It's officially official

I have been absolutely overwhelmed with the support each of you in the blogosphere have shown as I went through the decision-making process of leaving my job of 14 years to move to Austin to raise Noah. (I know. I know. Too many prepositional phrases in that first sentence.)

I thought about leaving a personal note on each one of your blogs/Facebook pages, but It would take wayyy too long.

So, I'll say it here: Thank you!

Many of you used words like, "courageous" and "brave" in complimenting me on my decision. I'm flattered. But I'll add that it was really the only decision I could make. Noah deserves to have his daddy around. And if I didn't go, words like, "stupid" and "selfish" would be more appropriate.

It became official late Thursday afternoon, with a simple phone call from one of the editors at the Star-Telegram: "Kevin," the caller said, "your buyout application has been accepted. ... "

And just like that, after 14 years, 3 months, and 8 days, my Star-Telegram career entered into its final days, moments, really.

It's odd to think of myself as a soon to be ex-employer of this newspaper. And it is so exhilarating to know I can watch Noah grow up and help him be a good man.

Again, thanks for all of the support, and I'm working on a blog post about my time at the Star-Telegram that should be ready in a few days.