It has been a while since my byline has graced these pages, and the reason for that is I have seen some interesting changes in my life, including where I live.

When I realized I had to move, I was concerned that I would have to leave Ballard. Luckily for me, I found myself a great living situation in a part of Ballard that I discovered is nicknamed Stumbletown.

Stumbletown is apparently the part of Ballard centered around Eighth Avenue Northwest and Northwest 65th Street, with the center of commerce being the bars and the Goodwill that has to be the busiest one on the entire planet.

The neighborhood was given the Stumbletown moniker by my girlfriend in reference to the large amount of bars that are clustered along the flat part of 65th as you go up the hill.

I have also heard a historical rumor that this area was much rowdier once upon a time when one of the trolley lines from Seattle ended here and took Seattleites who needed a drink on Sundays to the good old City of Ballard.

You could even make the case that the incredibly steep incline 65th takes as it heads towards Phinney Ridge could quite literally cause one to stumble.

Whatever the origin of the name, I think it’s a pretty awesome nickname for a pretty awesome corner of Ballard.

I had become so used to my former area of Ballard, where everything is within walking distance. Stumbletown is still within walking distance of Central Ballard, but is a destination in itself for those with discerning taste.

All I know is I’m thankful that I got to stay in Ballard. It was touch-and-go for a while, and while I’m sure I could have easily found a place somewhere else, I wanted to stay in Ballard.

I probably would have had to give up writing this column that I enjoy writing so much. That, or pretend I was still living here while writing it in Columbia City.

When I started this column, I wanted to do my best to stay positive. It is easy to be negative, especially these days, and especially when you write a column.

Being more controversial would certainly get more hits, but that is not what I am looking to do. I want to write a column where I bring things up about Ballard, but in a constructive way.

Taking some time away from writing it as well as almost leaving Ballard brought that home to me.

In 2010, I hope to create more columns that add some insight and fun to the virtual pages of this venerable newspaper. I have a lot of column ideas floating around underneath my viking helmet and I hope that you continue to read them!

Do you have a column suggestion or a comment for Brian Le Blanc? Leave a comment on this story or reach him directly at brianleblanc76@yahoo.com.