The lazy days of summer slowly disappear, calendars fill up, networking events are back, schools reopen, sports return, the leaves begin to change, harvest season arrives… and somehow, overnight, we are all back into “real life.”
This September definitely felt like a little more than just a return to routine.
Networking and Back to Business
The event world starts waking up again (never really sleeps) but in September it comes to full fledged life; return of networking, meetings, conversations and catching up with colleagues and industry friends. There is something I really love about September professionally. After the slower pace of summer, suddenly there is energy everywhere again with new ideas, new projects, new venues to discover and, of course, plenty of events to attend!
Speaking of venues… site visits were definitely part of the month’s activities. Freshly renovated spaces always get my attention. As an meeting professional, I can’t walk into a newly renovated venue without immediately imagining what could happen there .. the layout, the décor, the flow, the possibilities… yes, I admit it, I see events everywhere! 😂
School, ouffff the uncertainty & maybe the end of an ERA!?!
This September also brought something much more crude reality, the situation surrounding LaSalle College has been difficult and unsettling. The College faced a $30 million government penalty related to English-language enrolment quotas, and the uncertainty even led to classes being suspended temporarily before a court decision allowed the College to resume operations.
For those of us connected to the school, this isn’t simply a headline. It is our workplace. Our colleagues. Our students. Our community and, personally, it has made me think more in-depth about my future with the school. I have been on the fence about retirement for some time now. Maybe this situation is simply another reminder that sometimes we don’t get to choose exactly when one chapter ends. Maybe life chooses for us or maybe… just maybe… this is a sign. I wasn’t quite ready to make that decision yet. However, this situation ‘forced’ me to do it and as of September 30th (yes on my birthday) I officially retired from school. It was sad, I hurt and I was nostalgic but sometimes one has to do what one has to do.
Harvest & everything fall even some sports squeezed in
September wouldn’t be September without sports starting up again, and the first signs of fall appearing … harvest season. I love this time of year. There is something comforting about the rhythm of it all, fresh produce, beautiful colours, markets, cooking, baking and my nephew’s hockey tournaments beginning. Just getting back into those cozy fall routines and yes folks the the canning and baking is happening. ❤️
A little flashback & fun
September also gave me a chance to look back. I find myself doing that more and more lately.
Looking at where I started, where I’ve been, the people I’ve met, the friendships created, the places I’ve worked, the events I’ve created, the students I’ve taught and the incredible people who have crossed my professional and personal path. Maybe that’s why the retirement question feels a little bigger than simply deciding whether or not to work. It isn’t just about a job. It’s about a lifetime of journeys and that deserves reflecting.
My Birthday month! 🎂🥂
September also happens to be my birthday month, and birthdays have a funny way of making you stop for a moment and take stock. Speaking of family, we also celebrated my husband’s cousin Domenic’s milestone birthday. (welcome to the 60’s club Dom). Another year. Another chapter. More memories. More stories. More adventures and thankfully, still lots of reasons to celebrate! ❤️
Renovations Begin! and because apparently, we didn’t have enough going on… 😂
Phase 2 of the renovations began! 😂 There is nothing quite like adding renovations to an already busy September. The Dust. The Decisions. The Changes. Then more unexpected decisions due to “XYZ’. This is when we suddenly realize that a simple renovation is never actually that simple. I have to admit, I love seeing spaces transformed probably another occupational hazard from spending my life growing up in construction and imagining how spaces can work for events too!
Getaway
This month also brought an opportunity to escape the everyday routine, both professionally and personally. To one of my NEW favourite spots got to discover Bel Air Tremblant. This was definitely not your traditional getaway experience! Bel Air Tremblant offers some really beautiful and unique glamping options, and I have to admit… I could get used to this version of “roughing it”! 😂 It is funny how a one-night getaway can give you just enough distance from everyday life to see things a little differently. Maybe that’s what September was really about for me, by taking a step back, looking around and appreciating where I am. Reflecting wondering where I want to go/do next.
So here we are this month is over it was packed month when everything restarts/reflections are done… Looks like retirement has come and the universe simply and gently guided me to this.
Whatever happens, one thing I know for sure… I’m not done creating memories yet.
Bring on October! 🍂🥂
