i miss being ‘at work’

Yesterday we celebrated one of my girl’s birthday, it was of course a virtual get-together because it’s the new normal, let’s live to it. It was actually a surprise meet which I asked one of my team lead to organize. Felt somehow transported back to the work place where we normally celebrate birthdays with cake and food trays. We sang happy birthday and Marj suddenly turned emotional, I held my tears because I terribly miss them and occasions like this. I know that my work relationship to my staffs were at times rough because I purposely put a wall so that everyone still stays professional but heck at the end of each work day I still want us to be friends. And I miss eat outs and coffee dates and all the socials back when we we’re all still reporting on site.

With the recent reports about the declining numbers of Covid-19 infected daily, and the government plan to ease the quarantine restrictions (yet again) because businesses are suffering especially the shopping centers and restaurants, I dunno but are we really hustling things to go back to normal because the other countries are into it already. Is Philippines really doing success now in curbing the spread? Honestly, I don’t trust this government enough so I’d rather stay put, observe, be cautious, be healthy & content on the new normal, I don’t care if the forthcoming holidays will be just the same as last year and that parties and gathering will be limited. Let’s just take care of each other by doing what is best, to stay home until herd immunity is achieved.

So, while I’m musing at my home desk and alternately cleaning my phone albums, these photos deserve to be here, while I will continue to miss dressing up, office events and socials.

birthdays after birthdays

and more birthdays

and so much more, birthdays. 

events after events 

de-stressing Fridays

company anniversaries 

and work anniversaries

and themed parties 

and the countless Christmas events every day of December.

I miss my colleague and kumpadre Atoy,

I miss our office banters and dinners with Mrs. C.

December 2019, the last time we were able to party non-stop. 

Mau’s birthday in March 2020 was the last time we were able to celebrate physically, and February 2020 was the last company socials we all attended.

 

 

P.S. Anyhow, you know what I just remember that ze husband and I were supposed to fly back in Singapore last May 2020 but pandemic happen so the trip was cancelled. Hay!

P.P.S. And yes, I’m blogging my way in between work and my pursuit to lodge something formally. I’m blogging more becos I need some form of diversion (again, becos I’m undecided for reasons I don’t know what good it will bring me subsequently). The narrative part annoys me more. Ö

 

 

 

 

of gratitude | my 15th anniv

I asked my lady staff to order lunch for 8 pax last week and all the while she thought I’m having luncheon meeting not until I emailed the girls that lunch is on me that day, they were all extremely surprised! 😀

The lunch treat was extended to a refreshing mid-afternoon snack, each was handed halo-halo from Razon’s. I could see their smiles from ear to ear; they were silently rejoicing over that fancy cold treat and mumbling about what the occasion is. I returned a smile when someone from my pack dared to ask, I was still not giving them any clue. I just want them to savor the day feeling good tho puzzled about the whole thing. Inside me I really want to share my blessings and send thank you to people who are making everyday at work a sunny day. I want to express my happiness, which being surrounded with hard working dudes was a major relieved when goings get a bit rough.

Before that day ended, I sent them a no-subject email, categorically a spam-like mail, which made their heart beat faster. A goodbye note? Resign na ba si Ms. E? That was their first reaction, they worriedly howl until they got the message clear.

I’m reposting the content of my email here…

 

Sometime last week I marked my 15^th year anniversary here in the company, and tho with the current position now some of you don’t know my humble beginning, I started just like some of you who run errands, who routes documents and who had a long affair with the copy machine. 

I tell you now, work life wasn’t easy especially with my previous Alpha boss who’s commandeering and all, I may have learned everything the hard way but I have no regrets because there is no real shortcut to anything or to anyplace, you always have to take one step at a time and remember that your journey to a thousand miles must begin with a single step. 

As I marked this milestone I’d like to share you something to ponder, I hope you’ll pick up at least a thing or two here. 

Don’t be troubled with mistakes. When you make one, don’t blame yourself too hard because it will make you feel bad more. Instead, be ready to cope with making mistakes appropriately –honestly admit it and try to not to let it happen repeatedly. Nobody is perfect…but do not misuse this to excuse your weaknesses. 

Attitude is everything. When I was your age, many people would complain I have attitude –maybe I do. I was inconsiderate and obnoxious sarcastic as what they’d refer me to. I have to agree a bit and oppose the most because I’m no pleaser by any means. I thought I’m just being myself and it’s good. At the latter part I realize that being “yourself” is an excuse that cuts you off from growth. Don’t allow this mantra to limit you and your capabilities. You need to evolve, be your best self!  

I love what I do. Like most of you I came here to work for money, that is the most common brain set we all have, correct me if I’m wrong. Thus, in many times dedication was compromised when we do not get what we think is just right for us. What we’re blinded at, what was our honest goal when we accepted the job? Achievement, progress…and to reach those, dedication must be honest and concentrated. Love what you do everyday if by now you see yourself doing the same old thing for the next couple of years. Keep in mind that a lack of it encourages flaws to creep in. 

I wish I can share you more but I’d like to believe that you’re all-grown up, brace by your own uniqueness and wits, and what works for me may not work for you. I always believe that no two battles are the same. Lastly, wherever you go, whatever you do and whoever is your audience be; always bring your own sunshine!

 

The following day, it was their turn to surprise me, and they succeeded with cake and greetings.

I couldn’t be thankful enough, you’re the sweetest girls! ♥