Saying goodbye

Yesterday my RJ family took me out to lunch to bid me adieu. We went to this very nice Italian restaurant in Exmouth Market where my alkie colleagues proceeded to drink five glasses of wine each during lunch and either a cognac or Baileys for dessert. They worried that I would go back to the states, thinking that I was employed by a bunch of alcoholics, and I assured them I wouldn't. I just decided to write about them in my blog so you can come to your own conclusions.

Jenni couldn't stay long, so they decided to present me with my going-away gifts first. They handed me a card, which they had all signed and added personal notes. Fran wrote that she was going to miss hearing, "Shut up, Fran!", which admittedly, flew out of my mouth on Tuesday after she dissed my taste in jewellery eleven too many times. Then Keya handed me two packages, each neatly wrapped in my December article torn straight from the magazine. I really find out what they think of my writing now. The presents were a piece of jewellery from each day of the photo shoot. The first was this massive, gaudy, multi shades of green necklace. It is intense. Diana helped me come to the conclusion that I can only wear it when I'm naked, but even then it might be over the top. But that's all OK because Lianna wore it in the photo shoot, so I can pretend I'm Britain's Next Top Model! From Day 2, I received the CUTEST pair of pink earrings, ones I seriously adored. They're hard to describe, but they're very girly, very frilly and decidedly me. And they match my pajamas so I can even wear them to bed!

I wrote them all cards before I left, and inevitably, all of the cards at Sainsbury's were various shades of pink. I knew Ash wouldn't mind. You know you've grown extremely comfortable with your boss when you find yourself writing 'Cheeky Bastard' on the front of her thank you card. She loved it. She said that she would write me a glowing letter of recommendation whenver I need one. I love her. I love them! I'm so sad!

Fortunately, we have one more shindig tonight - the annual office Christmas party. It's taking place at a bowling alley. Honestly, I thought the Brits were a bit more classy than us, but obviously I was wrong - we're on the same level. They assured me that things will get more exciting after a few drinks and karaoke rounds. Since I don't drink, I suppose I have the luxury of sitting back, relaxing and watching them dance on tables.