12 Comments
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Jennifer Daigle's avatar

Wow does this one hit me like a ton of bricks (see what I did there?) - I've never been so proud then when I got to be part of your team - I had always admired the dynamic from afar and then got to experience it firsthand. We're both on new paths, but I definitely carry lessons learned from your leadership. Quiet strength, understanding, and the ability to share in a safe space. True trust and leadership. I hope to have that again and I wish you every good thing in this next chapter!!! Always rooting for you!

Bill Battelle's avatar

Hello, Judy - your writing does resonate with me. So much of this piece mirrors my professional career and the way I feel/felt about my most recent team (and, actually, the last one that I had a part in building) - we cared more about each other than the actual job - the job was a common thread that kept us engaged in creating and nurturing whatever project we were working on - but the friendship that bloomed kept us inspired to care.

Rome has a special place in my heart too. My wife and I visited there in 2017 and it was the most incredible vacation we ever took. We especially liked the Italian countryside (we stayed in Umbria most of the two weeks were there), but you described Rome - and the Colosseum in particular - with a fondness and historical meaning that we felt as well.

Beginning again takes courage - much like starting a new paragraph, page, or chapter, as you are so adept at, and the friendships we have help us take those steps - and make a difference all over again - because we cherish and trust those people with our feelings that are close to our hearts.

Godspeed, Judy - you are going to crush this - and your teams (old, and the new one) will help you write your success.

Judith Jaeger's avatar

I appreciate everything you've shared here, Bill, and I'm deeply grateful to you for reading my work and for responding so thoughtfully. Your trip to Italy sounds beautiful, as do your lasting friendships.

Stephanie's avatar

Lovely piece, as always. I have no doubt that your next chapter will be your best one yet, because of the strong foundation upon which you will build it! Ciao, bella!

Judith Jaeger's avatar

Thank you, Stephanie! And, dare I say, because of the cherished friendships, like ours.

Michael Abrams's avatar

Great writing, great pictures, Judy.

Judith Jaeger's avatar

Thank you for reading, Mike! Grateful for you, always.

Kay's avatar

Excellent essay! I've known Judy for about 25 years (she probably knows exactly) and she always made her work ethic seem natural and easy. You wouldn't even know she was being the boss. (Except when she fixed my knitting mistakes (many). Then I knew she was The Boss.)

Judith Jaeger's avatar

This has me giggling, Kay! I think in knitting is the only area where I was truly The Boss with you. You taught me everything I know about my profession—and a lot about life, too. Love you, man.

Jessica Bennett's avatar

You’re going to rock this next chapter 😘

Judith Jaeger's avatar

With you and the family behind me, I will! ❤️

Judith Jaeger's avatar

And I'm always rooting for you, Jenn. I hope you get to experience it again, too. You deserve it. You're on a journey, and i know it's leading somewhere great!