Normally, when I take the kids to work, they get into everything. That’s okay sometimes and it usually keeps them busy. They had some water, explored every office, and chatted with my coworkers. I am so glad they are all so tolerant. Near the end of our time there, Violet was out talking with our receptionist/intern and I was wrapping up one more thing while getting Hayden ready to go.
I went out to our lobby and noticed that Violet was not there. I asked our intern where she was and her response was a very normal, “oh, she went down the hall.” Well, my initial response was not panic, just more of a, ‘hm.’
I said goodbye and headed down the hall to gather Violet.
She wasn’t down the hall. I checked the bathrooms – no Violet. All of the conference rooms – no Violet. I went down to United Way (we share a building), still no Violet. Now, I started to freak out. I just happened to glance out the window as I was heading back to my office to check there one more time and saw her: sitting outside playing in the rocks by my building. Outside. By herself. Alone.
Now, my work is not in the best neighborhood, and our parking lot is where all of the unsavory people cut through. I was livid.
I made sure to let Violet know that she is to never leave without at least saying where she’s going. Needless to say, Violet AND Hayden cried all the way home.
I don’t know that I’ve ever been so scared.
Had an incident like that with Karl once. Know the feeling – not a good one! Grammy