Today marks The Map Room’s second anniversary. There have been more than 460 entries since my first; during that time I’ve learned just how much there is out there about which I know nothing, from psychogeography to triangulation to geocaching.

I’ve put together some narcissistic self-aggrandizing special features to mark this occasion. Well, not exactly special, but it seemed an opportune time to bring them up. First, an autobiographical essay that explains why I got interested in maps in the first place. Second, a reader survey — I’d like to know a little bit more about my readers. And third, a brazen attempt at money-grubbing: a little fundraising campaign with the aim of paying my hosting bills.

Enjoy, or, at the very least, endure. Regular programming to resume shortly.