Wednesday, June 25, 2008

My Sista's

Three very different people, all born in separate countries, brought together through working for Apollo Motorhomes. Anne, a bossy but so wise Samoan, Ivy, a soft hearted, gentle Chinese and me of course, a typical Aussie.

Anne first started working for Apollo in 2005, a few months after my first day. If you asked Anne what her first impression of me was, she'd tell you I was a grumpy bitch that never took the time to look away from my work. Always grumbling about something or other, ignoring all those around me but deep down, I knew she was only jealous because I had spectacular nails :)

It didn't take long for us to click though. Both of us as loud as each other, seeking some fun and happiness in a workplace where we felt lost and alone. Oh, what fun we had (still have but not as often). Both meeting out on our brick wall in the early mornings to have a 'before work chat' and a few smokes. Yes, one of the many things we had in common.

Ivy came along the next year. Shy, lacking confidence and just as lost as we were when we first started working for Apollo. We found Ivy to be a pleasant, caring person and soon she too, became one of the Sista's.

Anne and I, being the motherly types that we are, took Ivy under our wings and soon she was laughing and joking as much as we were. Brimming with confidence and becoming a beautiful, very loved friend. Sitting beside me in the office it wasn't long before Ivy was trying some of the Aussie slang that I used all the time. She now says "no worries" just like a real Aussie which upsets Anne as the Aussie lingo is not so much to her liking.

Working for Apollo. as staff, we are allowed to take a Motorhome away for a weekend with the bigger expense of a normal rental. I knew Anne and Ivy alone, would never have the opportunity to use one of these vehicles (Anne didn't have a license at the time and Ivy was too scared to attempt driving a big six berth), so Glen and I decided to take the girls on a trip they will never forget. Ivy and Anne's faces, when they arrived at home that morning, were full of excitement and eagerness. What a joy it was for Glen and I to see. We headed, the long way around, to our home town of Jandowae. Visited some wineries on the way (two wineries was all it took to get the girl's merry) and they both got to experience country Western Queensland. We had a ball. So much fun and laughter. I know that trip and the memories we created will remain in our hearts forever.

Anne left Apollo last year and is much happier in her work life now than she was at Apollo and now....sad to say, it is Ivy's turn to leave. She is off to Melbourne to be with her partner. I will dearly miss my friend sitting beside me but I know, this is the beginning of another, more exciting chapter of her life. I also know that this isn't goodbye as Anne, Ivy and I, will never be apart in our hearts.

Until next time Sista's.....stay safe and be happy. I love you both.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

I'm touched, I was tearing when I read this. It's grateful for me to meet two of my very best and special friends at Apollo. Both of you become part of my family in Australia. I'm not as lonely as used to be. Thank you so much, my dearest Mummmmmm.......... It's so nice sitting next to you, and sharing everything with you. Love you forever........