I'm back

When Michael Jordan returned following his first retirement from the Chicago Bulls on March 18, 1995, the announcement came in a two word press release that simply said "I'm back."
OK, so I'm not Michael Jordan. But as of Monday, I too could use those same two words as I rejoined the staff at The McDonough County Voice as a sports writer.
When I left The Voice some 1,030 days ago, back on August 6, 2011, I was in need of a change. Since that time, many things have happened in my life: a few good, but in all honesty, the majority not so much. All the same though, I do have to admit that it's been a great learning experience. That's what life is all about. It's not always sunshine and roses.
For a time after I left, I definitely did not miss the daily grind that the newspaper business is - and can be. I needed that time away - and it gave me a different perspective on things.
But that started changing this past fall, when I started doing some correspondent work for The Voice and the Canton Daily Ledger, mainly H.S. football games on Friday nights. Those Friday Night Lights ignited something in me that I hadn't felt in some time. That continued into basketball season and then into the spring. It made me realize how much I missed the writing aspect - talking to players, coaches, etc., the meeting of a deadline obligation, the challenge of it all.
When the chance came for me to get back into writing on a more permanent basis, I was excited for the opportunity - and extremely thankful and appreciative to the staff at The Voice in being so supportive. A lot of familiar faces remain from the time I left previously and they've welcomed me back with open arms. I can't thank them enough. A lot of new faces are there as well - including sports editor Scott Holland. I can't thank them - and him - enough for the opportunity to put my 20-plus years experience to work for the people of McDonough County an surrounding areas.
I look forward to seeing many familiar faces - and meeting a lot of new people - as I begin this journey anew. I hope everyone joins along for the ride.
I'm back.