I've never been very good at goodbyes, but I'll give it a try. 

For the past two years it has been my absolute pleasure to serve as the editor of Palos Patch. In some ways it seems like it was just yesterday that I was driving around town taking pictures and preparing the site's directory. 

Time has flown by and it's time for me to move on. Starting tomorrow I will be shifting my attention over to a new Patch site that will be launching later this month. Beverly-Mt. Greenwood will be the first Patch site in Chicago and I am thrilled to be at the helm. I will also serve as the co-editor of Evergreen Park Patch. 

This is an exciting new challenge and a sign of Patch's growth and vibrancy. Palos Patch launched in August 2010 as the third Patch site in Illinois and the 102nd in the country. We now have 60 sites in Illinois and more than 850 across the country. 

The wide range of stories I have covered is a testament to the unique characteristics of this community. From enterprising students and nesting bald eagles, to inspiring people and passionate volunteers I never ceased to be amazed at all that the towns of Palos have to offer.

Even in the face of tragedy and incredibly sad crimes, the warm empathy and compassion of Palos residents has always been apparent. You care so much about your community. That only encouraged me to be better at my job and provide you a site worthy of its readers.

I have met some amazing people in Palos Heights, Palos Park and Palos Hills. I thank everyone who allowed me to tell their stories and who shared their perspectives on the Palos area.

I also have to thank the municipal employees, police officers, firefighters, educators and elected officials who embraced Patch and recognized the service we are trying to provide to the community.

Fear not, you are in excellent hands. Starting Wednesday, Nick Swedberg will be the new Palos Patch editor. Nick is an experienced journalist and was the founding editor of St. Charles Patch and most recently has been running Oak Forest Patch. We will be working together to make the transition a seamless one, and I am sure he will take the site to new heights. 

You can follow me over on the Beverly-Mt. Greenwood Patch Facebook page and if you want to follow the news in those communities sign up for the newsletter.

My name will still pop up on the site every now and then and I will probably run into a few of you at a Palos restaurant or event every so often.

You've all taught me so much, I hope in my own way I informed you a little. Stay proud Palos!

And send all those news tips to Nick at nicks@patch.com or palos@patch.com. We love those things.