I have really abandoned my blog. I didn't even write about CARTO's big change in 2014 or the rebrand to CARTO in 20161. Whatever, there will be time to explain all that; I'll try to write from time to time in 2018.
Today I wanted to mention something different. One week ago I left CARTO, and I have to admit it was the toughest decision I've ever made. Part of my life is (and will be) this company, this group of people, and the dream we fulfilled together.
And as you may know, when you experience so many emotions and adventures over 9 years, you need to stop, rest, recharge your batteries, and find a new adventure where you can help. This is how I announced my departure to the team (but in tears):
Who loves video games? I do, and you probably do too. I guess you are wondering: why is he talking about video games now? Because CARTO (previously known as Vizzuality) is like a great old video game, an arcade video game, where I've inserted coins every day for almost 9 years.
And I can proudly say I've passed several levels (with better or worse results), with their monsters and rewards included.
Today, unfortunately, I can't find any more coins in my pocket, and I don't feel the same energy as before to kill those final monsters, to pass that impossible level, to win that precious reward.
But, wait, the countdown to insert a new coin has started, and I don't want anybody to give up. You are a very good player (have no doubt), you have the right weapons, you know the path to the end of the level, and you know how to kill that final monster.
Take your coin, insert it, and keep the game on. I'll be close by, watching as you complete the video game, and if I can help with the Konami code, I'll be there.
Thanks to all of you, really, thank you. There isn't (and there won't be) enough time to thank everybody I'd like to: those of you who are here and those who were here.
But a special thank you to @jorgesancha, who has moved heaven and earth to find me a new position over the last few months. And thanks to @saleiva and @jatorre, because you taught me how to play nice old video games, and now, in the future, I'll try to find a lost coin on the floor to start a new video game, maybe not quite as awesome, maybe Tetris.
1: I encourage you to follow Javi Santana's blog to learn more about the last years at CARTO.