It is the end of an era!
Today was my last day at Specsavers, after two and a half years.
Words can't quite describe the torrent of emotions that I felt today; excitement, sadness, regret, doubt, anxiety, happiness and all the ones in between.
It hasn't been the easiest of the two and a half years, but it has been very memorable.
I started my life at Specsavers as a northerner overwhelmed by the south. It was quite an adjustment.
At first I found the south to be quite a harsh, unsociable place but now, now it's my second home.
I've made some wonderful friends down here and it's very hard to say goodbye. Very hard.
Yes, we've all had our ups and downs but that's life. It would be pretty boring if everyone got along alright all the time. Arguments, tiffs and fall outs make life and friendships exciting!
I can honestly say I would never change the guys at Specsavers, they are wonderful people of all different personalities and walks of life.
That goes for all my friends down here, who I know from outside of Specsavers.
The term "friends" doesn't quite cover it, many of my "friends" I actually think of as family and life without them is going to be so hard!
A couple in particular I will mention, not to single anyone out or make others feel less loved, but these are remarkable people.
Kelly for one. She is a real jewel. She is my sister and I love her so much. She is the kind of person who would give you her last pound. She is so selfless and caring that some people do take advantage and that's not right. I can't thank her enough, she has been there for me through thick and thin. From the break up of my marriage to me moving house (several times) to other personal ordeals that I sharnt mention. I can't thank her enough or her family. They took me in when I needed a home and treat me as one of their own. Her mum, sister, nan and nephew all have a special place in my heart and I love them all loads. Kelly, you know I will miss you and I'm always here for you!
Zoe is next. I met Zoe through work and straight away we hit it off, from Michelle McManus comments to sexual innuendos to inbetweeners bingo with Davide. She again is very special to me. I am so fiercely protective of Zoe and would kill for her. She had been a true friend and stood by my side in the hardest of times. She's not had an easy time as of late but she's stronger than she realises. Zoe, Sam is so lucky to have you and he knows it. You're going to make a wonderful journalist, you already are!
Again I'll miss you and love you loads but I will always be here for you!
Claire is another one. She has been great to me, again taking me in and making me part of her family. Her daughter holly is beautiful and I do think of her as my own niece! She is adorable and cheeky and lovely, a real credit to you Claire. I can't thank you for all you have done and I know you've had a rough time too recently but you're so strong and you will come out the other end stronger than anything!
The list goes on of all the special people down here: Davide, Natalie, Hannah, Tim, Beki, Cat (who abandoned me for Ireland! Gr lol)
And all my work friends: Aliya, Tania, manish, Ozy, James, Jamie, Amanda, mark, Jo, Joanna, Ashley, Charlie, Carlie, Lucy.... Anyone whose name I've forgotten in so sorry but I'm so emotional and tired, my brain isn't working!!
I will miss you all so much! Don't get me wrong, I'm not dying! It sounds like I'm writing my ugoogley (zoolander quote right there). But I think it's important how much you all mean to me and how grateful I am.
Thank you for all my cards and gifts and lovely notes.
It's not the end of me though, you WILL see me again (unfortunately for you lol)
It's too hard to say goodbye, so....
A bientôt!!!!
Love Kim xxx
Ps, I will probably write another blog soon about my week up north before my training. Not doubt filled with more tears and emotions!