I went out to dinner, then browsed a bookstore while listening to the traditional music session they have there once a month. Read the first few chapters of a book and decided not to buy it. Now, watching The Flash.

You say that like it could be a bad thing.

Like I said, I vote for option b (relocating)

I took a walk around a lake with my coworker, wherein we discussed all the many many annoyances of our job. For the umptymillionth time. :) Then we drove to the mall and I spent money at Ulta, and we got some Chipotle. Now I have hot chocolate with Rumchata in it, because it is chill here.

At some point this evening I need to pack.

Kat, that sounds awesome and exciting! When would you start, now, at the semester, or next year?

Congratulations, Kat!

You say that like it could be a bad thing.

I know! We could see Shrift more regularly! That would be awesome!

And thanks, folks. I feel way less conflicted and stressed than I was on Monday.

Frankly, much of this has to do with, well, my expectations that I'm supposed to be ambitious and enjoy a fast-paced, stressful life, like all of my siblings (who are a president of a vaccine company, a restauranteur, an HR director for a major city, and a director of QA for a big software firm). And I'm just noodling alone with my middling-level career. Hell, I can't even say I'm a program manager anymore (which kind of sucks).

OTOH, I really like having time to hang around the house and bake, and watch too much television, and understand internet memes, which none of my siblings do (except the software guy maybe). And it gives me time to support Dad, which is really more important than being ambitious or important or making money for shareholders.

OTOH, I really like having time to hang around the house and bake, and watch too much television, and understand internet memes, which none of my siblings do (except the software guy maybe). And it gives me time to support Dad, which is really more important than being ambitious or important or making money for shareholders.

I think the way we spend our days means a lot more than we realize. And it's worth it to enjoy most of them, when you can.

Congratulations, Kat!

And congratulations to you too, Suela, for making a decision you're comfortable with.

Sounds like a productive day, Suzi.

Good luck, Calli!

And way to go, Sarameg!

I think the way we spend our days means a lot more than we realize. And it's worth it to enjoy most of them, when you can.

I've been with my company for a zillion years and at times I think about looking for a different job where I could make more money. But then I think of all the institutional history I have with my current job, the reputation I have across the company, the flexibility both in where I work and the hours I work, and that I'm in a position with good growth potential. I know I'm lucky and why give that up. Yes, more money/prestige would be nice, but I'm not willing to give up what I have.

Exactly, Suzi. I've been where I am for 6+ years, and apparently I've learned more than I knew. Which is helpful.

OK, should I go make brownies? Or just watch last night's SHIELD? Or possibly both?

I'm excited for you, Kat! Congrats!

I've come around to the fact I no longer have ambitions to set the world afire or be someone who makes a Big Difference. I want to be ...pleasant. I want to cultivate a space where it's kindness. I've got my hood and a job I like and that engages me ( though my employer is doing its best to thwart that) and I can work in my house and take care of the people I love. My orbit is small, I want to exert my efforts there. I want pleasant, I want to share that. I hope it echoes.

And for the unveiling of nomoretape: [link]