My column about my column

I confess, I love hearing from people who read my column — the ones that like it anyway. Whether they give me a call, drop me a quick email or stop by in person, it’s fun to know I’ve struck a chord with readers.

I never think I’m writing anything controversial. I mean, I’m just telling stories about ... well ... me. However, I have had a few people take issue with things I’ve written, and they’ve certainly let me know about it. I guess that’s OK. My column is on the opinion page, therefore it’s my opinion and they are certainly entitled to theirs as well.

On the flip side, I’ve also heard from those that read my column for what it is — just me sharing a few bits and pieces of my life that I think others might find entertaining or relatable. Those are my favorite kinds of responses. It’s just nice to get feedback from time to time, especially when it’s positive.

When Mick picks up the latest issue of the newspaper, he always turns to page 4 first — the Opinion page — generally to see if I’ve said anything about him of which he should be aware. He doesn’t usually say much after reading it. Occasionally I get a “yep” or sometimes a “pretty good,” but not much else. I choose to consider that a win.

As for my kids ... I don’t think Josh reads my columns. I don’t think he has time. But if I ever put out “feelers” to the kids for those times when life is a bit boring and I hit a mental road block for ideas, he’s always quick to offer up suggestions.

Avery reads me on occasion on the newspaper’s website. I never get a comment from her on anything I’ve written, but she seems to be up-to-speed on things going on in my head and in the paper, which is how I know she catches it at least once in a while.

Carson calls me every Thursday and asks me to read my column to him. He’s my biggest fan. Plus, I always get a “Great job, Mom! You’re so talented!” from him. (That kid is great for my ego.)

Carson sort of has me pegged as some kind of D-list or pseudo-celebrity — thinking it’s cool when people he encounters tell him they’ve read his mom’s stuff in the paper. Sometimes I think he envisions me walking around town wearing Dolce and Gabbana sunglasses, sporting a bag over my shoulder toting some miniature dog and a body guard by my side, when in reality I’m usually just schlepping around in jeans and a t-shirt with a bandana in my hair.

There’s only been one time I’ve refused to read my ramblings to Carson — the column I wrote a few weeks back about my furry love, Aspen, dying. I told him it was hard enough to write ... there was absolutely no way I would be able to read it.

But it was apparent others did.

In fact, a few days ago when I went to the post office to retrieve the mail for the office, I found an envelope sent to my attention. It was a lovely card with a letter of condolence for the loss of my golden retriever. To think that someone read my column, then took the time to pick out a card and write to me, sharing with me her story about her own golden, Gus ... I have to say, it’s a bit humbling.

I don’t profess to be a journalist. I’m don’t have a degree in writing. I’m just a person with an average life, a hint of neurosis and a (sometimes) entertaining story to tell.

I’m just glad someone is reading it.

Contact Dana King at dking@shawmedia.com