Time to Say Goodbye

I’m not prone to writer's block, like some journalists are. The words typically flow easily, sometimes too easily, and I end up with a story I have to chop to a manageable size.

It’s Thursday night as I write this, though, and for the first time in my 21 months with Darien Patch, I’m at a loss for words.

Friday is my last day with Darien Patch. This column is difficult to write because I’ve fallen so deeply in love with this community.

I feel different about Darien every day, just as a relationship with a husband or child evolves over time. Some days, I can’t stop giggling, like the time kindergartners wrote charming . Some days I want to say get it together, people, and stop . Most days I’m overwhelmed with admiration for the selflessness and vitality of the people who call Darien home.

Even though I’m leaving, I know you guys will keep making people laugh, setting things on fire and doing altruistic things for your friends and neighbors. Darien Patch will still be here to record every minute of it.

Starting Monday, Guest Editor Linda Ozbolt will be manning the ship. You’ve probably seen her name on Darien Patch before, as well as other Patch sites around the area.

As for me, I’m not going far. I’ve been promoted to associate regional editor at Patch and will oversee a territory that includes Darien. You can still reach me at lauren.williamson@patch.com. You’ll still see my name on the site from time to time. And you’ll definitely see me around town.

I wish I could write an individual thank you letter to every person who’s come along on this journey from Darien Patch’s launch date on Oct. 29, 2010, until today. I’m grateful for you, each one of you. You let me into your lives and you let me tell your stories. I can’t think of any greater gift in the world.