Free Bird

Big news for the Woodruffs!  Denny retired on Friday, November 1st, 2013.  It was quite a big deal.  Dana came home from college and Dan left school early.  We were shown into a conference room crowded with many of Denny's work friends. 

He was given numerous awards, certificates, and a special coin for 36 years of meritorious service.  Congresswoman Diane Black sent him a flag that had been flown over the capital.  His boss gave him a pewter, commemorative antique plate that celebrated 200 years of the Corps of Engineers. 

Denny was given time to give a goodbye speech.  He talked about the many opportunities that he has had and the people he has met along the way.  It was very well done.  Then, without his knowledge, we had arranged for the rest of the Woodruff 4 to speak. 

Dana is terrified of public speaking but she was the first to stand before the crowd.  She gave a poignant and sweet little speech to her Dad telling him how proud of him she was.  Then thanked him for all that he has given her.  I watched his eyes water as she smiled at him. 

Then, Dan took the floor.  He spoke about the move to Nashville and how it not only gave his Dad a better opportunity but him as well.  He talked about the places he remembered visiting because his Dad worked out of town.  He was only four when Denny worked in Mississippi but Dan clearly remembered getting bit by fire ants.  When the laughter subsided, Dan said, "I'm proud of you, Dad." Denny's eyes watered some more.

I went last.  So many memories were flashing through my mind.  I spoke of the trips we made for his job interviews; role playing scenarios to help him get to the next level.  I spoke about driving to Mississippi in 103 degree heat with a 4 year old, a 6 year old, 2 yorkies and a rabbit; unable to turn the car off at restroom stops because the animals would overheat.  In closing, I said, "We are the Woodruff 4 and we stick together."  I looked at Denny and said, "Whatever challenges you face ahead, we are with you."  His eyes watered some more.

In closing, his boss said a prayer for his health and wished him happiness.  A receiving line formed and all of his friends went through wishing him the best.  Everyone had cake and punch.  It was a fine ending for a wonderful career.  Well done, Denny, well done!

On Monday, Denny started his 6th and last round of chemo.  Dr. Murphy told him he looked terrific.  He feels good and has lots of plans for the coming month.  Time for him to fly.  He's a free bird!