Mixing with mixers

Friday was in the diary as a team day. I awaited it with trepidation, because, in spite of the joy of not working (not that I was doing any work), it meant being with all these people who chatted to each other in Hungarian, leaving me in a little world of my own. Isolating to say the least. In the first session I turned to one girl, and felt the waterworks starting. We shuffled off to the printer room, and I confessed my feelings. She said she'd speak to our manager for me.

I coped as best I could, back in the room, trying to keep my composure. My manager suggested we go for lunch together, a little place near the office. I told him how I was feeling, trying not to start crying again. He suggested things would get easier once I got to know a few people, and that if I could make the effort today it would really help. I jokingly suggested that if I refused I'd be automatically fired. He agreed, with a knowing smile.

In the afternoon we headed off to the National Bank, which was free to attend, complete with tour guide. The team were very excited, which I couldn't understand, since it sounded like a very dry event, nothing like go-carting, or hauling logs to make a bridge. I was proved right, as most of them quickly became bored. I found it interesting though, and enjoyed that the guide seemed to take something of a shine to me.

We left the Bank, and headed for a drink. Most of the team ganged together on a few tables, leaving the stragglers, including me to grab a couple of high stools. I got chatting to one girl, and we got on well. Everyone went their separate ways, intending to meet later at one of the managers' flats. The girl and I headed back to hers, and I ended up repotting one of her plants. Grubby fingernails filled with soil is a deeply comforting look for me.

Later, at the party, I felt a little uncomfortable, but was determined to make the effort. Helped on by alcohol, I got into the groove with anyone, and actually had quite a good time, though I'd certainly managed to drink too much. They were heading out to a club, so I popped off for a tactical, and escorted them there, before making my way home, wary that I had a flight the next morning.