Ugh

In my nearly 9 years here, there have been a few unpleasant periods: the time our whole department merged with another one and then moved buildings, the time we eliminated 7 (of 35) administrative positions, the two times co-workers have gotten sick and passed away in a short period of time. I have to say that right now is one of the more unpleasant. I recently threatened a co-worker that I would “check out completely” if he didn’t re-route his conversation. As anxiety levels rise, so do speculations about what will happen, opinions about said speculations, and the propensity for coping mechanisms (or subconscious mannerisms and quirky tendencies). At this rate, I really need them to not come to an agreement, just so that I get Friday off. It’s been a stressful week. Have I mentioned my boss is out of town this week, and in her stead, I am acting “office manager” (very loosely but semi-officially).

I try not to talk about work too much here, mainly because I enjoy being employed and would rather not lose my job because of something stupid I said on the internet. That said, it’s a bit overwhelming this week (there are, in fact, other things going on outside of the pending shutdown), and seems to be occupying a larger portion of my thoughts, energies, and emotions than it usually does.

So… yeah.

Our house guests are here, their baby is cute, and I haven’t taken any pictures.

Our carpets were cleaned yesterday, and we can move the furniture back tonight. Yesterday set up the entertainment system in the new cabinet. We also went out to dinner with our house guests. I cut out Simplicity 2263 View A (top), even though the skirt I made from it turned out… less than wearable. ( and I did come up with a plan to fix it, but I haven’t put the energy into ripping out all those seams just yet.) I used a remnant that I picked up from Hancock Fabrics the other day that I hadn’t even photographed/cataloged yet (I think it’s rayon, and it’s an orange and brown print). I also prepped the pattern pieces for New Look 6457. and I decided on View D, after reviewing the options.

The far right version, though I haven't decided what color to use as an accent. I'm leaning towards grey.

If it fails miserably and I do, in fact, look like a farmer (as is convinced that is the only thing this fabric could ever look like), then it will at least serve as a muslin and I’ll get a good fit out of the pattern before using fabric that cost more than $3/yard. I have to say, the pattern pieces themselves are less than inspiring.

I think we should get the furniture set up in the family room tonight in enough time to take pictures while the sun still shines. They won’t be terribly inspiring, but I think you’ll get an idea of what the room will look like when we’re finally done. If things aren’t as hectic as I think they will be tomorrow, I’ll make the time to post them here.

And now, I must get back to the managed chaos of work. Sigh.