Hi Amanda, how are you? I've missed working with you and the whole gang since my transfer last week.
We've missed you too. The office just isn't the same without you. How is your new job?
It's great. I really get to focus on what I like to do and everyone has been very nice and welcoming. However, I'm having a small problem with my new colleagues.
What happened?
Well, three people are celebrating their birthdays this month and the policy here is for everyone to contribute ten dollars to a card and cake for each person.
Wow, so you'll be out thirty dollars on your first week at work!
I know. It is a lot of money and I haven't gotten to know any of the people celebrating their birthdays well enough yet. At our old department, it was only three dollars for each birthday and there were only ten of us.
Well, every department is different. You wouldn't want your new co-workers to think you're a Grinch, right?
What is that?
A Grinch is a person who spoils the mood at a happy occasion by being selfish or unenthusiastic. You know - a party proper.