Today was my last day at my job. The people I work with are usually voices on the phone, or email conversations. Our Head office is 3 hrs drive away so I rarely get to see them. Today I had to go and hand in all my equipment and have an exit interview. It was lovely to see everyone and I took them biscuits and Gin for my boss of 10 yrs, and Prosecco for one of the girls who bent over backwards to help sort my appointments out, and pictures of my cat for the lad that took over from her! They gave me flowers and champagne and there was lots of hugging. I managed not to cry, but had a few tears when I got home and read all the lovely things they wrote on my leaving card. At times like these my hubby always reminds me of this quote by Anatole France
All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another.
Not sure what I will do next, but now to have a bit of time off.
fraggle 
A lovely rose, FR. Leaving anything, even something you no longer want to do, has its attendant sadness, undoubtedly.
Will you look for another job, are or you in a position to retire?
How about setting up as a professional photographer? i would employ you.
Best wishes, Pete.
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I am going to have some time and start getting a bit more healthy first. Travelling in a car all day and sitting down when with clients, then sitting doing work on the computer, doesn’t lead to a trim waistline! I’m going to walk a lot! Then I will be looking for some part time work, I still need to pull a few pennies in 🙂 I think setting up as a professional photographer isn’t an option, I don’y have much gear, and it’s a swamped profession these days, much competition. Also I don’t feel competent enough, I’m OK for me, but think I’d freak at paying clients being involved! 🙂 Cheers Pete.
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Walking with Ollie every day, 2-3 hours, in all weathers, for four years. It has lost two inches from my waist, improved my breathing and general stamina, and also enabled me to push the walk to 4-6 hours on occasion, weather permitting. No less than 35 miles a week, every week without fail.
Perhaps you need to get a dog! I doubt your cat would like it, but it is the best reason to have to go out.
Regards, Pete.
I know what you mean about photography. I think you are good enough though. A lot of them are pretty crappy, and just do the same old stuff.
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I would love a dog, but have grand travel plans in future, also Skye I think would be affronted! Thanks Pete for your kindness re my photography 🙂
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One of your loveliest, and saddest posts.
The very best of luck with wherever your road takes you next. Just keep your camera and that great “eye” close by!
Great photo CJ
JJ
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Thank you so much 🙂
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I recommend that you spend some time in quiet, therapeutic contemplation with your camera 🙂
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Without a doubt!
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I left the job I did not like much nearly two years ago after ten years and got a lovely send off and howled all the way home..such a bittersweet time…I remember all those colleagues and that time with fondness now but..so glad I left…best of luck Fraggle R, there are great things ahead…looking forward to lots more lovely pictures x
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Thanks Clare, I am liking the ‘blank page’ feeling, I’ve never had a time in life where I didn’t know how to earn some pennies! Am lucky I can stop and take a breath for now.
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Oh Faggy I had no idea you going to be “semi retired” wait till I tell Dave. I’m excited for this new chapter of your life to start, it reminds me of my last day…almost 3 years ago… Boy it goes fast. So congrats, enjoy your down time,remember to inhale..and exhale..and enjoy every moment..till ya sort it all out 🍷💐👏 cheer my Brit Sister
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Thanks Mrs O ❤
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Nicely said, nicely done. Sounds like another door is opening, indeed! Best to you!
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cheers Naomi 🙂
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Oh Fraggy I’m not surprised you have mixed emotions when you worked with lovely people. You will find a new direction in your own time so for now enjoy summer. Sending hugs for those moments when you are missing your workmates & clients ♥ I took early retirement seven years ago and never missed a beat. Everyone said I was much too young, but it gave me an opportunity to get into photography properly. Being self taught, nothing like having ALL day to do it in. The only pro work I do is through Getty Images and the periodic non-solicited use of images from other parties. I would never get into portrait, wedding or animal work…too much grief IMO. That’s just me. Good luck on the next phase which is sure to be much more fun!
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Thanks Mary, (sorry I missed this when you posted!) am in my first week of not working. It’s quite strange and has rained everyday so not great for getting out. But dry today so out with my cameras. Lovely!
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Everything is better with champagne. Be happy. I’m sure you will be.
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Thanks Jay,:) This one is in my spam folder too!! WTF??
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Beautiful image!
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Thank you graham 😀
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Stunning image and a lovely post. Best wishes for this new chapter in your life. I applaud you taking care of yourself. Having your health means everything. Enjoy your walks! (Phil is a keeper. 🙂 )
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Cheers Pam, yes I’m not trading him in yet 😉
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Sad to hear things are coming to an end at your job, but good to see from the comments that a new season is starting for you at the same time. So we follow the seasons of thenlives of others we never get to meet. All the best to you!
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Thanks FD 😊
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Like! Like! Like! Congrats, fraggs! Perfect occasion to open the Veuve. Beautiful picture… one I’m sure will hold a special place in your heart forever. Can’t wait to see what you do next!
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Me too! Cheers Laura x
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I wish a happy time in this new phase in your life, fragglerocking. Congratulations.
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Thanks Francis! (Sorry I missed this somehow!)
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