Friday 8 January 2010 was my last day of work at Curtin. I’d worked there for almost 10 years. I had a very nice farewell morning tea and was most touched by the gift, the card, and the bunch of flowers. A couple of people even came in to wish me well, even though they don’t work Fridays. It was a small group, as at least half the library staff was away on holidays. I am actually glad there weren’t more people there as it would have been overwhelming. As it was, the small group meant that I was able to maintain my composure by telling people that I am sure I am going to see them around the place, given how small Perth is. I even coped with having left my speech at home. I think I did say what I meant to, thanking everyone and acknowledging how much I have learned over the years and the many wonderful opportunities I have been offered.
I like the fact that the card says Congratulations, rather than Goodbye. There are two pens in the picture, on the right a very beautiful ballpoint pen handmade with sandalwood, a gift from a colleague I will miss. (However I know our professional relationship will continue, and hopefully our friendship will also.) On the left the gift from all my colleagues, a vintage Parker 75 vermeil with a medium nib. Purchased from my dealer! (They had help – consulted M for advice.) Both pens have already been used – the ballpoint especially when I need to sign things or make notes quickly. I used it to sign my contract with my new Place of Work, for example.
The card is full of lovely supportive messages that I am almost embarrassed to read – I am definitely not used to having so many nice things said about me.
I start at ECU tomorrow. There will be a lot to learn and many new colleagues to get to know. I am looking forward to it.
8 Comments
All the best for tomorrow & the year ahead. I hope your new chapter provides 2,010 reasons to be glad you made the decision. Good luck!
All the best in your new job!
All the best in your new job and Happy New Year!
Best wishes for tomorrow’s fresh start. I believe they are really anticipating your arrival as a chance for things to happen, and I’m sure you won’t disappoint them at all.
I wrote a list of things I thought I would want to do in my new position before I started, and before I had any idea whether they were realistic or not.
I just revisited it while I was writing this. Yes, it was a useful exercise to do. Much of what I hoped I would be doing, I am part of the way toward getting done. It captures that “oooh, I’m so eager to get into it” feeling that I had at the start and refreshes me to read it.
Hope you have a great day today!
Thank you for all the good wishes everyone 🙂
Kathryn thanks for that tip! I have just made some notes for myself.
It should be an interesting year ahead.
All good wishes and thoughts for your new job – I’m sure you’ll do great things, and enjoy the fresh surroundings and new tasks. Happy New Year, in general!
Congratulations Constance! no surprise to hear you will be missed. Enjoy the new job, it sounds terrific.