It’s that time again — when we prepare to ring in the new by celebrating the best of the past year. So this week, we give you some of our favorite stories from 2006.

Originally published on 6/13/06

Little known historical tidbit: Cowgirls absolutely love cheese.

Which may explain why Annie Oakley once accepted full payment in gouda. Or why Calamity Jane killed a man for a wedge of brie.

Another event that’s sure to warrant notice on the time lines: The opening of Cowgirl Creamery in our nation’s capital.

The beloved cheese shop from the Wild West (okay, San Francisco) has set up camp in its owners’ hometown — Sue Conley and Peggy Smith are actually D.C. natives. And they’ve brought their knowledge, cheer, and good cheese with them.

The new outpost offers all manner of artisanal and farmstead cheese from local, national, and international farms. They have everything from Abbaye de Belloc to Humboldt Fog to Pecorino Ginepro to Vermont Shepherd. There’s also charcuterie, bread, wine, and anything else that goes well with fromage.

The friendly and informed staff will happily answer all of your questions about milk, taste, texture, or whatever you need to know.

So you’ll be prepared as you ride off into the sunset.

Cowgirl Creamery, 919 F Street NW, between 9th and 10th Streets (202-393-6880).