You know, the end of the season. Party time. The end of the season means everyone who can throws a party to say good bye to friends and co-workers. Some, we’ll never see again–they move on to other parks, other jobs, retire. Others, we’ll see next year, or at the next park. Then there are the ones we meet up with during the off season whenever we can.
While I’m not saying that park rangers throw the best parties on earth, I am saying we certainly know how to improvise, and how to create something from nothing. With two days notice, we can prepare the biggest fire pit in the history of the universe, scrape together some pretty darn good curry, make a killer chili, or even a pie, with what is left in the pantry that we’re trying to “eat down” because we’re leaving. And most of us DON’T live in a travel trailer–most live in government housing, those tiny little cabins or apartments.
We all work long hard days making the park safe, creating a memorable time for our visitors, greeting the public and answering their questions. We can go days on end without seeing our friends who work just down the road. But mention the word PARTY, and we are there.
I love the parties, the food, the fellowship, the beer, the fun. There are more to come in the next two weeks. Love the parties, yes. But it means goodbye. And that is the hard part.
Gaelyn says
Darn it, I missed this party. When are there more? Maybe I should finally have an Open House party in my backyard at the fire pit.
Judy Bell says
You’re certainly welcome to join me for a service center parking lot party! 😛