There’s something about this time of year that puts me on edge, reminding me to remain vigilant and alert. After all, it was this time last year when I had that fateful night, getting trapped on a train headed for the trainyard. Still such a vivid memory.
Danger, or more accurately, the risk of entrapment lurks around every corner, striking at the most unsuspecting moments.
This year it was a revolving door…
I was at a job interview this time – sort of. I’ve qualified to be part of a group of “senior level professionals” reintegrating into the work force after a significant career break through one of the large banks here. A great opportunity for me!
This particular evening was a meet & greet with the other program participants and the senior HR officials at the bank.
The evening went well, I felt good about the non-Housfrau outfit I’d put together, I was confidently making a good first impression with the important people in the room. After a presentation and Swiss-style “Apero” (wine and cheese social) the evening came to a close. I gathered my coat and prepared to leave. The event was held at the bank headquarters in Zürich which had mostly shut down for the evening expect for this private reception.
Everything had gone so well. I felt good about how I had concluded the evening so I confidently entered the revolving door, entering in just behind some folks who had departed a moment earlier. They successfully exited the door, I was mid way around when it stopped.
And locked.
I pushed forward. Nothing.
I pushed backwards. Nothing.
I was trapped. Deja vu…
So, I proceeded to bang, frantically on the glass, hoping to catch the attention of someone still in the building who might be able to assist in setting me free.
“What is that noise? Oh look, that woman’s gone and gotten herself trapped inside the revolving door. What a dolt. Look how frantic she’s getting flapping at the glass like that. I think she’s getting a bit sweaty in there.”
Good first impression gone right down the drain.
Someone did eventually come along and press some magic button which activated the damn door again. I stalked out, head held high, and never looked back.
For the love.
It’s just proof that one can never get too comfortable here. There’s a potential trap lurking around every corner.
Thankfully this weekend provided me with an opportunity to feel as though I did, in fact, have my sh*t together. There’s nothing like the people-watching at a giant indoor play-place to make you feel good about your parenting skills, fashion sense and dietary choices.
Not to mention that the Swiss version of an indoor child-fun-factory is very similar to the Swiss hockey arena – equipped with booze. So very civilized.
These guys create the perfect soundtrack to Christmas shopping.
The week was otherwise quite successful. Helena’s tooth has been fixed and I didn’t even laugh like a psychopath at the dentist this time. See, sometimes I can act like a real, live adult.
Another week, another set of adventures. Nothing we can’t handle.
