Going into a new chapter of my life

It's almost here.

After working in the IT world for over 40 years, I'm about to be retired!!!

WOO-HOO!!!!

(It's not quite here - my last day is January 17 2025. But it's pretty durn close.)

On my career:

I've never been one of those people who dug into the guts of PCs or messed in networks. I've always been working in software - VERY LARGE software systems. Mostly large finance systems for BIG companies, usually international ones. I learned a number of programming languages over the years, starting with COBOL and Assembly and IBM JCL to where I am now, writing some Oracle SQL along with HTML and other things specific to tools the company may use. I also got trained as an Oracle database administrator, though I never worked as one. 

These days while I can do all those things, I mostly work with my user community and do a lot of analysis into solving their needs with the tools we have in house. I've done some big presentations at major Oracle conferences on how we implemented and used software, did a big one in Las Vegas this past July. (I hate Las Vegas with a white hot hate. I never want to go back there again!)

I'm retiring as the most senior IT person in North America support the worldwide finance software for a division of a company that was once known as I've Been Moved. I gave them 6 months notice of my retirement date, saying I would train a new person. And guess what? They haven't started looking for someone yet! 

A number of my colleagues have been very kind and will obviously miss me. I'm GOOD at my job!

A work colleague, my favorite database administrator, sent me this:

Dear *******,

As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt New Year greetings to you. May this year bring you abundant joy, good health, and the fulfillment of your cherished dreams as you transition into a new and exciting chapter of your life.

Working with you has been a privilege and a deeply enriching experience. Your dedication, expertise, and kind spirit have left a lasting impression on all of us. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and the many invaluable contributions you've made.

As you retire this January, I hope you embrace this well-earned time with the same passion and grace you've shown throughout your career. Wishing you happiness and success in all your future endeavors!

With gratitude and warm wishes,

R****** K**********

I was very touched.

I hadn't planned to work in IT - I have a BA in one of the Fine Arts and have always done some sort of design work. But I fell into it, having taken Computer Programming in the early 80's when I lived briefly in Nashville TN. I'm good at math and logic.

It's supported me and my family well. There were occasional blips, mostly when there were big recessions or a global pandemic, but I've been pretty steadily employed. I kept my skill set up too, which maintained that employment.

I may do some contract work after I retire. Mostly to pay for travel - I want to travel in Europe and see other parts of America. But mostly I'll do things that suit me, like picking up some hobbies I used to do (guitar and pottery), learn to play bridge, do genealogy, sing in multiple groups, and volunteer a LOT. Plus seeing my boyfriend - yes I'm seeing someone regularly!

On the other news, Celia and Theo are still my companions at home. Celia is such a tiny girl! She and Theo get along very well.

Theo and Celia wanting attention as I work

Celia rests before the Christmas onslaught