I have had trouble writing columns before, but this one might be the most difficult.

This is my last as the editor of the Stoney Creek News. By the time you read this, I will be settled into a new job, in at the other end of the city.

To say this was a difficult decision is an understatement (just ask my husband about the tears, anxiety and mind-changing that went on for days). I have always considered myself lucky because I enjoy coming to work each day. I like my co-workers and I like what I do. But after a decade here, I have decided it is time for a new challenge.

I have accepted a position as senior reporter with www.yourhamiltonbiz.com. This is a new, online-only, business publication. It will deliver daily, Hamilton-specific business news. I am looking forward to getting out  from behind my desk and reporting again, and to writing more.

When I started at the Stoney Creek News as a reporter in 2003,  I was a newlywed and new to Hamilton. Since then, my husband and I have celebrated our 10-year anniversary and we have a beautiful German Shorthaired Pointer and the two most wonderful children, ages 4 and 2.

I became editor in 2006. I have loved working with everyone in this building, especially those in editorial. I am proud of the work we do, which has been recognized numerous times by provincial, national and North America-wide awards for excellence. And we have a pretty good time doing it too.

I would like to thank my managing editors, beginning with Mark Cripps, who shared with me his love for this community and helped me gain the confidence to become editor. Rod Jerred taught me new things about layout and managed us with kindness and humour.

Most recently, acting managing editor Brenda Jefferies has brought new enthusiasm to the newsroom and a readiness for a good chat at any time. I am sorry we worked together for only a short time.

For almost as long as I have been editor, my reporter has been Laura Lennie. Laura made it a pleasure to come to work each day. She truly cares about the people she meets and those reading them – and it comes through in her work.  Laura`s enthusiasm is only matched by her talent. It didn`t take long – whether it was right or wrong with me as her boss -for Laura and I to become friends. And I trust that our friendship will continue.

What I will miss most is working for this community. It was an honour to be invited into your homes and to share your stories. Stoney Creek has such wonderful people who devote their time to improving this city and helping others. It was truly a privilege to work with you.

It is hard to leave, but I look forward to reading the Stoney Creek News each week. I know, no matter what,  I will always think of it as “my” paper.