CLAY AND WATTLES

Retirement Lunch

Yesterday Paul and I met around fifty of my former co-workers (how strange to say that) at Catfish Island for my retirement lunch. I was very glad to see so many of the men from the outside crews, from all district offices. Most of the office staff was there, too, and I'd gotten to be with them earlier in the month. It was such an honor. I am definitely not a speech maker, nor have I ever, ever enjoyed getting up in front of a crowd, but I told the ones gathered there that they are like my family and I love them all! I just didn't allow myself to think about exactly why I was there or else I would have been a blubbering idiot. I did tear up a couple of times, and Beck made that "stop that" sound! Good grief, I was emotional enough inside! I've seen, heard, learned, participated in, helped through, been helped through, cried, laughed, celebrated, grieved so much - this was two-thirds of my life. And I saw a lot of life lived there. Being in the job I was, most of my contact was with the employees and I've known all their names, their spouses and kids' names; when the kids graduated, married, had their own children; illnesses, ballgames, school functions. It was a huge responsibility and I'm grateful I had it. God had me in a place He meant me to be and I learned much from these people, and from seeking Him and His guidance, grace and forgiveness. If life situations are a "laboratory," then this was my own test tube from His Hand. I hope I have helped many; I know I have been given strength, courage, laughter and love by them. And I hope those ties go on and on...

Billy presented me with a beautiful Seiko watch, engraved on the back, my name, WECC, 40 Years. Wow! The proverbial watch, but one I will treasure. I had a couple of links taken out this morning at Oakwood. (If you haven't been by lately, like me, they have rearranged the cases and it looks twice as big; lovely jewelry and other gift items, too.) Rachel Jennings came - I was thrilled to see her; she retired three years ago? Yes, I think so, just after Richard did. Pretty, long wrap-around scarf from her, which will keep me warm when walking O. And the Buds. Well, the Buds found this cute plaque at Chez Weenies in FC (Edwina makes many of the plaques, and this one) and it just says "Best Buds." It was just there. One of the girls saw it and knew it was for me. I put it on the wall near my computer here. Beck, Norma, Carolyn, Wesley all signed the back. And Mickie. Bless her heart - she sent an arrangement of fresh flowers - just perfect for the occasion! There were a few people missing, and if I begin to name them, I will leave someone out. They're all dear to me.

Paul and Billy carried on conversation while I went around the tables and talked to everyone and thanked them for coming. I guess Billy got more informed on politics! After the large group was finished eating, Paul and I waited for BJ and Tommy to come for their lunch and enjoyed visiting with them and while they ate, we had coffee.

Carl made a lot of pictures, so I look forward to some more for my album. These will get sent for printing.

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Earlier in the day before lunch, I got a call from the Social Security office in Jonesboro from the representative about my claim. She was concerned with what the weather might be by this afternoon, when we were scheduled to go to the office. The only thing theyoriginally said they had to see was my birth certificate, but she checked and by it being off just one day, it wasn't necessary for them to look at it. So, saved a trip, all done, and just waiting for that first "check!" Very nice to deal with; I never dreamed it would be that easy. She said she had had to help her mother with a lot of this type thing, so she's aware of what has to be done, and was most helpful.

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Quiet afternoon, got a lot done this morning; it's looking snowy, but the temp is still 41. I hope the guys don't have to go out in icy weather. Nor the ladies have to stay and answer phones... Paul is going to the Chamber of Commerce Banquet tonight at the Tech Center.