Seattle

I’ve just spent a pleasant few days in Seattle and I’m on my way to California to see my dad. Getting out of town was great, seeing Mom went well and the weather cooperated.  I didn’t completely stop working, though by today (Friday), things really tapered off. I was checking email every day and writing back quite a few times. I think everyone realizes that I actually need a vacation, though, so despite the seeming urgency of this work, they will make do without me.  I know my last post was a horrible work rant, but I am feeling better. No blow ups with my supervisor since I last wrote. We’re both a little extra cautious around each other, which is probably for the best.  How this will play out over the long haul, I can’t say, but I am confident I can control my temper and I will be actively trying to find a solution to my problem—be that transferring to a different office and new supervisor (but keeping my current portfolio) or getting a new job (I have applied for two).  

I am approaching my trip to California with some trepidation.  I avoid going there and prefer to see my dad other times. I had (“had”) to go this time because my youngest Israeli niece is visiting and one of the way my dad persuaded my brother to send her was by promising that I would be there to help entertain her. I do like her and I think we will have a fine time, but it isn’t exactly the vacation I would have planned for myself.  It will also be good to see a lot of my CA cousins, who I haven’t seen in years. I like them a lot, they’re interesting people, but obviously we’re not close since we don’t make special purpose plans to see each other.  Even so, I am looking forward to that part.

I’m not sure how it happened, but I am sitting in first class.  I used my frequent flier miles to get this ticket and I don’t remember using a premium amount for this seat. I’d much rather have been in first class for the flight from DC to Seattle…but here I am, and I’m not complaining. It’s much more comfortable. Wider seat, more leg room, early boarding. That last is kind of weird, since it means more time on the plane and getting to see everyone board, including frail, tiny old people who should really get to see in these special seats. I guess we’re all lucky enough to be flying, so I should stop feeling guilty. I’m just going to sit back and enjoy the flight.  I can consider it a small recompense for the extreme stress spending a week with my dad and stepmother is sure to cause.  Actually, having my niece there will make all the difference for me too. 

Grateful for: family.