Elaine had to work last summer and barely got time to do a few things she had planned.
Two people in her company had quit, and there was so much backlog which forced her to put in extra hours.
Her boss called her for a meeting one morning and commended Elaine for the good work. However, he apologized for some issues in the office that had caused the resignation of the other members of staff. Basically, they felt unheard and frustrated at work. Elaine was happy with the development and also inquired about her annual leave. Her boss requested she go on leave that fall which she did. Elaine knew she’d still have so much fun in fall, and it wouldn’t be too hot. Summer had been brutal, and they always had the AC unit working hard in the office to remain cool and comfortable. However, fall was better, and she could walk the streets in different parts of Illinois during her tour. She started in Libertyville since she felt there were so many places she hadn’t been to. Her best friend tagged along for a day or two but had to work, so it was mostly a solo trip throughout the state. Illinois before the snow was magical, with all the changes taking place in nature. It actually felt calmer as things died down and life prepared for a few months of winter before spring. By the time Elaine returned to work, she was rejuvenated and ready to take on another project. She had quite a few things to do, and her boss was proving to be a changed man.