Oh, no! I'm sorry I brought back bed memories, though it sounds like your current work situation is a lot better. :-) Unfortunately, the open concept isn't great when you're trying to do solitary work -- not if you're beside the sales department or a manager who holds mini meetings with her staff outside of her cubicle. Still, I haven't had to sit beside anyone playing a radio. I don't remember reading any rules about them, but I'm guessing they aren't allowed or, at least, encouraged.

Anyway, I'm glad you're in a better space now and have some power as one of the store owners. :-) It's also kind of you not to think of this post as bitching. I think I assumed at the time that someone would accuse me of whining, so I'm relieved that my entry is helping people to know that they're not alone and/or be grateful for the changes they've experienced. :-)