My iRobot colleagues honored me with a farewell celebration this evening. Many kind words were spoken and I was humbled by the attention and compliments. Mostly, though, I was grateful for the opportunity to personally thank so many of the people who have contributed to the success for which I am given credit. The Home Business Unit GM spoke of my accomplishments and loyalty to the company and people I work with. The SVP of Operations made fun of the way I dress, the way I pack for business trips, my competitive nature, and my penchant for photography. He presented me with a single-use Kodak camera after determining that any other photo related gift would be too expensive. The CTO spoke of his respect for my work-life balance and presented me with an inspirational coffee table book entitled “Great Journeys” which has already caused me to update my bucket list. My team presented me with a signed and framed montage of four photos I had taken over the years which chronicles the evolution of the iRobot engineering management team during my tenure. Earlier in the day I spoke by phone with the CEO and was encouraged by his support for the new company I am (tentatively) forming. I was truly touched by the entire affair. I tried to thank everyone who attended but as I look back at the photos, I realize there were many that I did not have a chance to connect with. For that I am sorry. I will always look back on my iRobot years with great fondness but I am also looking forward to the next chapter in my career.

Photo credits to Doug Marsden, Rob Figler and Youssef Saleh.