In the past eight years, I’ve written nearly 40 feature articles for the Sun Journal, as well as this column. I still remember how scared I was the first time I was asked to write a feature. Never mind that I had offered my services, I didn’t believe I would actually be taken up on it! I recall the subject was about showing sheep at county fairs, something I knew absolutely nothing about. I learned quickly though; and since that time, I’ve been sent everywhere to see what I can learn and write about. By reading what I’ve learned, perhaps you’ve gained some knowledge about things you didn’t know anything about either.

As I completed one of my most recent articles, this time about genealogy, I realized how fortunate I was to be doing what I do.

I’d just had the opportunity to drive to Jay on a beautiful autumn afternoon to interview a really nice family and, in researching and writing their story, I had learned something totally new. I thought, not for the first time, how privileged I am to meet so many interesting people living so nearby.

For example, at the beginning of my career as a features writer, I met three senior citizens. All in their ninth decade, they couldn’t have been more different, but they were all equally delightful.

Evelyn Johnston of Brunswick was a nationally ranked bowler with more energy than people half her age. Famous mountaineer Paul Petzoldt of Topsham reminisced for hours about climbing the highest peaks in the world. The story he told was published just weeks before he died.

My most charming storyteller was Gerard Robichaud of “Papa Martel” fame. The author of one of Maine’s “Great Books,” he treated me like a famous international journalist. Years later, I interviewed Gerry a second time when excerpts of “Papa Martel” were performed by local actors during a Franco-American celebration.

Other memorable interviews include Jane Marston, a Freeport woman who, while grieving the deaths of two family members, adopted and rehabilitated Patton, a Lipizzan stallion. In doing so, she gave herself the gift of a whole new life.

I interviewed the Lavans, who left their high-pressure careers in Washington, D.C., to raise alpacas in Bowdoin. I observed disabled children connecting with horses through therapeutic riding lessons at Topsham’s “Flying Changes.”

Although I never met Heidi Weber of Dryden, we corresponded for several weeks. Her handwritten letters, sprinkled with German, told the heart-rending story of growing up in Berlin during World War II and how two American soldiers blessed her family with an unexpected gift. The box of apples and homemade treats, sent from stateside and so selflessly given, was her best Christmas ever.

The most fun I’ve had working on a story was with the “Hogsisters,” female Harley riders from the Lewiston area. I met with the group outside Schott’s Harley-Davidson on a summer morning two years ago. What an awesome sight to see those shiny bikes revved up and ready for the annual ride to Bar Harbor. While interviewing nearly 20 exuberant women as they posed for photos, it was all I could do to keep from going with them.

To collect information for the features, my editor often queries our readers, requesting stories about everything from hobbies to how you fell in love. You’ve gladly shared your experiences and knowledge, your interests, your pain and your joy.

I’ve been to your homes and been introduced to your families. We’ve met halfway between Auburn and Brunswick in a coffee shop. You’ve even sat with me at my own kitchen table.

There are occasions when I’ve never seen your face, but you’ve willingly answered my questions over the phone, returned my long-distance messages at your own expense and e-mailed information as together, we weave the words that tell your story. As we bring 2005 to a close and look forward to another year, I want to say how grateful I am that you’re willing to open the doors of your hearts to me, a perfect stranger.

Thank you for your cooperation, your openness and your trust. Thank you for teaching me what you know. Your stories will always amaze and inspire me.

Karen Carlton is a freelance writer living in West Bath. She may be reached by e-mail at [email protected].