New Beginnings

I’m taking a break from politics. At least, for the time it takes to complete this post anyway.  I could easily (and probably will) go to Twitter afterwards and catch a newsbreaking story or better yet, drop by the Blogging SupposiTories and see who would deserve a good verbal bitch slapping from your’s truly. You get the idea.

A co-worker of mine retired as of 15;30 this afternoon. A woman who worked for the agency for over 30 years as an adminstrative assistant in various departments. Someone loved by all. She was the worker who could handle the most difficult of co-workers with ease while the rest of us would just clench our teeth to keep from using some rather choice words. Dear readers who have been following me, you can only imagine what I could be holding back under certain circumstances.

She knew how everything worked, had the magic touch with photocopiers and mailing machines that I constantly fought losing battles with. She knew where everything was and knew where the bodies were buried so to speak.  She was the go to person. The kind you wanted on your team. Efficient, professional and did it all with class.

Part of my routine every morning  was to meet in her office (I started later) & we would shoot the shit. I can’t really talk politics with my husband, because he hates it.  Many of my other co-workers, as well as other friends and aquaintances  literally cringe; they look like they want to run for cover someplace; to crawl under furniture.  She is also left of center; maybe even further to the left than I am.  She also spoke proudly of her family; sons and grandkids. Yes, she would reminisce about the good ol’ days, but not that sick way ol’ PM Stevie spiteful and the Harpercons long for that ‘wholesome’ “Father Knows Best” or “Petticoat Junction” crap. I’m goin’ to have to find someone to discuss progressive politics with.

She was also there for me when I was struggling all those months coming into work with those migraines and other health issues; much absenteism during that time. She listened while I expressed frustration with the two neurologists I had consulted with or the prescriptions either not working or had terrible side-effects. She always looked out for me. It’s not often a co-worker will look out for you like that.

She tried to encourage me when I was smoke free. Yes, unfortunately, kids, I fell off the wagon over three weeks ago.  But, please! Don’t chastise me in my comments section and no scolding emails! I will probably end up quitting again, like when the deep cold winter rolls along again as it always does. But honestly, I feel much more like myself again.

Oh, the neuro put me on new migraine preventative meds, they’re working like a charm! I’ve been migraine free for over a month now!   I digress…

Anyway, back to the subject at hand, I will miss those morning gab sessions most, I think. It will most definitely be weird that she’s not there anymore.

It’s a new beginning in her life; retirement. She worked hard for many years and now she gets to enjoy the fruits of those labours. A new journey in life.

I have seen other co-workers retire. Amazing the projects some of them take on.  travel, piano lessons, book clubs, oil painting, full time photography, gyms;  I even spoke to one who has taken up tap dancing lessons. I don’t know if he’ll be the next Gregory Hynes, but I say if he’s fit, why the hell not? More power to ‘em.  As for the lady who left today, I think she’s going to take it easy for awhile. Why not? She’s earned it.

All the best and Happy Trails wherever you are! Now that you have the time, I hope you start following my blog.

Speaking of new beginnings; I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate two other co-workers (they know who they are) who are currently on maternity leave. Both had their babies in the past two weeks. Both are first children for them. I wish them nothing but the best as they embark on their new adventures as mommies.  One had a girl and the other had a boy just a few days ago. I hear both of the moms and the babies are healthy and happy.  All the best, ladies to you and your families!

Now, will I or won’t I go back to politics in 5 minutes? Hmmm