Thursday, December 3, 2009

Thanks, Phyllis!


I've been gradually adapting to the idea of being jobless. My initial panic has subsided and I'm now in a "this might not be so bad after all" mode. As I've said before, I have enough cushion to live for a while -- so why not take a bit of a break?

My coworkers have responded in a variety of ways. The best response so far came from a woman named Phyllis who works on our floor. I've known her the whole time I've worked here and she knows my boss even better, but I wouldn't say she's a close friend -- more of a colleague. So it surprised me when she asked to take us to lunch on Tuesday, and proceeded to treat us to a truly memorable meal!

We went to Marseille, a French place on Ninth Avenue. Phyllis suggested cocktails right away, and we all got martinis. Then she generously suggested everything from appetizers to desserts, as well as a second round of drinks. We finished lunch THREE HOURS later!

To make the day even more memorable, Glenn Close was sitting across the restaurant from us. We didn't speak to her, of course, but celebrity sightings always liven things up. (Wonder if the restaurant serves rabbit?)

I am so impressed with Phyllis' generosity and kindness. When I first started work in New York about ten years ago, we had luxurious meals with our senior editors every once in a while. But as the company began trimming expenses, those little luxuries vanished. It was great to revisit the old days -- too bad it wasn't once again at company expense!

(Photo: Gramercy Park at night, looking toward Irving Place and the Con-Edison building.)

4 comments:

Barbara said...

What a kind gesture. There's nothing better than good food to endear someone forever. I wonder if you will keep in touch with people like Phyllis after you move on?

Several other retirees and I were invited to the holiday party for our old office. When you work with people for so long, there is a natural connection. It will be fun to go to the party and not have to go back to work afterwards!

e said...

Wow! That is a wonderful thing for her to have done! I know you enjoyed that. Perhaps you'll have an opportunity to offer someone the same in the future.

Salty Miss Jill said...

Phyllis sounds like my kinda gal!
Glad you had a grand time. :)

lettuce said...

i'm glad you feel you're adapting Steve. its tough.


sounds like a great evening