When I started writing this column in 2005, I had no clue what I was going to write. My first column even hacked off a few people. Many times as my deadline was fast approaching, I sat down at the keyboard with no ideas. Usually a mug of Pinot Noir solved the problem… OK. Maybe it was two mugs.
For the past few months, I’ve been thinking I was back where I was then. In October I announced that I was looking for someone to take over the column January 1, 2014.
Then the offers came with ideas for my replacement as well as encouragement from readers to keep writing. Gerry Heide was the only person to actually send me a sample, which I will be running in the near future. He also doesn’t like to shop with his wife at Gloria’s Secrets.
I also met with my editors, Stephanie and Tim, to discuss some of the candidates. My editors think some people on the list might be reluctant to take on the monthly responsibility of a column. I can certainty appreciate that train of thought. So I had another new bright idea.
They liked it. Now I’m asking people who wish to write a column now-and-then to send it to me. Even if you think you can’t write a column, just send me an idea for a column. I’ll take it from there.
Longtime readers know I’m pretty good at stretching ideas until they become sophomorically amusing. Facts getting in my way of a column went out the window during my firstever attempt at writing.
Now I’m re-energized. I can hardly wait for your amusing ideas. If I get enough I’ll even contribute midmonth columns to Tim’s electronic version of PN that I can read on my smart phone. He’s doing a bang-up job and you should definitely check it out.
Season’s greetings. Now I’m set for the New Year. Adios ya’ll.