Wisdom Luncheon and Gift Exchange

I think the luncheon went really well today. We had Joe's barbecue catering. Emily and I left at about 10:45 AM and went to Safeway to get the cakes. Erin Allison and Emily decorated the tables while I got everything organized and together. They brought the food right on time at 12:30 PM. The guy had a really nice cart with slots for all of the items and they were all heated and hot and ready to go. It was very nice. He didn't forget anything. The only thing I was bummed about was that there was only one tray of brisket and we ran out. There was double the amount of chicken and there was supposed to be the same amount of all the meats. While everyone was finishing eating, I got up and did my script. I thanked everyone and welcomed Sam. I congratulated Chris on his wedding. I wished happy birthdays and work anniversaries. I gave Erin May Alger her plaque for 15+ years with the company. I welcomed Rich and said it was his birthday. We sang happy birthday. I handed out $50 Amazon gift cards for everyone who's been with the company for five or more years. Then it was time for the gift exchange. Michael and I never seem to do well on that. I ended up with a birdfeeder that keeps out squirrels. Michael got a wine rack. Emily got some glass bowls and a Starbucks card. Two people brought lottery scratchers and those were sought after. My candles weren't as popular as I thought they would be. I need to come up with something different next year. I was really grateful to Kristina Rivera, who bought a number of things at Sam's Club and that saved me a trip. She also helped with cleanup along with Lisa and Erin and Rich. And Emily, of course. Of course, other people helped, too. I think everyone had a great time!