[Lindsey]

So in an effort to stand up for myself and have a life, I have been deciding to just go home at 5 for the past two days. I just get up and leave. I don't ask "Is there more to get done tonight?" And when people see me with my jacket on, Layla packed up, and Scott with the car keys in his hand, they don't ask me to stay either. I know the other drafters have been spending late nights here, but I've been spending my time at home and I really think maybe it's time to put my family (Scott and Layla) and time to myself ahead of my job. I feel bad for them doing the extra work, but I also feel bad for Scott and Layla having to deal with me working late. Scott and Layla win.

Yesterday was pretty hectic during the work day, with the large project to get done for the company CEO. Near the end of the day I made a call to the drafter in the main office to figure out where we're at, and she seemed very stressed out. She said "Wayne wants me to do another drawing before tomorrow, but I'm sorry, it's not going to happen." And that just blew me away! That she has only been there for a few months but can still say, not just to her manager, but to the owner of the company "I am not finishing this for you because I'm going home at the end of the workday" was just amazing to me. Wayne, the CEO, is a really nice guy, and I know that he would be fine with that decision if she really didn't want to work late. On the other hand, our managers stress that if Wayne needs something done, don't even think twice about it and do whatever possible to get it done. Our office just really tries to suck up I think. But I don't think it matters. My job will not be in jeopardy. Wayne has known me for 4 years and knows I do a great job. So I'm not putting my life on hold anymore!

Thanks for letting me vent here. The stress got to be too much and I know now that I need to take time for myself. Last night, Scott and I ate a good meal, watched good tv, and sat in the hot tub for an hour. Now that is how every night should be!