One Year at SL!

It’s officially been one year since I took over as Smart Living editor from my mentor and friend, Janine Pumilia. I think it’s important to recognize milestones, particularly because they make for great opportunities to reflect.

To be honest, I’m not a Rockford native. My journey here began in 2015, and despite the negative sentiments that some people hold against Rockford, my experience here has been overwhelmingly positive. There’s a lot of fun things to do and there’s great people who live here. Housing is affordable and traffic isn’t a daily nightmare. (At least in my experience!)

Overall, I’d have to say this past year has been fun. I’ve been able to interview some fascinating people, including business owner and “SuperMom” Andrea Bear, Starlight Theatre’s producing artistic director, Christopher Brady, plus so many other incredible people in between. (And if you missed those stories, you can find them at northwestquarterly.com). Our community is full of passionate people who love what they do, and that passion is contagious.

If I’m being honest a second time, this year has had its challenges as well. Balancing my editorial duties with being a “stay-at-home mom” to my 1-year-old baby has been tricky to navigate at times. Thank goodness for my mom and mother-in-law, who graciously and eagerly provide child care. I couldn’t balance it all without them. I definitely know how lucky I am.

If I could sum up this past work year in only three words, I would choose “adventurous,” “motivational” and “caffeinated.” I explored, I learned, and I drank a WHOLE bunch of coffee. (For reference, my Keurig is the only thing I keep out permanently on my kitchen counter).

This job is truly a blessing. Cheers to more years of creating interesting, informative content and writing honest front columns. It will always be my mission to deliver you a quality product.

Have a great week! ❚

Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor