I have been at this company almost eight years. Today we had a going away party for two of the people who have actually been in my division longer. Now I am officially that person who has been here the longest, in a division that literally started out as five people working out of a supply closet, to several floors, buildings, warehouses, countless people. Yikes.

Rebecca is going to Georgia to be a mom and enjoy sane real estate prices and a quieter life near the other ocean. Chris, who interviewed and hired me, is going to another big retailer about a mile from here. Two of my favorite original coworkers, disappearing. And yesterday, Michelle had her going away party, she, too, leaving to be a mother full time. She actually worked in my immediate group and I get to take on half of her workload.

Can’t say I’m not envious. Big scary changes are incredibly exciting. We have been talking about going to Chicago for a year now, and it’s still at least a year away. I want to go now now now. But we aren’t rich and can’t do it now. Part of it is just an itch to get out of our awful apartment — I know I’ve bitched about it before.

On the positive side, it’s a blessing to have worked so long at a totally safe and secure company where I am well-paid and totally insured. That’s something I’m sure I will remember when we reach Chicago someday.

I am almost done with this.