My company is, by doctrine, a Remote Work Shop (except for some who work in IT, Fulfillment, and a few must-touch roles). But it's really taken me some time to embrace it.

I used to love coming to the office, bumping into people at the Microwave, overhearing two guys chatting in the hall - "Idaho project has the same exact issue. What did you do?" - going to lunch and happy hours together. I think it made the team feel different.

As an Old White Guy Who Likes Geometry, I might be part of the reference group in this article. But my upbringing also stressed the value of what are often called Soft Skills and, while that had served me well in past employment, but it's not as valuable in this day under the WFH paradigm.

I've only finally adjusted to WFH more often by highlighting that I can play with Dante the Husky Dawg anytime he shows up with a ball in his mouth, or start the Tacos on Tuesday earlier - pulling chicken breasts, peeling shrimp takes some time.

It's getting better - and I'm actually in the office today - but I miss The Olden Days of Meatspace Relationships.