Saturday, June 2, 2007

The End of the End

Wow.

Friday morning I woke up at 4:30a.m. and felt like a kid on Christmas. I knew it would be an exciting day but I didn't know exactly what would happen. Never did I imagine a safari hat covered in lettuce.

The preparations people at work went to for my going-away potluck were amazing. Decorations, a cake that wished me well in Malagasy and best of all, a book full of photos that everyone wrote messages in!

After some phenomenal food from Phnom Penh and much to the dismay of our safety specialist, I sat on a chair on top of a table - yes it was as precarious as it seemed - to be roasted. Many comments were kind and many comments reminded me I am probably the most unconventional and inappropriate HR person that office has ever seen. In the end, it was me who made me cry when I told the group that I always knew I was part of the HR group, but that they made me feel like I was part of the research group too. It's not an easy thing to walk away from a group of people who are so open in their appreciation, who are so smart and fabulous and who make me feel like a rock star among rock stars.

When it's all said and done... where to rock stars go for the after party? Forbidden Island, Alameda's very own tiki lounge.

To all the people I have worked with the past 3 years, 8 months and 9 days... there have definitely been ups and downs and some challenging situations to get through. I'm not sure exactly how to represent that on a growth curve, but I know in the end it was an absolute delight to get to know and work with you all.

Before I get too sappy, I've got to simmer down, take a moment and then start getting psyched for the new beginning to come. Africa, a shot at a new career in travel reporting and a documentary film called "Dream". I'll tell you all about it after I get some coffee.

Miss K

6 comments:

Luis López said...

Congratulations for your experience. Regards from Spain.

Anonymous said...

Miss K - since from day one I have f'ed up your first name - Blame it on the Jamaican accent. It has been a truly wonderful experience interacting with you over the years and getting to know you. Thanks for the words of wisdom and for guidance. You are truly one of a kind. I will be watching you and if there is ever a need, give me a holla. I got your back. Caring regards
Winsome

Anonymous said...

Miss K,

Thanks for allowing me to have a mini dance-a-thon in your office whenever I felt the need. My chicken dance is getting better as a result.

I'll remember you crying, on a tabletop in a lettuce hat for many years to come. It's a shame that the camera crew wasn't available to film that episode. It would have boosted the ratings.

I'll be staying in touch K-master flash! ~ Laura AKA 'LG'

Anonymous said...

Ms. K

Have a wonderful journey, I look forward to traveling with you albeit vicariously... Wheeeee

best
c-

Anonymous said...

It is not surprising that they went all out for you. I know I have missed you, and I am *so happy* for you!!! You have always been inspirational and fun and an all around great gal. Africa will love you too.

xo Amanda

Anonymous said...

well i never saw the pictures before *tear* (as you would say). :) miss ya k-rug...i still never got a good name for you. that sucks. :(
how did you like that taitague sandwich...haha
Chrispy