I had a really nice surprise today!
There's a younger work colleague, who I've recently become closer to. She was really kind to me last year when I was suffering from 2 years of no room and at the end of the year, she included me in team celebrations, let me leave things in her room, constantly let me walk through her classroom with instruments, listened in sympathy. She was still quite reserved when it came to talking about things as I know she doesn't trust lots of people and is very professional at keeping things to herself. I sent her a card telling her how much I appreciated her friendship at the end of the year. This academic year, we've been sounding boards for each other a few times and there has felt a genuine warmth and trust there which I've been grateful for.
Unexpectedly, this morning, when I did my usual cut through her room, she said she had something for me. When I came back, she said she saw it and had to buy it for me! I was so touched. I asked if I could open it on Christmas day to which she acquiesced.
When I got back to my room, I looked at the labels.
