Last Day.....

Today was my last day working for my civilian employer...as if I'll really be able to ignore the emails and meeting notices I get. I am so addicted to my blackberry, it's hard to imagine really letting go of it all.

It was a bitter sweet day, one of many I've had lately. For the last year, I have been a Director for Public Affairs for BP (large oil company) and have loved every single minute of it. When I told my management team that I was being mobilized they worked out a plan that allowed me to come back to Virginia for my last 6 weeks at home. I was able to work out of the DC office, travel for the company, and work from home if it made sense. BRAVO BP for looking out for me! I could not have asked for a better situation. They made it very clear to me that my well being was their primary concern and to take as much time as I needed to get ready for the next year.

I've always had great bosses at this company and I can't wait to work for and with them again. I truly believe that I won the job lottery.

Anywhooose, back to today: As I've made a habit of doing the last several weeks, I finished work, turned in my badge and snuck out the back door. No drama, no speeches, just a graceful and quiet exit.

So, consider this a formal and public apology. I've told many friends and colleagues lately that I will go to lunch, dinner or drinks with them before I leave. Ain't gonna happen, folks. It's getting harder and harder to say So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Good-bye! (Come on....you had to know that a Sound of Music reference was coming at some point...) I'd rather that we'd all just pretend that I'm going on another work trip....and leave it at that.

Let's save the parties and the hugging for when I get back. Capice?