April 24, 2012
Today was my last day at work for a while – hopefully only six weeks or so, but possibly more. It’s not easy letting go. I love my job and the people I work with – they couldn’t be more supportive. And I know I couldn’t be leaving things in better hands – thank goodness Vanessa joined us in January! I do feel guilty leaving her with it all, but I know she’ll kill me for saying that and that it will all be just fine. And I will do as promised and turn my work laptop and blackberry off on Sunday and will not turn it back on until the doctor clears me. I know that, as a work friend/cancer survivor told me Monday, my job will be to get better.
Before Monday’s surgery I am going to visit my Florida/Tennessee parents Dad and Maggie, and my brother Steve, his wife Kelli and my nephews Hudson and Holden. While it’s not quite the trip I had initially envisioned or would prefer, as I’m going alone, that can’t be helped and it’s still important I go. I need to show my family (especially my dad) that I really am fine and will be throughout all of this. I know it’s especially hard for them being so far away. And I get to see my two precious and rambunctious nephews. And hey, who couldn’t use a pre-surgery tan?
Amy's America 
Precisely, your new job will be for you to get better. While I have my unique charm, I could never replace you @ ALF. (I know you hate seeing that, so I’m being obnoxious, because, well, I can.) Friend, I’ve never let you down before, and I won’t now. We’ll be fine. I promise. Admittedly, you have left some big shoes to fill, and though I’m nearly a foot taller than you, one would think that it would be a simple task to execute. Trust me, it’s not. I’ve wanted my own office for a while, but I didn’t quite want to get one in this manner. 🙂
You know when you watch awards shows there’s usually a random individual — seated next to a star — who wasn’t there moments ago? You know, the ‘seat warmers’? Well, I’m your seat warmer. I’m just here filling a spot that’s temporarily vacant. As a perk, I sit next to the important people for a brief moment so the cameras can pan over a continuous sea of shiny, happy people. In the upcoming weeks, I’ll do my best to fill-in the gap while you’re away. And I’ll be smiling knowing that you’re hard at work at your new job, which is to get better, and you’ll be coming right back — better than ever.
Toodles!
You jerk – making me cry is NOT part of your job! I may have to dock your pay for that! 😉 Seriously, thank you. Can’t wait to be back at work by your side! (I’d say partner in crime but I know someone else has claimed that one with you!) xo