Reunited and It Was So Much Fun!

Like so many firms, Summer Consultants went through a lot of changes over the past 16 months since the unofficial start of the covid-19 pandemic. We turned on a dime from working in the office each day to working remotely. We continued to complete projects while navigating new recommendations. We even had new employees starting in middle of a health crises. It was tumultuous for everyone, but management was outstanding in helping to keep waters calm with regular status updates, finding ways to keep morale up, and providing flexibility to each person’s unique situation. Ultimately, this team pulled together, as we do, and the firm has come out stronger and busier than ever, something not everyone can say.

Now, as restrictions are being lifted, we are starting to come back to the actual office.  While there were some who never stopped working in the office, honestly, it takes a little getting used to hearing sounds you don’t hear when you have a whole office environment to yourself. But they are refreshing and long-awaited sounds. And to welcome everyone back, each of our 4 offices held a social event of their choosing to give staff a chance to reconnect in a non-work environment.

Each office chose their own event including ziplining, picnics, and dinner. The McLean office, where I am located, also decided to have a picnic in a local park for the afternoon. The weather was beautiful and warm. We had a lakeside view, and there were plenty of activities to choose from including lawn games, miniature golf, hiking, and volleyball. Lunch was provided by the company, giving everyone a chance to catch up in a relaxed setting. And the desserts….they were aplenty. I admit, part of that was my fault because I had a good excuse to try new recipes that had been calling my name for months, not to mention, willing participants to test them out for me. How could I pass that opportunity up?

The day was a lot of fun and a great way to start the next phase of pandemic recovery. Now it’s time to get back to the office and get back to work!