Mixed Emotions

It is really hard not to have mixed emotions about leaving Azle. Don't get me wrong, I am so looking forward to my new job and starting a new chapter in my life, but it is really beginning to sink in that I will soon shut my office door for the last time. The fact that I am leaving is out, people in the department know, other city employees know, and now people in the community know because my "retirement" made the front page of the local newspaper. When I step outside the security of my office, I see someone coming to me saying goodbye and good luck. I am fielding phone call after phone call from folks in the community wanting to tell me that I will be missed and other nice things. While all this stuff is great, it is the cause for the realization of it all to come right up from behind and slap me right across the face. Jimmy, Kevin and I took Rex out for lunch yesterday. We have all stuck together through thick and thin and it was very nice for all of us to once again be together for the last time. Rex's last official day was last Tuesday. Man, it really doesn't seem real, but we have all been together for the past 9 years. I have made some great friends that I know I will have for the rest of my life...not work friends, but life friends. My heart is heavy at the thought of not seeing them each day. And as I open and shut that door for the last time, I know I've done my best, I know I've made a difference, I know I've done what I could to serve, protect and keep the peace. And as I drive out of the parking lot for the last time, I'll look in the mirror and see the city behind me that has given me the strength and opportunity to take this next step in my career. I'll remember it fondly and will cherish the friendships made and great memories that will last a lifetime.