Editor's notes

I have been putting off writing this column all day. I think it's because once I do, this all becomes real. Most of you probably know by now that I am leaving Kids Today. In fact, by the time you read this, I will be gone.

The decision to leave was not an easy one, and one I'm sure many of you in this industry are very familiar with. Balancing motherhood and a career is a tricky business. In the end, because I am able, motherhood has won out, and I have decided to stay home with my 7-month-old son.

It has been a wonderful 3½ years at Kids Today, and if this publication has grown and blossomed during my time here, it is because of all the wonderful people in this industry. The retailers who share their stories with us each month, the manufacturers who share their plans with us, the faces I've come to know and love at the trade shows — I will miss you all terribly.

But don't think it's all goodbyes. This industry has grown to be a part of me while I have grown to be a part of it, and you won't be able to keep me too far away. I am branching out on my own as a freelancer, so it's possible you'll see my name in the pages of Kids Today, or that we'll work together personally in the future.

Meanwhile, I leave this magazine in very capable hands. Lisa Casinger, who has spent the last four years as the retail editor of our sister publication, Home Accents Today, is taking the helm at Kids Today beginning this month. She is a wonderful writer and a truly great person, and I have no doubt you will all come to know and love her in the coming months.

Tanya Merritte will stay on as our very capable managing editor, and our art director, Robin Mykytyn, will continue to ensure the pages of Kids Today look fabulous.

Still, it is with great sadness that I say goodbye, good luck and thank you to each and every one of you. You have helped make this the best job I've ever had to leave.