FAREWELL EVERYONE

This week was spent packing, finishing my last week at B&N Kazoo, and saying good bye. All in all, it was a good week-filled with many laughs and no tears. It's strange, I thought I'd be more upset about leaving. That doesn't mean I'm not sad to leave so many wonderful people. I think because I've done this a few times, it's become somewhat easier to leave. The only regret I have is that there are a few people I won't be able to see. I hope they know that I have thought about them-it's just been such a crazy time and very difficult to slow down.

Today was my last day at work. It began well and then our district manager made a surprise visit. The mood quickly became very heavy. I'll be honest-I'm pissed that she turned what should have been a fun day into a shitty mess. There were a few bright moments-Tom gave me one of his beautiful photos, Becky baked two delicious cakes, Kat gave me a bag that had two gorgeous scarfs she had knitted (she knitted the bag too), and she and Mike P. gave me a card that contained kind words and another gift. I was able to convince a couple of friends to join me for a beer. My boss showed up and it was obvious he was frustrated. After a short time, he stood up to leave and began to shake my hand-a gesture that quickly turned into a hug. He told me that he tried to be a good boss and I felt compelled to tell him the truth. For all my grumblings, he has been a good boss. I can only hope that I will work with so many great people at my new job.

I am eager to get to California for many reasons, but mainly because I hope to stop and breath for a moment. I will try to go to the ocean next weekend so I can relax and tune into nature again. I desperately need that.

I have two days left in Michigan. Tomorrow I will spend part of the day with my family and the second part with friends. Sunday I finish packing and try to fit everything into my car. I am a little apprehensive about the drive, but also look forward to it. I really enjoyed driving to Florida earlier this year and am excited about this trip-despite everyone telling me how boring Nebraska and Wyoming are. I'm just looking forward to the beginning of a new journey. I have wanted to move to California for over 12 years and am so happy that it is finally happening.

Life is not about the destination-it's about the journey.