"You're making a big mistake!"

Yep, that's what my boss wrote in my going away card.  He also said, "but you'll be welcomed back."  I really need to take stuff like this as a compliment but if people knew how much I question myself, especially on big decisions, they would know this is not a good thing to say to me.  When I left Treasury, I had a co-worker who said that I was making a mistake and he also made it personal, saying I was basically betraying my then boss.  Thankfully, no one has done that yet here.  Oh, and this week my boss also has made more than one reference to indentured servant-hood, bemoaning why it is no longer in existence.  Do you see what I'm dealing with here?  Every day someone tells me "it's not too late to change your mind." 

To be fair and balanced, I also have a number of folks, the ones I truly admire, that have said, good for you, good decision, you'll never regret it, you're really smart for doing this, etc.  And some great friends at work who understand and are celebrating with me.  The gal who is going to bear the brunt of my absence picked out some wonderful going away gifts for me - a DC hikes book, a gift certificate to Sports Authority, family friendly trail mix, tea, a mug that says "you rock," and some spa stuff (soap, nail polish, etc).  She said the hiking gifts were for spending time with my family and the spa gifts were for the "me" time that I will hopefully now have.  So sweet. 

We had a going away lunch today at Old Ebbitt and then cupcakes back at the office when they gave me the gifts and the card.  Yesterday was the 12 year anniversary of the start of my government career.  I feel a completeness at leaving at this time.  One of the major crisis programs that I worked on has no come to an end and I don't feel like I'm leaving mid-project on anything really. 

Only three days left in the office.  I will definitely miss the projects and coming into the city and the friends I have here.  But I'm sure I will be so busy with the kids and using my gifts in other areas of my life that I won't have much time for longing for the old days.  I suppose it is nice to know, however, that if I do decide to change my mind, I'll be welcomed back. 

It's official!

I'm quitting my job.  I told my boss today.  He took it okay.  Basically, he wasn't happy (I'm taking that as a compliment) but he understood.  I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders and the nervousness I've been feeling all summer is gone (at least for now until I have to start thinking about starting a business).

I'm sure I'm going to analyze things more (like people's reactions) so I'll post more thoughts later but for now it's off to Pine Springs Camp!