Change is good

Today I said goodbye to my job as military beat writer with The Associated Press in Seattle. It's actually been 10 months since I left on maternity leave but my son and new job opportunities freelancing have slowly brought me to the conclusion that I can have it pretty darn close to both ways.
I credit the company, but most especially my AP colleagues who in the past seven years helped me grow as a writer and reporter. I will miss the day-to-day discussions and rants that so often occurred among what I considered to be one hell of a work family.
I would be lying if I didn't say I was a bit scared and sad to leave the people who accepted me, some begrudgingly, right out of college. It may have taken some time, but I'd like to think that with their tutelage I have turned into a fine journalist.
As I embark on this new journey it will be their advice and guidance I draw upon to continue improving in the craft I love.
This enormous change offers me new opportunities to explore my writing strengths and build on my weaknesses.
It also allows me more time to indulge in my other passion that is gardening. I hope to merge both work and play in some fashion that will only further my peace of mind.