AHA!

Finally figured out why I've been so angry lately. (Okay, *lately* is a term I'm using loosely.)

I am under appreciated at work.

Of course, everyone is, but sometimes, doesn't it just bug the snot out of you? And you get mad because you're working hard (and working well) and nobody, but nobody, even notices? Or worse, they just figure you're supposed to be THIS freaking good at it, and get grumpy when you call attention to the fact that you are not only gloriously fabulous at your job, but that there's a truckload of slackers and jerks you're supporting. And the slackers are complaining about you--you're crushing the grading curve.

Taking off your shoe and bitch slapping them (whoever your *them* may be) isn't an option.

So you get a great big walloping case of PMS that lasts for 6 months. And it's not attractive, but there you are.

Then, by some miracle, somebody notices, and actually writes it down. Maybe they're compelled to do it because it's also time for your yearly review. But that doesn't matter. They've got good things to say, and nickels to back it up.

As it turns out, Mr. *nobody exceeds standards* Manager actually marks you as exceeding standards--without you having to mention it. He pointedly tells you that it's obvious to EVERY.ONE. EVER. that you exceed standards in this one area, and he HAD to mark it this year.

Then, he proceeds to tell you how many nickels you'll be getting this year. And, YEAH, BABY! It's the highest amount of nickels the company allows--but which, according to history, ain't nobody getting. For any reason.

And this year, you got 'em.

So, in spite of being on a raging PMS rant for 6 months, somebody decided to recognize the job you do--and to acknowledge that you are, in fact, a righteously excellent person to have on the job.

Yea, ME!