Work Stuff

There were a few things that happened today at work.  Most of my happy things revolve around that today:

• It has been a little over three and a half years that I have had my current employer.  When I started, vaccines for the Covid virus were new and there were still some mask and distance restrictions.  I wasn't sure if I would stay at a job that was so physical.  I walked outside to my car for every break and didn't spend much time talking with people.  Wearing masks and having to keep six feet away from everyone helped my introversion.  When more people were vaccinated and the restrictions were lifted, I kept taking my breaks in my car.  It wasn't until I decided to try and become a Learning Ambassador that that changed.  I didn't get the position then.  It was suggested politely that I needed to get out of my shell.  So I decided to take my breaks in the breakroom.  The table that caught my eye had some older gentlemen that had all at some point introduced themselves to me and made me feel welcome at the workplace.  I asked to sit with them.  Last year, one of them retired after being out on leave for medical reasons.  I didn't get to say goodbye.  Today, another one retired.  This particular gentleman had helped me hone my skills when I was learning to stow.  I got to say goodbye and give him a hug before he left.  I'm very happy for him, but sad to see him go.  Breaks will be different going forward.
• There has been something I've been trying to get the nerve to do, and I did it.  I asked HR about how a leave of absence would work and told them that I am hoping to hike the Appalachian Trail.  They weren't able to answer all my questions, but I'm sure about being able to get three months.  After that, we'll see.  It may need special approval.
• The other person I told about hiking  today is the Learning Coordinator.  We are going to continue with the things I need to do to keep my current position.  At least to the extent that he has control over it.  That also helped to put my mind at ease.  Am I prepared to quit my job and try to reapply or find something else after? Yes.  Do I want to?  No.  I've gone through different levels of liking and hating my job over the last three and a half years, right now I'm really liking it.  
• At home, I took a nap.  When I got up and went to the house, it had snowed!  Just a little, but I wasn’t expecting it.  

Snow!  Not enough to shovel.  😄

• Sunset!

☮

Currently listening to: A Walk in the Woods, by Bill Bryson. 

Thank you for being here and being part of my daily happy things. Stay safe!