Surviving the Company Party Solo 

I don't know why I was a little nervous about going to the company party by myself.

I knew other people weren't bringing dates.  And I could have brought a date if I really had wanted to.  I didn't feel as if I was being looked down on or pitied because I didn't bring someone with me.  And, finally, I've become pretty social in my old age - I can talk to people fairly easily, get along well with my co-workers, and wasn't afraid of feeling like a wallflower.  

Nevertheless, I had to take a few deep breaths before walking into the party alone.  

I don't quite know why - my experiences taking my ex to company gatherings weren't really great ones.  (I'd already resolved not to take a guest in the future to any company gatherings, actually.) And I remember feeling a bit out of place when I went along to his parties - I didn't really know anyone, wasn't much of a socializer then, and had to push myself past my discomfort in order to have a good time.

Of course, I had a great time.  Found plenty of people to talk to, mingled easily, and didn't have to worry about leaving my escort out of the loop or alone.  

Still - I was glad that I had a ready excuse to duck out with the second wave of departers.

See, I had a date waiting for me to finish with the work obligation already...!