THIS is a Big Deal

Okay, we'll take a break from the kiddies and talk about me just for a second because I am so thrilled I want to share.

Yesterday I got to the office and was handed a parcel from Corporate.  Presents!  I was so excited!  I opened it up and found this:

A beauiful pen, a promotional certificate and an inspirational/educational book.  I was so excited.  You have to work pretty hard and do some pretty darn good business to earn your pen!  But the book seemed like an extra bonus.  I was already touched but then I opened it up and found this:

A personal message to me from our Sr. VP!!!!  I met him a few months ago and had the privilege of a 1-on-1 with him where he took the time to answer all my questions and build a career plan with me, spending over an hour with me.  He is a great guy and I am so blessed to be part of a company that has inspiring leaders who are tangible and truly invest their time and efforts in those who show promise and are working hard to build and promote.  His personal words to me warmed my heart and even brought a tear to my eye.  It validates that all the hard work I am doing is being seen and noticed.  That means a lot.

AND THEN!....
I just received an email from our CEO congratulating me for being selected for a special conference.  There are only 30 people selected to attend and I was one of them, nominated by my supervisor and then hand picked by the VPs.  I am so excited and honored!  To be chosen acknowledges that you have proven yourself and they believe in you for promotion into advanced leadership.  It's 4 days up in Seattle at the end of next month.  I'm going to call it my birthday present.  :)

Needless to say, it has been a great week and I am loving where I am at in my career.  And I have only barely gotten started.