Sandwiched
I’m so grateful for the support from my husband, John, and my teenage sons, Jonathon and Jacob, on my endeavors. They’ve cheered me along all of my journeys, from walking in the Indy 500 Mini Marathon last May, to becoming an independent grant consultant, and to finally getting published “for real” with my recent self-help book.
However, they may be a bit hesitant to show enthusiasm for my new Reporter column. Let me explain.
I used to write a column years ago for another local paper. My family also has a rather unusual last name. Like my previous column, “Sandwiched” will primarily focus on my family life to help others realize they’re not alone in their highs and lows.
When you combine these elements for a column in a beloved local newspaper, you can’t help but put your family in the spotlight.
Thanks to my previous column, John probably has 20+ stories of when strangers have asked him about:
- His health
- A recent vacation
- Our boys and their mishaps at home and school
- Our home improvement projects
- Our parents
… and other topics. He’s already steering himself for even more questions now that I’m back in the saddle, especially since he’s a salesman who often has customers in Hamilton County.
Also, my boys were little back in the days of my old column. They’re young adults now, which means they won’t be immune to people asking them, “Are you the Jonathon/Jacob that Amy Shankland writes about?”
With all of this in mind, I literally asked each of them weeks ago if they were okay with me starting this new column. After some eye rolls and me swearing upon my father’s grave that I would always run topics past them before I even open up my laptop, they granted me permission. Begrudgingly.
I’ll also be writing stories about my mom as well, although of course I’ll always call her Mom and I won’t use her real name. Out of respect, however, I’ll talk to her about any topics revolving around her as well.
I’m still at the beginning of this new venture, so to avoid causing (much) embarrassment to my family, I’ve made a vow to always think, “What would Erma do?” I’m referring of course to the beloved humorist, writer, columnist, and journalist Erma Bombeck.
Some of you young’uns won’t know who Erma Bombeck was, as she passed away in 1996. I grew up reading her column, which focused on the everyday experiences of being a wife and mother. Erma is one of my idols. She had a beautiful gift for storytelling and could make you laugh out loud or wipe away a few tears. If I ever write a column even half as good as one of hers, I’ll be amazed.
So with Erma’s spirit always with me, a thorough pre-screening process for every story, and the occasional prayer, I hope the spotlight will be softened for each and every family member. Thank you once again, John, Jonathon, Jacob, and Mom, for your support!