The Retirement Quilt Story

My boss announced in June he was going to retire at the end of March 2010. It left me plenty of time to plan and piece a signature quilt for him. Then, upper management in its stupidity starting downsizing and it affected our area. My boss protested and did his best to keep all of us on staff, but his argument fell on deaf and stupid ears. Given that and the change in business environment, he struggled.

I thought it best to get the quilt done early -just in case - and finished it when I was home after surgery.

Then he was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. His chemo starts after the new year, but he stated he was going to work until today.

For some reason, I brought the quilt into the office yesterday. The weather forecast for his hometown was nasty, so he decided at 11:45 am to leave at noon yesterday and probably not return today. I dashed out to the car, grabbed the quilt, corralled all my co-workers and cornered the boss in his office.

He protested. He didn't want any send-off, luncheon, gifts, etc. - nothing. But the minute he opened the quilt his eyes filled with tears when he saw all the signatures and well wishes.

Later, he phoned a co-worker to discuss a case. She told me he was still shocked by the gift and very pleased to have it.

So ends the story of the retirement quilt that was finished five months ahead of schedule and delivered a day early just because I had a hunch.

Happy New Year!
Hugs,
Cathy