Originally Posted by ImaPlum:
“ I had a most depressing meeting with a recruitment agency, I came away depressed but by the time I got home I was annoyed so I'm contemplating sending them an email with my views. The lady was nice but she was very critical of my decision to put family before career - I was quite apologetic, then I thought on the way home, bollocks to that, I did the right thing by my parents and by my daughter and no-one should judge me for that. So meh and pffffffft and hurrumph!! ”
You were right to be annoyed Plum - why do so many companies think employees need to be married to a job in order to operate effectively. I would have thought your determination and ability to juggle home responsibilities with work an advantage for any employer - such a pity they are so short sighted - and yes you will get a job and it will be in a place where your skills and commitment to home and work are fully understood and appreciated.
Now for the kitchen: I was promised the gas fitter would arrive between mid morning and lunchtime - so I thought OK - I'll be generous with the time boundaries and assume a window between 10.30 a.m. and 2 p.m. 2 o'clock came and went so back on the phone.
Brrrr brrrr:
Kitchen supplier - "Hello"
Me - it's after 2 and I'm still waiting for the gas fitter
Kitchen supplier - I'm glad you got in touch - I thought it was done and dusted.
Me - Well it isn't.
Kitchen supplier - I'll find out what's going on and phone you in a couple of minutes.
30 minutes later -
brrrrr brrrrr he was called out on an emergency; gas leak or something. OK gas leaks take priority over activating a gas hob - but whatever happened to a phone call by way of explanation?
Gas fitter arrives and asks where are the spares, brackets etc. he needs to fit and activate the hob. I'm


Take him to the outhouse where everything is being stored - nope he can't find what he needs. He phones the kitchen supplier, explains the problem and hopefully I'll see him tomorrow - oops later today.
I was told that from start to finish the kitchen would take 12 working days. We have reached that target and I reckon we're at the half way stage. I've had enough - I get onto the supplier and tell him he needs to get around to the house pronto.
His response:"If that's what you want."
Mine "It is."
Him "Is between 10 and 2 ok?"
Me "No, be more specific."
Him "OK 10 a.m."
Me "See you then."
Thank the Lord I can work from home - but sparks might fly later today.