So Graded: And I'm the One That Graded You!

I think I might be one of those people who is easily annoyed. I try to be patient. I try not to be jaded. For me as an instructor, one of the biggest annoyances is being asked when essays will be graded. I mean, I totally get that students want and need to know their grades. Trust me; I'm on it. I am grading my head off. Maybe that's why it gets on my nerves so much. Here I am, grading away and someone asks, "Have you graded our essays yet?" It feels like a slap in the face of your servant to me. It's like saying "chop-chop" to your waitress. It's like asking your lawn boy in 110 degree heat if it's hot enough for him. Or one of those annoying kids in the back seat saying, "Are we there yet?" over and over. I used to give my best prediction: "I usually try to give myself a week from the due date." or I'd say, "No, I'm working on it," but the more and more times I'm asked, the less and less politely I feel like answering. I know for that person it's the only time they've asked. But for me it's the millionth. It's probably my favorite when they ask on the very next day, "When will we know what we made on the essay?" I say, in the most polite voice I can muster, "When I get them graded." or "I'll be sure and let you know as soon as they're graded." but I feel like saying--"Shut it." The Austin Powers scene comes to mind when Dr. Evil simply does not allow the words to come out of his son's mouth: "Shh! Shh! Shh! Let me tell you a little story about a man named Shh!" Maybe I could get by with ignoring the question all together. I'll just stare through the person and continue as if I never heard it. I'll let you know how that goes over.