I'm getting ready to retire this summer. I had 2 big decision points in my career. With both, just when I thought I had enough, I got offered a great assignment that I knew I would enjoy, so I decided to stay in each time. Looking back over 23 years, 2 hiring booms and one furlough period later, I'm glad I stuck it out. Lots of new pins in the map, great people to work with, and some fantastic stories to tell when I'm old and gray. Sorry--getting a little misty-eyed there...

Besides...it sure feels nice knowing I'll have a check always there, no matter what happens--furlough, medical, etc.