Thursday, March 19, 2009

Seven Years

The events of this week reminded me in so many ways that this spring marks seven years since I became a journalist.

It was either late February or early March 2002 when I received my first assignment from the Marietta Times. It was a feature story on fathers and their involvement with their kids' school activities - specifically it featured firefighter and world-class dad Matt Hively.

It was months after that before I was hired on by the paper as a real, full-time reporter. It all started one story at a time. At that moment in my existence, writing for a living was only a dream - a chance I thought worth taking under desperate circumstances. I had a part-time job as a bookkeeper and two babies to figure out how to feed.

Now, writing has become a defining factor in my life.

This week I had the honor of attending the annual awards presented by the Marietta Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (or MAIFA). Much to my delight, Matt Hively was presented with the award for the Marietta Fire Department.

Needless to say, the occasion reminded me to be grateful for how far we've come since that first story.

Though there was a 20-month interruption in my journalistic endeavor during which I vigorously pursued a different track, somehow the writer in me - once awakened - couldn't be squelched.

It wasn't a journey without struggle or invention. When it all started, I didn't even have a car or a computer from which to work. That first story - and so many that followed - were sent from the computer of my dearest friend who patiently provided the resources so I could become what I wanted. There were so many rides, so much reading and editing, encouraging and provoking me, feeding my intellect, helping me find myself and develop my style.

I've been so fortunate to have so great a partner in Robert. Because of him, I've been able to pursue endeavors once far beyond my imagination. Though it had always been my desire to be published, finding my way so quickly was only partly nature. It had everything to do with the support I received all along the way.

So much of the recent coverage has had me reflecting on the past. The MAIFA awards. The annual chamber dinner. (The first one I covered for the Times in 2003 featured Rich Galen, former WMOA News Director, as the keynote speaker.) All of the C8 and ATSDR stuff (two of my longtime favorite environmental issues) and, of course, the onset of spring in the Mid Ohio Valley.

It amazes me how every year, just when you least expect it, suddenly one day it's clear that Spring is imminent. Sweet little daffodills are beginning to open their sleepy little eyes and dot the way up Harmar Hill to the station. I saw some pretty purple crocus on Seventh Street. It makes me love this time of year that's just about to be.

One more thing about the MAIFA awards before I leave this dreary winter behind us for good - the annual event always reminds me of Fire Chief Ted Baker. And, with good reason. Three years ago I attended the event and as we enjoyed our cherry pie together we chatted about his photography hobby, his family and his plans for retirement. He was special to me and I was very fond of him. Sadly, that was my last chance to visit with Ted, but I've always been so thankful for that particular luncheon - and that final opportunity to cherish a friend.