The last ferry ride and a new beginning.

Recently, I took my last ferry ride to a job I held for eight plus years.

You see, I worked at a major networks’ Interactive site as a PR director. It has been an extraordinary experience. And extraordinary stressful–demanding I’m out of the house from 7AM to 6PM most days and always a phone call or email away, constantly reaching for my Blackberry.  I am thankful for this job which has allowed me to meet some amazingly talented people. CBS has always had a habit of hiring the smartest people around with incredibly sharp with–many of whom I’m lucky enough to call friends.

You do get to meet quite a few fancy people working for a major television network like LL Cool J, the cast of Big Bang Theory, Ileana Douglas, Jeff Probst, Mary Louise Parker, Rob Lowe, the guys from the band Spoon, and half the cast of Gossip Girl.  And there isn’t a conference I haven’t been to–E3, SXSW, ComicCon, heck, you name it. But honestly, it is the hours spent with co-workers that became friends staying late working on some big announcements. Or sharing excitement with my spokespeople before they get in front of the cameras for an interview.  Or that amazing feeling reading an article that I helped place in the Wall Street Journal or on a nationa morning news show. And I’m thankful for this job because it has allowed me to support my family through some tough times as well.

But it was time to move on. My work/life/blog balance was woefully out of whack. Perhaps that is just the way things are, but all of a sudden it just became too much.  The price to high for my sanity and my health.  And it wasn’t just about me. It was about the Peach. And Eric. Basically, I wasn’t seeing enough of the two most important people in my life. And I knew that that needed to change.

I’m also very lucky to have a dear friend go through the experience almost exactly a year ago. When Alix left her big stressful corporate job, I was so impressed by her grace and joy changing her work life balance and still bringing home the bacon!  She has been truly an inspiration and I’m still proud of her and amazed at how much she’s done during her first year freelancing.

Speaking of freelancing, I start my new consulting gig in a couple of weeks and I’m so excited about it.  The new company I will consult for is one of my favorite companies and run by some of the most talented people in the business. I have to pinch myself to remember that this is my life.

But what to do with this wonderful bit of free time? Well, celebrate of course!

I’m planning on a bit of organizing, a bit of sewing, and a bit of travel. I feel like this little slip of time is a wonderful opportunity to do something a little bit extraordinary.

Like a little jaunt to Paris.

More to come on that. Oh yes, much more about that!  Because I’m leaving today for Paris. No agenda–just a ticket, a hotel reservation and one of my dearest friends.  You can follow my adventure on Instagram and Twitter under MissDottie.  Oh, and there will be adventure. And some fine champagne, I’m sure.

18 thoughts on “The last ferry ride and a new beginning.

  1. Congratulations! It’s scary to make a huge change like that, but good things await! Like…PARIS! Can’t wait to see your adventures thru the magic of Instagram.

    1. Thank you so much! I just got back and am reading these messages. Paris was unbelievable! I hope you enjoyed the pix I posted on Instagram!

  2. Dear Dottie, Congratulations! A new phase of life is upon you. This was a very difficult but wise decision, as you analyzed it yourself! And yes, I am proud of your ‘partner’ having made the same tough decision!
    PS You met cast members of Big Bang Theory?! jealous!

    1. Oh, thank you Brigitte! Your darling daughter has been so supportive and wonderful to help me through this!

      Oh and I’ll tell you all about the Big Bang Theory folks! Good gossip on that one!

  3. Congratulations to you Dottie!
    I left my own corporate/great-perks job 3 years ago, though mine was less voluntary thanks to a lay-off. But it really was the catalyst to a life that is mostly calmer, saner, and more creative. Although I”m doing some soul-searching again this year as some of my freelance work has fallen away, it’s still eye-opening to try and remember my old full-time work weeks and crazy job stresses. It seems like another lifetime. You’re going to love it!!!

    1. Lay offs rock thanks to that nice bit of cash that comes with it! That must have been especially wonderful for the first year with the Bird!

      I know the soul searching lady. I feel that I spent the first part of this year doing just that. And a lot of tears shed about it too. But so happy with the decision. So very very happy!

  4. Major, major congratulations on a job well done, paying more than your share of the dues, and for making that big leap! I believe there is a point we get to when we work very hard when we’re younger that doesn’t need to be replicated once we’ve reached it. We can slow down and recalibrate and still be powerhouses. So happy for you. Have a WONDERFUL trip, and maybe you can use some of that free time to for that drink we need to have! Bon voyage!

  5. CHEERS and BRAVO lady lady! I’m thrilled that you are embarking on a new challenge and even MORE thrilled you are treating yourself to such a well deserved little holiday. I can’t wait to hear all about it!!!!!

  6. Wow, I totally connect with this post! My husband and I have both been independently employed for 2.5 years now. It’s hard not having the consistent paycheck week to week, but you really can’t put a price on TIME. It’s just that simple. Good for you in choosing time and the things that are really important in life!

    Also….I just got back from Paris last month (we also went to London)! It was AMAZING, and I can’t wait to follow you on Instagram (@Stephanie_May) to see your beautiful moments. Food. Food. Food. It’s all about the food! 🙂

    Have a great time!
    Love,
    Stephanie May*

  7. Congratulations! I just put in my 2 week notice today at my “corporate” job and am taking a hiatus, moving to a new state and hopefully getting back to doing what I love (I used to own a vintage shop and would love to reopen it). I am inspired by your post and feel that much more excited about new beginnings. Best wishes to you and your future endeavors.

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