Two Christmas Parties and a New Job

'Tis the season for company Christmas parties... of 'Holiday' parties if you need to be politically correct. They can range from a potluck in the office, to a formal affair, all depending on how the company likes to do things. Or, sometimes, just due to who's in charge of it that year.

This year was kind of interesting. I got the whole range in two days... from two companies, obviously... but one of them was NOT where Eric and I currently work. That was part of what made it interesting.

But let's start with my A&F party. Since we're such a small company, Steve keeps things simple. Which is nice. We do more than a potluck... we figured it out last year she we took an afternoon off and went bowling with a nice lunch beforehand. It might sound corny, but since it's just the employees, there's good camaraderie and lots of just laid back fun. And yes, we get alcohol. So that was on Wednesday afternoon.

Last night, Eric and I crashed a party where neither of us work. But of course, there was more to it than that. So jumping ahead, I start a new job on Monday! (SURPRISE!) I'm getting back into the development world and I cannot wait! I've heard nothing but amazing things about the company I'm going to work for, and I think I got a preview of it at their party last night. Late last week, I got the invitation to attend, which surprised me, but I wasn't about to say no. I did, at least, know a couple of people already from previous places of employment. So it wouldn't be completely awkward.

Oh, and did I mention it was cocktail/formal dress? Yeah... so it didn't matter who I met... I won't recognize them on Monday. But it was a really nice event... quite a way to be introduced into a company culture! Eric and I sat down to eat and then another couple came and asked to sit with us. Turned out to be the COO. He talked to me quite a bit and was all sorts of excited about the company and me coming on. The CEO later touched base with me, as well - we had met during the interview process. And his wife was VERY pregnant with their 7th child! So family/work life balance... check! The whole evening was a casino them, so very social - actually a great way to meet people informally. I actually had a really great time!

So yeah... I start a new job on Monday. More to come on that, obviously. After last night, I have no doubt I made the right decision in making the move. I'm even more excited now!