Take it easy Jay, and feic the parts. Having had to say goodbye to one of my best friends daughters this year barely even 1 year old, I've a different outlook on life and work comes last. (Might be different for those who are self employed.) I missed her first birthday due to work declining my request for the day off, or at least an early or late shift to enable me to go. Basically any shift that would allow me to go. That birthday would inevitably be her first and last. Family and friends will always come first for me and in future I wont be asking, I'll be telling. They can sack me if they want.