So it was a little déjà vu-like. Same venue only five years later. And the place was remodeled and new ownership/name. But overall pretty much the same.
I couldn't help noticing the differences. The company was all women both now and then. Except now we are all engineers and before more liberal arts group. Before we just got drinks and maybe splurged for an appetizer to share. This time it was drinks before the dinner reservation and the company picks up the tab. BTW the mussels in the creme sauce we shared as an appetizer was so good I didn't have much room left for my French entree. And if I really think about it I was just as stressed about my job then as I am now. It was just before I didn't realize it wasn't that bad but have since picked up skills to deal with all the demands so in the end, even though it's different levels of work demand the stress level is similar.
Besides the company I really took stock of myself and the changes. Financially it's much better - student debt is gone, retirement is growing, I bought my place. Career wise I'm on a path up the corporate ladder and have the opportunity to influence a ton of items I hold dear - including women in my field - need to advocate.
I've stepped back and made some lifestyle changes - less quantity on the social calendar and more quality. I cut drinking out pretty much - maybe a social drink a month. Separating work life from free time and scheduling me time.
I do miss the old gang as we all moved on and away and don't see each other much anymore. But I enjoyed having that era and really enjoy where I am now. A nice note to end the evening on.
And a really nice note for tonight. I was just running to catch my bus (after I rode the subway to my stop). And my bus pulls away just as I run up. Bummer. But two minutes later a second one comes (I should have waited for 15 minutes) and there is barely anyone that boards which means we quickly overtake and pass the first bus and I get home much faster!
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