In writing my blog profile, I've omitted a huge chunk of my life. Actually, my other side is too complicated for 'about me.' And, it also fits under 'what I write' and 'hobbies.'

In addition to being a journalist, I'm also an activist. While those may sound like conflicts, in my early days of reporting the news, I worked very hard to maintain a professional separation. It was one of the most dificult things I've ever done.

In September, 1988 I became a correspondent for a daily newspaper that published my first story. But, one month prior, I was instrumental in starting an organization to fight a new airport proposed in our state. Ten years later I became employed by that newspaper. I gave up the activist role - my choice. Due to unrelated abuse by an editor, I quit two years later. I became a reporter/editor for the local weekly paper which proudly displayed a 'no airport' logo above the masthead. This job allowed me the freedom to practice what I consider more honest reporting, because it was a better fit for me. It encouraged me to take on more of an advocacy role. I sincerely believe the thing will never be built for so many reasons, but basically because if it had merit, it would already have been built.

When my husband retired three years ago, we moved away. After six months of not writing, I was called by my former editor who asked me to continue writing. I jumped at the chance. So, I still write stories on this and other issues from 600 miles away.

This project will make an interesting book one day. In fact, I've written the first chapter. I can't wait to write it because I'm really looking forward to reading it. If only it were that easy!