fledgling publication called MSJ, which was the first developer-focused publication from Microsoft. Joining the publication, and Microsoft itself, immersed me in a world unlike anything I'd ever experienced. I had a lot to learn as I plunged into the esoteric world of software development. I discovered almost immediately that developers are a unique group who are always ardent about their work and who demand accurate, straightforward information.

Starting as a production editor on MSJ, I never would have imagined that almost 17 years later I would be Editor-in-Chief of MSDN Magazine. It has been an amazing journey—from the hardcore systems programming that characterized MSJ to the launch of the Internet-focused MIND to the merger of the two magazines to create MSDN Magazine—providing developers with a quality publication was and still is the guiding principle.

From Windows to .NET and to the future that is Longhorn and Yukon, the advances in technology have always been fascinating to cover as we have delved deep into current and emerging development tools and platforms. Being at the epicenter of the technology explosion was an experience I wouldn't have traded for anything in the world. Along the way I've had the great privilege of working with industry leaders, many of whom have graced the magazines' pages with their expertise.

A magazine is only as good as the sum of its parts and this magazine is no exception. Behind the scenes there is an enormous amount of energy that goes into each and every issue. Josh strives to provide cutting edge material, while the editorial team of Nancy, Tony, Joan, Joan, and Steve meticulously edit every piece of content, and Etya keeps us all on our toes by guaranteeing that deadlines are met. The creativity of Amy and Carlos under Val's eagle eye ensures that the magazine is as high caliber visually as it is editorially. John keeps the Web site in tip-top shape. And we couldn't close an issue without the support of Jay and Bobby. No detail is too small and no challenge too big for this intrepid team. And I'd be remiss if I didn't also take my hat off to Kerry and her team at CMP for consistently keeping MSDN Magazine a market leader.

While saying goodbye is always hard to do, I leave knowing that MSDN Magazine is a special publication that has a proud history behind it and a bright future ahead. In my absolutely unbiased opinion, it is the best of the best!