It’s sad to say, but I’m leaving as editor of the Redmond Reporter to take on a new job and begin an exciting new chapter in my life. I will soon work for the most demanding — and rewarding — boss in my life.

Aug. 31 will mark the end the of my tenure working in this wonderful community as I begin my new full-time duty of caring for my five-month-old son, Blake James Christianson.

My new job will, no doubt, feature plenty of challenges, but the joy of staying home and raising my only son will be priceless and forever gratifying.

It’s hard to explain the excitement — and anxiety — that I have bubbling inside of me. I am excited about the opportunity to focus all of my time and energy on my bundle of joy, but I’d be lying if I said I’m not a bit nervous too.

This is unknown territory for me, but I know one thing for sure: Blake and I will become better men because of this decision.

So starting in September, I will exchange my voice recorder and computer for a baby bottle and diapers — and you know what? I couldn’t be happier.

I am very sad to leave after five years of writing city news, community features, business profiles and sports achievements, but I am leaving for a much-greater calling.

My beautiful and smart fiance Holly will be returning to work full-time next month — leaving me home alone with Blake. I can definitely see a Daddy blog in my future — I will need some place to brag and vent.

Watch out world, “Bill and Blake’s Excellent Adventure” is about to begin.

My year will only get better as Holly and I will be getting married in December, tying the official knot on my most excellent family.

The only sour part of this magical year will be leaving the Redmond community, where I have grown so much — professionally and personally.

I have met some amazing people during my time at the Reporter who have helped shape this wonderful community. Redmond residents should be proud to live, work and play here. It is a financially stable city that values its parks, schools, senior citizens and families. It is a first-class city that is only getting better with time — no wonder Money Magazine voted Redmond the fifth-best small city to live in the country.

Longtime Bothell-Kenmore Reporter editor Andy Nystrom will replace me and continue the Redmond Reporter’s dedication to local news and community involvement.

There have been several changes at the Redmond Reporter during my five years here, but our mission has never wavered: to provide the community with up-to-date, in-depth reporting about everything Redmond.

Thank you to the staff at the Redmond Reporter for making this newspaper Redmond’s go-to resource. Thank you to Sound Publishing for giving me the opportunity to develop my craft and thank you to the Redmond community for embracing — and challenging — me for the last five years.

It’s been a fun ride Redmond, but now it’s time for me to buckle up for the next journey in my life.

Bill Christianson will be leaving the Redmond Reporter Aug. 31 after five years as editor.