Way back in the '70s when I first stepped into the proud profession of journalism, things were simpler. We had computer terminals - nothing like the PCs of today, but far better than the IBM Selectric I worked on at the CSUN Sundial.

We hand-edited a lot of copy, a practice I continue today on tougher pieces, my own in particular.

And every story ended with a -30-. If the numerals weren't there, the editor assumed there was more to come.

Well, here I am in my 30th year at the Daily News, a career I started while still in college, one I dreamed would be a stepping stone to the big time. I envisioned myself in the Beltway, writing politics, inspired like so many of my peers by the journalism that brought down a corrupt White House.

Yet the reality was better than any dream. For three decades, I have worked with the most dedicated, talented, wonderful, warm and inspiring professionals.

Still every story must have a -30-.

Mine comes today.

My last day at the Daily News - my first "real" job - is here. Wednesday I start at Providence Health System, doing public relations for Providence St. Joseph and Holy Cross medical centers and other facilities in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. I'm excited, sad, anxious and a dozen other emotions.

But mostly I'm honored to have been a journalist for so many years, a profession that never really felt like a job, but more a privilege. At the same time, I'm thrilled to be starting something new and challenging for such a quality organization.

My empty nest coupled with the decline in the newspaper industry inspired me to consider a mid-life career switch. My husband, Dick, did it a few years back, leaving the food research and development industry to teach school. He loves it and I couldn't be prouder that he's making it happen.

Our son, Matt, is 22 and about to graduate Pepperdine; our daughter, Kristen, is a 19-year-old freshman at Michigan State. Their sports, baseball and softball, have kept us busy for years - they both still play in college - but those two empty bedrooms have given me a lot of time to focus on myself.

Most of my career was spent in Santa Clarita, running our bureau here. My editors knew it was important for me to be near home, near to Matt and Kris, and they never batted an eye when I sneaked out for a few hours to watch the kids' games.

That generosity taught me invaluable lessons about how to treat my own staff of reporters with respect and understanding. In most cases, they will return the favors with a greater dedication to the job. It's about teamwork.

I'll miss being somewhat an insider in this town, one where I chronicled every move, from the spark that resulted in an overwhelming decision to form the city of Santa Clarita to its 20th anniversary last fall. I've written about tragedies and joyful events, amazing inventions and the occasional scandal.

I was tough on City Hall, school boards, water agencies, developers and activists when I had to be. But I like to think I was fair. Those who know me know the particulars of my own strong political, social, philosophical and religious leanings, but I hope I never tipped my hand and tilted my coverage.

There are innumerable people to thank for all the great memories, my great friends at the Daily News, particularly editor Barbara Jones and former editor-in-chief Ron Kaye top that long, long list. Both pushed me to be my best, to insist on answers and to draw on my own emotions to improve my written word.

Professionally, Gail Ortiz at City Hall and good friend Stephanie Weiss are among countless people who have helped us put out some great Santa Clarita coverage. They threw a going-away party for me last week that truly humbled me. Congressman Buck McKeon, Santa Clarita's first mayor and a man I first met decades ago when he was on the Hart High School District board, came by, as did numerous business contacts I now count as friends. What an honor.

Also, I'm leaving a piece of my heart here with reporter Jerry Berrios, who is extraordinarily talented. This town is blessed to have someone of her caliber covering its stories.

For me, it's been a great ride. The experiences I've collected on the road are incredible. Looking back on the stories you've let me share bring pride, smiles and tears. They've been about life. Now I'm rewriting my own.

-30-