a few years ago, my employer of years shut their doors and we all were laid off. i would probably have stayed at that place my entire career if it had not closed.
i am glad things have worked out in the end for you. sometimes bad things happen for a reason.
no, i worked at another place for a year or so, but it was terrible, so i left there and am now going to school for something better. so, it all has worked out well.