For many years Pam and I just spoke (I was based
in London). I didn't actually meet Pam until after I had left my husband
and Pam said 'Come to San Francisco', so off I went, travelling on my own for
the first time. I arrived at the bus station near Pam's home and both of
us just looked at each other, smiled and said each other's name. Neither
of us had a clue what we looked like. I would regularly visit Pam and Jay
before my trip to DC.
Over time we would meet up in DC, working and
sharing a room for a few days each trip. It was so nice to have
company and we were good roomies. We would plan our nights
out, picking a nice restaurant as a treat. Typically Pam
ordering a vodka and tonic for me, after many confused looks when I tried.
Coming into to watch 'Law and Order', not sure how we got into that
habit. She can pack for a
week with carry on luggage only, I don't have that skill.
Pam and I, with others found ourselves in DC at
the time of 9/11. Each morning Pam and I would go out in the dark to
talk the FBI agent into letting us into the building so we could
update/email the firm about access etc. This time a British accent was
helpful. My parents were not only relieved to see me when I got home, but also
thankful to Pam that I was not on my own, as was I.
Having left the firm Pam and I kept in touch,
with visits to London and DC, catch ups by phone and birthday cards.
Pam has also been brave enough to introduce me
to her friends, watching her son play football (soccer), shouting encouragement
from the line and recently Pam agreed to meet up with my friend in
SF, knowing they would get on There is never a worry about Pam meeting my family and
friends (she is interested in them and joins in whatever is going on), even though she may
not get what is being said. Apparently we talk too fast.
Over the 20 ish years Pam and I have known each
other she has not changed, still smiles (mostly), remains calm and carries on.
We have shared fun and not so fun times in our lives, but our friendship
has remained.
Pam is great company and a lovely friend.
It is always good to see her.
It has been wonderful to work with Pam and be a
little part of her world outside work.
Pam, enjoy retirement, not getting up early to
work DC hours with the difficult commute to your office...........
Take care
Nicola xx
NICOLA O'SHEA
No comments:
Post a Comment