Seven years ago, when I interviewed Karly Wilson to article with me at Iler Campbell, I had a feeling we were going to hit it off. Not just a fellow UVIC law grad, but someone smart, with a sense of humour and an ease with the world. Now at age 34, with many lives behind her, and five years into her legal career, she’s looking for a new place for her talents. Changing lanes often includes some frantic shoulder-checking and doesn’t typically allow for reflection, but Karly’s taking time to contemplate the best next lane for her. Read on to find out why.

Thirty-four year old Faiv Noelle has made one heck of a solo lane change. I know about it only because I took an interest in a service provider who shares my aesthetic. You see, Faiv designed my custom Chandlerville kitchen. And now she’s my friend. 

Sometimes even my tiny fridge starts to look bare. Usually there’s a block of tofu lurking within though, and from that, I can cobble together something edible. Tonight is one of those nights.

Mom’s lane change story is the one she was proudest of: exercising her right to a medically assisted death (MAiD) on August 3, 2025.

Michelle Simmons crossed my radar when she spoke to the Aging in Place Committee at the Co-operative Housing Federation of Toronto, where I work. She talked about the links between aging and compromised swallowing, informed by the research she does at the University Health Network.  The topic is something we should all consider as we march ever closer to being aged. But my spidey senses were engaged when she explained her path took her from classical singing to a Masters in Speech Language Pathology (SLP).  Lane Changer!!

Jessica came into my life a decade ago as the then-girlfriend of Jack’s son. Still in her late teens, she was studying to be a health care professional. Much has happened since. Jess’s story is about knowing early on when you’ve made the wrong choice and not being afraid to switch paths. She knew her creative side needed to shine - she’s a photographer now, and like her many other clients, I’m particularly grateful!   

This probably happens to you too - I buy a rotisserie chicken and then I get stuck on what to do with the meat after about meal three. I googled this dilemma and came up with Kung Pao Chicken. And then, of course, I modified the hell out of it:-) ‘cause that’s what I do.

Bet you don’t know an air traffic controller turned writer. I certainly didn’t until Emma Simpson and I met at the Ireland Writers Retreat in June 2024. When I conceived of this lane changer series, it was a no-brainer to reconnect with her by video at her home in England so I tell her remarkable story.

Funny how you make friends. After Jack died, I was draining all my income on doggie day care. Having someone come to give my girls a midday pee-break seemed a better idea. Jennifer was that person. For the first year, ours was a text-based relationship. With the switcheroo to working from home in March 2020, however, I kept her on so Bidi and Molly didn’t get too attached to just me. The drop-off and pick-up chats in my backyard were separated by six feet but joined by a need for social contact. We got to know and like each other, and despite being pet-less now for over two years, I still consider Jenn a friend. But I learned a whole lot more when we sat down for an interview.