Dear Goob,

I feel like this name is appropriate because, although you were my first boss, you also became a person near and dear to my heart. Additionally, "goob" is a perfect word to describe your character. You might have been grumpy sometimes, but at the end of the night, you'd always try to make everyone laugh before they went home.

The first time I ever worked with you, you kind of intimidated me. I mean c'mon man, crack a smile for crying out loud -- especially when I'm not starting the convo. I made some quick first judgments but, nevertheless, began a conversation. It was interesting how talkative you were and how you just dove into the conversation. I guess my trust is easily given because I thought you were pretty cool. Not that cool though. So don't tease me for saying that!

It wasn't long until you became the boss and began calling the shots at our tiny little sandwich shop. Honestly, I don't even know how I survived under your command. My confrontation skills at the time were lacking, but, hey, it was my first job EVER and it taught me many odd skills that have come in handy. All that aside, I believe the best way to describe you is a giant teddy bear. Even though you come off as stern, you're truly a kind and sarcastic soul.

The laughs we had made work a lot better and made the time pass quickly. The pranks we played and the harsh roastings we all endured made for an interesting work experience. I could always take a joke but I could also fire back with some sass of my own. Seriously, I don't think I could have survived work without all of that laughter.

It wasn't only the jokes though, it was also the serious moments. The moments where I was stressed about school or dealing with the obstacles life tossed my way, you were there. I remember after one of my first days of my Junior year of high school, I came to the store crying. The stress of life had finally introduced me to anxiety, and I did not handle it well. You gave me comfort about the future, showed me the confidence I couldn't muster myself, and gave me a harsh talk about reality and facing the "real world". In the most backward ways, you taught me some life lessons I will never forget.

I miss having you as my first boss. I am happy to be where I am on my career path; however, I don't think I could forget how happy you were when you saw my progress. It is so nice to know people enjoy seeing me succeed and ask me to stop by the store and talk about life. I'm happy that you like to see how I've grown in the "real world," and I truly appreciate the time I spent at my first job with you. While there were tough times, I truly will cherish the memories and friendships I gained there.

So thank you for being the toughest teddy bear and for giving me all the advice I needed to hear. Stay golden.

Love,

Paige