Thanks! I hope so too (re: it coming through quickly). I could have sworn this woman was going to start maternity leave in March, which means something needs to happen soon. I don't think I can survive another year in my team (i.e. waiting for her to get back).

And, wow! Someone tried communicating with you by leaving signs in your work area? That sounds so immature and like they've got their own nutty issues! Don't you just wish you could send out a mass email saying something like, "Thankfully the webcams were up and running, as soon as I finish reviewing the footage, I'll know who to thank for the signs. I will talk to you soon <evil laugh>" People are so goofy. Was what they needed to tell you so awful that they couldn't even bear to send an email?!

Bummer about your boss... does it seem to be becoming a pattern, or more of a one-off thing? I assume if he *actually* had the experience to know what the problem was, he wouldn't need to bring you on (!) so it seems odd that he suddenly wants to be the "expert" here!

And, I don't think you're the problem. Sure, some people can just let this stuff roll off their back... but that doesn't mean everyone should. That stuff sounds super irritating, even if you consciously decide to not let it get to you, it's still honestly classified as irritating (and stupid) stuff people do in the workplace!