It was official and the paperwork was being done. I now had to plan my last weeks left in Canada. There was lots to do and many people to spend time with.

Last days at Pivot

The news was a surprise but the team was very supportive and excited for me. They took me out for lunch and got me a delicious cake, local toronto shirt and a memorable munny vinyl toy. They even pranked me one morning by wrapping my entire desk in newspaper. They couldn’t make a co-worker feel any more appreciated. I closed the office on my final day and it was just the movie ending or a series finale —I turned the lights off, took a few minutes to take in the last moments and locked up one last time.

Friends

My calendar was filled with farewell meals and meet ups with my closest friends. I’m blessed to have so many close friends and I couldn’t leave without spending some time with them. I had wonderful conversations and everyone was so supportive and proud of me. I am so happy and touched by these last days in Canada. But I knew this wasn’t a goodbye… it’s just a “See you later” as friendship may fade with distance but once together again, it will be just as strong as the day we last saw each other last.

Family

Without a doubt, I will miss my parents and sister on this journey. I’ve never lived away from home except for the occasional vacation. I gave them hugs before I left home for the first time and it did get emotional. I know I will cherish family time even more now. I may even miss my parents nagging at me or my sister bickering with me. It’s time to grow up.

During this period, I had the most unique mix of emotion that I’ve ever experienced before —joy, excitement, fear and sadness. I don’t think it’s fully sunken in… Just like when you’re travelling and having a blast, you don’t always realize that happiness until it’s gone. But I know I am so thankful for everyone’s support, kindness and all the wonderful memories I’ve shared. You will all be missed and here goes nothing…