Moving on

Mike states:
I was finding work really frustrating. I needed something more satisfying. So many times I found I had to bite my tongue. Well enough became enough. I decided in June 2011 that I would give another 12 months of my life to the job I used to love, then stop and travel around Europe.
However I did not consider how difficult it was going to be to leave my family behind even if it was going to be for a short period. Plus, now I have stopped work my personal drive is still there searching for action. So my trip will now encompass a hospitality research project that will revolutionise the pub/restaurant business. But more on that later.

Reflections on the past week

Jacqui states:
This was my last week in work.  I had a final hand over meeting with Pat on Monday.  I hope I have left the course in a manageable form for others to take over but I am also aware that I have been running this course for so long now that a lot of the information is second nature to me and it is not always easy to capture everything on paper.  Still I will at least be around to answer any queries via e mail etc. Tuesday: Daxa, my closest work colleague came into work - we are going to miss each other.  Twelve of us went out at lunchtime to the Mainwaring - our original Friday lunchtime pub.  It was good to go back there for a final meal.  Mike came to, and it was nice to have him around when I was presented with some leaving presents for the van  - a door mat and barbeque and some wine.  I do get rather embarassed with this type of thing.  It is lovely to be remembered by people but I do feel I am the lucky one who is about to embark on this adventure. Thursday: Pat had arranged for us to go to Hoar Cross Hall for an 'away day'.  The day gave us time to reflect on our courses and postgrad education but for me it was a special time that I could spend with colleagues I have worked close with over the past twelve years. Again I was embarrassed by their kind words and gifts.
Friday, my last morning at Keele.  It felt very strange buckling up my seat belt to drive into work knowing that it will be the last time for some months.  In the afternoon I went over to the practice.  Half way through surgery I was pulled out and told to go reception for another presentation from both the doctors and practice staff.  I really dont feel I deserve all this attention but at the same time it is nice to know that your work has been appreciated.
Today is Saturday and although this would be a non working day I have woken up thinking that I am now no longer tied to driving into work each day.  It is a lovely thought.  I cant wait to get away now but it is still two weeks away.  Looking forward to seeing Richard and Louise next week though.

New blog, new life

For those who are not aware Mike and I have decided to take some time off work and travel around Europe in a motor home we bought last Easter. The last month has been a mad time packing Mike's house up so that we can rent it out whilst we are away.  Furniture has gone in all directions, mainly to our respective children but a special thank you goes to my Mum who has allowed us to store a lot of stuff in her garage.  Animals were a tricky problem.  1. it is not easy to give them away and 2. who wants to take on such a long term commitment.  Thanks due this time to my sister Cathy and husband Martin who have taken Tessa in.  I shall really miss her; we procrastinated for a long time as to whether we should take her with us but overall decided that it would be unfair to her if she had to be left in the van for any extended periods, particularly if it was hot.  Richard and Shona have taken the cat in.  When I left Hebble last she looked really content sleeping in the sun on their bed.