Who knew meeting my boss 2 years ago at my Old Navy interview, she would mean this much to me. I just wanted to show some appreciation to the most selflessness person I know, Annalee.
She doesn't complain about having to work. I think that's what makes her stand out the most from most people I've worked with. Annie doesn't mind the daily chaos that goes on within our store, and if she does I would have no idea. Her work ethic is so strong, she seamlessly moves through her shift without much bothering her.
The way she is never annoyed or bothered by her staff is one of the reasons she's the best boss around. She doesn't roll her eyes at anyone who is working with her, which helps the flow of our work a lot. Annie also doesn't ever lose her smile. No matter how chaotic a day is or how long her shift may be, she never loses the smile on her face. She makes our customers feel welcome and helps 'work' feel less like work. She doesn't ban having fun at work. If anything, she encourages us to be ourselves and be close to the coworkers around us. Annie does more than just manage our store, she's also a role model. Over the past two years, I can say we have gotten really close
She's familiar with my strengths and weaknesses, and always encourages me to pursue them. She's honest with me. And knows the difference between the times when I need her to be straight forward with me and the times when I need a reminder to get it together. She NEVER hesitates to call me out when I need a little attitude adjustment, and never lets me get down on myself without a little word of encouragement. But that's only one of the ways she makes me a better version of myself. When I'm feeling unconfident, Annie is quick to remind me of my strengths, and very quick to pull me out of my pity parties.
She offers me a safe place to come to when I'm struggling and don't know where to turn. She scolds me, sure, if that's what I need – she is gentle and compassionate when I need nurturing, just like my mother would. She keeps me strong, who took my mother's place since she isn't here anymore. Who has always loved me as if I was one of your own since I met her, and some days make me really believe I am.
One of my favorite things about Annie is that she says what's on her mind. She's blunt, and anyone who knows Annie knows this about her. And although it may have hurt my feelings once or twice, I needed her honesty. No one gets anywhere in life by being babied, and I sure as hell don't want to be oblivious to my shortcomings. Her hugs bring a comfort that I can't find anywhere else, sharing painful stories of her past with me and encouraging me with an arm over my shoulders.
So Annie, thank you for being you. You are the woman with kind eyes and a strong heart, a laugh that lights up a room, and a smile that comforts me in my darkest moments. Every single ounce of who you are, you have brought joy and comfort. You have made average days more enjoyable and bad days better. You are my rock, constantly and steadily supporting me no matter what, and without you I would crumble. You'll truly never know how much I appreciate you.
