Does that headline sound familiar?
Elizabeth Large, our former food critic, was a mentor to me, so when it came time for me to step down from Midnight Sun I wanted to tip my hat to her.
Yes, after five years covering Baltimore's arts, music and nightlife scene, I am taking on a new role here at the paper: entertainment editor. Well, the actual title is something corporate-y, like Content Editor, Features Dept., but 'entertainment editor' sounds better to me.
No, this isn't my final post on Midnight Sun. I'll be phasing Erik in during the next week or two. I'll also be editing his stories. So you're not totally rid of me yet ...
Why would I possibly give up reviewing bars and clubs and interviewing musicians? As glamorous as this job sounds, I'm fried. Lately, I find myself putting too many commas in my copy. I think it's because my inner voice is tired and needs a rest.
Believe it or not, going out two or three times a week gets old after five years. I'm ready to start a new phase of my life, which I'm calling "couch time." I'll no longer be editing and publishing blog comments on my phone in the bathroom, at a restaurant or any other random times and places -- something Amie will appreciate, I'm sure.
I can't begin to tell you how much fun it's been hosting Midnight Sun. Nothing has helped me more as a writer than this here bloggy. Since Midnight Sun started three years ago, we've been stood up by Eddie Vedder, learned about Little Havana and the MIZOD and poked fun at some dude named Chris Sligh (I still chuckle when I think about Sligh). I've published more than 2,800 posts and approved more than 28,000 comments. And now that Erik's here, Midnight Sun will be in great hands.
I'll miss Midnight Sun, but more than writing, I'll miss the conversations we've had over the years.
I'm trying not to cry right now. It's hard.
Sniffle sniffle.
(Baltimore Sun photo of Happy Day Diner, because today is my happy day, by Gene Sweeney Jr.)