The Post Where I'm Not a Nice Person (Feel Free to Skip)

Do you ever just get irked by some people?  Like for no reason?

Exhibit A: I am working at the library and finally have the last 30 minutes to work on stuff when Doris (name has been changed to protect person's identity and so my ass is covered on the off-chance that someone from IES reads this blog) approaches the desk.

     "Hi Katy I have nothing to check out I'm just saying hi!"
     "Oh, Hi Doris.  How are you?"
     "Oh pretty good I'm just trying to get ready to go on my trip tomorrow and...................................................................................la la la la la................................................................................................................................and my mom keeps asking me about grad school and I'm like oh maybe I'll come back to Vienna or maybe not I don't know it's so far away and..................................................................uh huh!....................and.......................well I have to go wash my clothes and study and get groceries and pack.  Are you going anywhere for break?"
     "Nope.  Just hanging out in Vienna for the weekend."
     "Oh cool well have fun bye!"

Fragen zum text:
1. What did Doris really mean to gain by having this conversation?
2. What am I supposed to say in response? Because I can't say what I am thinking.
3. Can I type on my computer behind the desk and simultaneously look engaged in the conversation?

Antworten:
1. Doris just wanted to tell me about her awesome week and talk a little.  That is totally fine but not really the hello she intended to give.  I think we should be honest about our intentions.
2. I need only smile and listen, thereby avoiding having to be fake but still being there to listen, which was what Doris needed in the first place (see Answer 1).
3. Yes.  Quite convincingly.  This blog was 20% complete before the conversation ended.