A blog is a place to share observations and ideas in a way that is less formal than forum discussions or editorials. It is more like having a conversation with a friend.

In that spirit, I have to say that I feel lucky to live here. Last year I was diagnosed with – and defeated – Hodgkin Lymphoma. During my treatments and recovery the people of this community supported me with prayers, kind words and other gifts (like yummy Lucky Penny Cookies). My follow-up scans have shown a problem area in my hip socket, and I continue to see specialists to figure out what is wrong with my bone. So far, so good – no cancer.

There are only three of us who work at The Baudette Region, so when a doctor schedules an appointment for me, it changes the way we have to do business. When any one of us is gone, the other two have to fill in. I am extremely lucky to have Cindy Olson and Jeff Hovde to back me up. They have been incredible support to me at the Region, but more importantly as friends.

The three of us continue to work together to make this newspaper, and now our website, what you as the reader wants to see. We welcome your suggestions and we thank you for your understanding during this past year.