tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-318634292024-03-12T22:00:15.101-07:00NursapaloozaNursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.comBlogger228125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-80315802665175562502013-04-19T08:25:00.002-07:002013-04-19T08:25:38.363-07:00Desert, not DESSERT....<br />
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You will be on a desert island for a year, and you can choose 4 foods that will always be in supply, and all the fresh water you need. What four do you choose?</div>
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<li class="chat_line" style="border: 1px solid rgb(226, 228, 231); list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; outline: none 0px; padding: 9px 14px;">1. Peanut butter</li>
<li class="chat_line" style="background-color: #fdfdfd; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; outline: none 0px; padding: 9px 14px;">2. Crusty bread.</li>
<li class="chat_line" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; outline: none 0px; padding: 9px 14px;">3. Roast chicken</li>
<li class="chat_line" style="background-color: #fdfdfd; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; outline: none 0px; padding: 9px 14px;">4. Mangoes</li>
<li class="chat_line" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(226, 228, 231); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; outline: none 0px; padding: 9px 14px;">And what would you choose?</li>
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Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-75838172275194210652013-02-18T21:45:00.000-08:002013-04-18T22:21:42.559-07:00you tell me...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px;">I liked this idea from <a href="http://justsweetlove.com/2013/02/four-things/" target="_blank">Jenny</a>. So...here's 4 things about me, now PLEASE tell me 4 things about you!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px;">1. I once began to write a Romance, I wrote about 5 chapters, and got stuck during the make out scene!</span><br style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px;">2. I taught 8th grade History, and 7th grade science many moons ago.</span><br style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px;">3. I can make dogs bark and children cry when I laugh.</span><br style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px;">4. My hubs can make dogs bark and children cry when he sneezes.</span><br style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px;">(that just cracks me up)</span></span>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-39306829657177011752012-09-29T22:08:00.001-07:002012-09-29T22:08:12.484-07:00Turning an old book into a Nook holder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sNubRsAjNcs/UGc1uY-8xII/AAAAAAAADOg/pZqcr3BZSfk/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sNubRsAjNcs/UGc1uY-8xII/AAAAAAAADOg/pZqcr3BZSfk/s320/DSC_0018.JPG" width="320" /></a>1. Get yourself an old book that will fit your Nook.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbA3LAMbVQ4/UGc1yW6GNEI/AAAAAAAADOo/2-yzhD_zNnA/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbA3LAMbVQ4/UGc1yW6GNEI/AAAAAAAADOo/2-yzhD_zNnA/s320/DSC_0020.JPG" width="320" /></a>2. Use an exacto knife to remove all pages. I have to say, I felt like crying, defacing an old book like that!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiHDNWZ_eP8/UGc12RkFlSI/AAAAAAAADOw/WTbTLB8WbxY/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiHDNWZ_eP8/UGc12RkFlSI/AAAAAAAADOw/WTbTLB8WbxY/s320/DSC_0030.JPG" width="320" /></a>3. Cut out craft foam to fit the front and back inside covers.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0wAhsUFXuQ/UGc6YiNQzLI/AAAAAAAADQQ/p-mgpMcylIU/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0wAhsUFXuQ/UGc6YiNQzLI/AAAAAAAADQQ/p-mgpMcylIU/s320/DSC_0047.JPG" width="320" /></a>4. Supplies: I needed some of that Gorilla Glue but Joanne's didn't have it so I bought some glue 6000 that causes cancer, which toxic odor never went away, so I threw that part away and used what I had here, plus a glue gun not pictured. So, I used tacky glue, Lineco ph neutral glue, black elastic and a glue gun. Oh, and I used some scrapbook paper to make it a little pertier inside.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LQ5TLTEdmHc/UGc16GegRJI/AAAAAAAADO4/wb3EuGa8r70/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LQ5TLTEdmHc/UGc16GegRJI/AAAAAAAADO4/wb3EuGa8r70/s320/DSC_0032.JPG" width="320" /></a>5. Remember how ugly the crack was after removing the book? So I used the lineco to glue down some pretty paper. This stuff dries SUPER fast, it was great. About 2 minutes.