I began writing a family-oriented column for one of our local newspapers in 2003. Called The Family Room, my column tackled any and all issues related to families and people who cared for kids.
Here I am taking a rest with Tavia, Bella, Max and Tucker on a family vacation, around the time I stopped writing for the newspaper.
Here’s a more recent shot of my “Four Mouseketeers” from another vacation:
Check out some of my favorite columns:
Within two short years, my column had evolved from one about strictly family-oriented, local topics to one that appealed to many other folks with varying interests. With readers in Australia, Alaska, and British Columbia, my weekly musings were traveling fast. I wanted to continue growing the readership, but that meant outgrowing the original mission of the column.
So, in 2006, I moved my column to our other local paper and changed its title to reflect the broader readership I’d gained over the years. The Front Porch ran for two weeks, when I decided to move it to a blog. I did this because what I write is sometimes controversial, and my newspaper editors didn’t want to rock the boat. Rather than abandon topics I felt needed addressing, I simply moved to a new location.
The Front Porch can now be found at www.leave-the-light-on.blogspot.com. Join me and my loyal readers there when you have a moment. Discussions are lively and you’re sure to find something to make you laugh or drive you nuts. It’s all good.
What Readers Say
Readers who’ve liked what I’ve had to say over the years have taken the time to tell me so:
Once again, you seem to have peeked into my heart and read the troubling things written there. Having seen first-hand at school the results of unwanted pregnancy, I have tried to explain this issue using these terms many times, but never seem to do the argument justice. Do you know how much I admire your ability to put words on paper, words that touch my heart, lift the corners of my mouth, and make me wish my memory were better so that the next time I need them, I could remember your thoughts exactly? Thank you for another great column. – Wendy
Once again, you are a hero at Windsor High School… I have once again put your article on the Lounge refrigerator and I have made copies of the article for my teacher friends that live out of town. Thanks for your support. – Jim
I just had to write you this time to commend you for yet another wonderful piece of work in the Tribune. Every week I look forward to reading your stories. Often, I find my own thoughts and feelings on family and life in general right there in print. I’ve been known to comment aloud and mumble in agreement as I’m reading. It is reassuring to know that I am not alone in how I think and in what I believe (or don’t believe). – Jen
My husband and I are thrilled that your column is now on the front page of the Windsor Tribune! You are so right on with your thoughts. This morning’s subject is so important and you said it like it is. Hopefully, the parents who really need to read it and take it to heart…do. – Ann
So do the readers who disagree with me (but continue to read my column anyway):
Columnists like you are why I will not spend the money to get the paper the rest of the week. – Jeremy
