Kathleen Valenti

Free-Range

It’s been nearly six years since I was invited into the feathery fold of Chicks on the Case. 

Over these 72-odd months, I have blogged about everything from writing to my overuse of exclamation points to my penchant for running in argyle socks. 

I’ve also had the incredible pleasure and privilege of collaborating with my dear, dear Chicks, hosting guests, and having hilarious, meaningful, and memorable conversations with you all. 

Much has changed since I became a Chick. 

My third (and final) Maggie O’Malley book was published. 

There was a global pandemic. 

I landed a great new job after being laid off from my great old job. 

My marriage unraveled, followed by my life. 

I got a dog, sent a son off to college, helped a daughter navigate high school, fell in love, ran a few half-marathons, and consumed a metric ton (give or take) of licorice.

Through it all, you have been by my side. On this blog. At conferences. On social media. In my heart and mind. 

As 2024 rides into the sunset, I’m doing the same, stepping down as a full-fledged Chick to something akin to free-range. 

Translation: I’ll go from being a regularly blogging Chick to a Chick Emerita (and occasional Guest Chick, who sometimes pops in to blog).

This change will help me transition as I become an empty-nester, recalibrate my writing plans, and manage a challenging work and personal life. 

This isn’t goodbye or adieu or farewell. This is “see ya ‘round,” especially in the comments. (I’m like Styrofoam or glitter…pretty much impossible to get rid of.) 

Thanks for being such an important part of my writing journey and life. I adore you all, and am excited to see where the next chapter leads us. 

xoxo

40 thoughts on “Free-Range”

  1. Best wishes in everything to you, Kathy! I’ve been an empty nester for a year and just started a new day job (after 2 not so great jobs that followed a COVID layoff). Who knew so much change would happen at this stage in our lives.

    You’re gonna knock it out of the park!

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  4. Kathy, I choked up reading this. You are such an extraordinary writer… and person. I will miss the hell out of you but I take comfort in know that you, like styrofoam and glitter, will always be around. And much less annoying.

    I can’t wait to hear about all your future journeys!

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    1. Every time I see glitter now, Ima think about Kathy!

      Oh, Kathy, my love, I will miss you. You’ve been such a—yeah, I’ll say it—glittery sparkle here at Chicks and in my real life. You’re hilarious and smart and a fabulous writer and the Chickernet was lucky to have you. I’ll be excited to hear about the next chapter in your life. *smooooch*

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  10. Like, Ellen, I got a little teary-eyed reading this post. (Yes, Chicks do cry!). You have been such a marvelous blog-mate these past six years, Kathy, and I will miss your witty posts and behind-the-scenes snark and love. But I take heart that you will ALWAYS be a Chick, and that we’ll be seeing you here on the blog, and hopefully at writer cons and the like, in the coming years! Here’s to your free-range future–I know it will be terrific! xoxo

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    1. You can take the Chick out of the Case, but…well you know. Bottom line: once a Chick, always a Chick.

      Thanks for being such a fabulous friend and fellow Chick. ❤ I will definitely see you soon, here or perhaps at a con!

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  12. Kathy!! What a lovely post. *wipes tears* It has been a genuine blast hanging out with you. You are such a wonderful, sweet, hilarious, fun person, not to mention fabulous blog sister and incredible writer. Adore you to pieces and will miss you so much. Thank you for everything…and thank goodness you’ll be popping back in as an emerita because I don’t want to say goodbye (ever). Sending best wishes for your free-range era. All the hugs. 🩷

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  14. Kathy, love you so much, and all the beautiful things you’ve said here–right backatcha! There is simply no way we won’t all miss your smart, hilarious, thoughtful, supportive, positive, and spot-on contributions to Chicks both on and off the blog as a full-time Chick, but know that you are stuck with us forever. We’ll look forward to following your glitter trail and any sparkles you might toss our way on your many, many blog visits and Emerita posts. I am 100% positive that you will enjoy huge success no matter what your future holds. And I am also sure it will include a huge blockbuster bestseller (or ten). May the road rise to meet you, and we Chicks all have your back!

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  15. You are definitely glitter and not styrofoam. And I’m not crying- I just have allergies! 🤧

    I appreciate you letting me chatter on messenger from time to time. You mean a lot! And I better be seated with the Chicks at the wedding! 💒

    XOXO

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  16. You are definitely glitter and not styrofoam. And I’m not crying- I just have allergies! 🤧

    I appreciate you letting me chatter on messenger from time to time. You mean a lot! And I better be seated with the Chicks at the wedding! 💒

    XOXO

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  17. You are definitely glitter and not styrofoam. And I’m not crying- I just have allergies! 🤧

    I appreciate you letting me chatter on messenger from time to time. You mean a lot! And I better be seated with the Chicks at the wedding! 💒

    XOXO

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  18. You are definitely glitter and not styrofoam. And I’m not crying- I just have allergies! 🤧

    I appreciate you letting me chatter on messenger from time to time. You mean a lot! And I better be seated with the Chicks at the wedding! 💒

    XOXO

    Like

    Reply

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