Here we are. The end of an era. My last day of work. I’ve had 2 full months to prepare for my departure from ACS, but the amount of time has almost made it harder. It’s like pulling a band aid off – if you do it slowly, you think it might hurt less but it actually ends up drawing out the pain. This last week I’ve been far more anxious than I thought I would be. Waking up a full hour before my alarm for the last week, trouble emptying my head at night, a twisty stomach, and a sudden outbreak of canker sores (I swear I haven’t touched any nuts or chocolate in the last 2 weeks!) are physical reactions I never thought I’d have.

Yesterday was the day I was dreading most. Saying goodbye to my boss. We both agreed that our exit lunch was strange and that neither of us knew how to have closure on our 5+ year relationship. We even had lunch at the same restaurant where 5 years earlier he asked me to apply for the director role. It didn’t help. We have been each other’s workplace support systems. We’ve been each other’s rock through years of ups and downs. How do you find closure on that? When he left yesterday, it was the last time I would see him in the office as his employee. There were tears. We hugged. He has been so much more than a supervisor to me: he’s been my mentor, role model, and friend. Aside from supervisor, those roles he has played won’t change, but it will be a transition that will take some getting used to.

ACS is really where I grew up. I came to this organization as a fresh 22 year old, newlywed, recent college grad, and pretty new to the real world. I leave a 28 year old, mother, homeowner, experienced professional, with a career. Thanks for everything, ACS. It has been an incredible ride.