Pastures new

My Witter today is on the subject of The Leaving Do. In this uncertain economic climate jobs are scarce and contracts often shortlived. I'm in the very fortunate position however of having secured a new job and have just enjoyed a fantastic send off from colleagues.

To be honest, I wasn't sure quite what to expect. I'd 'left' once before on a long term secondment and had received cards and gifts galore in the expectation that I wouldn't be returning. Consequently, it could be argued there was no need for another raid on the Tea Money. With that in mind, I was quite prepared for a quiet and dignified exit as I handed over my security fob and ID.

Not so fast me bucko...

There was an emotional gathering in the staffroom with strategically placed banners and balloons and exquisitely wrapped parcels which were genuinely too pretty to open. So far, so normal. Then I was presented with a sketch from a highly talented member of the team who did a nice sideline in art work. Unrolling the scroll I fully expected one of his renowned ballerina drawings but Ohhhhhhhh Noooooooooo. He had drawn a caricature of me as a scantily clad Miss Whiplash type; reclining, horse whip in hand. It was brilliant. It's more than a little out of character for me so it was a real hoot.

If that hadn't happened there was a real risk that I might have had a weepy moment as I was leaving friends as well as colleagues. This sketch though was the perfect antidote to farewell tears.

Later, His Nibs came to collect me and loaded up Marvin although the Ugly Bug would have coped better with the baggage. The livingroom is awash with sparkly bags, flowers, balloons and cards. I'm a very lucky Miss Whiplash.

For my night out I opted for bowling and dinner as I didn't want anything too formal and it was great. I tried really hard to come last in the bowling but alas I couldn't secure the wooden spoon. Close but no cigar.

If my new workmates are half as good as those I leave behind, I'll be fine. If not, then I'll just have to buy myself a little riding crop and live up to my new image.