May 18, 2004 was the day my life changed.
It was my first day on the job as a reporter at the High River Times. On that day, I could never have imagined the experiences and opportunities that would come my way over the next 14 years, first at the Times and then at the Western Wheel for the last 10-and-a-half years.
I have been truly fortunate to be able to tell the stories of the Foothills and the people who call it home.
However, I have had a new opportunity come my way and this will be my last issue as editor of the Western Wheel.
I am going back to school. I will be moving to Toronto to pursue an MBA.
It’s a big change, moving across the country, going back to school and turning the page on a whole new chapter in life.
It’s all a little daunting at times when I think about it. But, as a friend told me when I first started down this path, “do it now.” When opportunity knocks, you must answer. He also said, “don’t be too old, don’t be unemployed and don’t be divorced.” No pressure.
I will miss the Foothills. I’ve been incredibly lucky to call, first, High River then Okotoks home. I will miss all the people I’ve come to know and the friendships I’ve made.
And, I will miss working at the Western Wheel. It has been fulfilling and rewarding and I have learned a lot, both as a reporter and editor.
So many people have opened their homes, their businesses, their families and their lives to me over the last 14 years. It has been a privilege and an honour.
I have also been lucky to have had some wonderful mentors and leaders over the years. Thank you Bruce, John, Paul and Matt. I learned a lot working for you, and with you. To the editorial team, and the rest of the staff at the Western Wheel, it has been a pleasure working with you all and I wish you and the Western Wheel good fortunes.
Jess and I will miss Okotoks and all the friendships we’ve made. For those of you we weren’t able to see before we leave, hopefully our paths will cross again.
I will remember April 18, 2018, the date of this issue, as the day my life changed once again.
It’s time again for a new adventure.