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IvZKIFv7THs/UGc2KtcRWNI/AAAAAAAADPY/vy0TH3OGAh8/s1600/DSC_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IvZKIFv7THs/UGc2KtcRWNI/AAAAAAAADPY/vy0TH3OGAh8/s320/DSC_0036.JPG" width="320" /></a> I put a heavy curved book in the center because the middle was curved, to help it dry in the right place. This photo is actually when I put books on for other gluing. But you get the idea.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5TgPoib7D1U/UGc19r-Rp0I/AAAAAAAADPA/v7QEUHLHK_A/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5TgPoib7D1U/UGc19r-Rp0I/AAAAAAAADPA/v7QEUHLHK_A/s320/DSC_0033.JPG" width="320" /></a>6. On the right craft foam, glue on a piece of wood that will keep the nook in place. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTo4-XfSX0k/UGc2DC8QdMI/AAAAAAAADPI/hpM--v1Lo5Y/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTo4-XfSX0k/UGc2DC8QdMI/AAAAAAAADPI/hpM--v1Lo5Y/s320/DSC_0034.JPG" width="320" /></a>7. Tacky glue some cardboard to the back of that same piece, place heavy book to make flat, I went out to dinner, and when I got back it was dry. I then hot glued the black elastic pieces on the top to hold Nook in place. I then tacky glued and hot glued that piece into the book.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdNhFIQ_TkI/UGc2G0BMbII/AAAAAAAADPQ/fDIlJE4Z9ao/s1600/DSC_0035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdNhFIQ_TkI/UGc2G0BMbII/AAAAAAAADPQ/fDIlJE4Z9ao/s320/DSC_0035.JPG" width="320" /></a>8. I then glued the left piece of craft foam onto book with tacky glue, and then covered the foam (on the left piece only) with the perty paper using the Lineco. Again, placed heavy books on it to help everything dry flat beautifully. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9txpFRJ5c-I/UGc2OnIXVjI/AAAAAAAADPg/Wxe2ekPVUbs/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9txpFRJ5c-I/UGc2OnIXVjI/AAAAAAAADPg/Wxe2ekPVUbs/s320/DSC_0037.JPG" width="320" /></a>9. Finished. This is what the inside looks like complete!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rW258ZbJa5Q/UGc2Wla6ZKI/AAAAAAAADP0/HWIPZ7MzeW0/s1600/DSC_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rW258ZbJa5Q/UGc2Wla6ZKI/AAAAAAAADP0/HWIPZ7MzeW0/s320/DSC_0041.JPG" width="320" /></a>with the Nook in place.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEZUx3zRyTQ/UGc2bqTltII/AAAAAAAADP8/CUB-eVuRKgM/s1600/DSC_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEZUx3zRyTQ/UGc2bqTltII/AAAAAAAADP8/CUB-eVuRKgM/s320/DSC_0045.JPG" width="320" /></a>How it looks on the outside. </div>
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So that's it. I made it in one day. The only thing I may add later is a few side sticks (next to the Nook), and some antique buttons with an elastic to keep it closed. Isn't it so cute??!! I think so too! Please leave your comments with any ideas. Thanks.</div>
<br />Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-53063317147051388652012-03-24T09:50:00.009-07:002012-03-28T07:36:31.346-07:00Spring has sprung...<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PAcl4V-ZVm8/T239nzHFS1I/AAAAAAAADNQ/4_H_jUdSJ6w/s1600/spring-mountain-wallpapers-1024x768.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PAcl4V-ZVm8/T239nzHFS1I/AAAAAAAADNQ/4_H_jUdSJ6w/s320/spring-mountain-wallpapers-1024x768.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723509561634409298" /></a><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Though the weather has been totally schizoid, it is now officially Spring. I personally LOVE the rain and cloudy days with it's coolness, </span></span><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">but my hubs whines about it often. What I love most about this season is the longer hours of sunlight. By the time I get home from work each day, I still get a few hours of light, yay! (and ummm....no, this is not a view from my kitchen window, just a view I'd love to have from my kitchen window)</span></span><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Let's see, it's been quite a while, so I guess I should back up a </span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span style="font-size: 100%;">bit</span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span style="font-size: 100%;"> and fill in the blanks of what's been going on in my little corner of the world. The dtr is now 20, and enjoying college. Well she enjoys the social aspect, and ceramics anyway. She has taken to the wheel, which she absolutely loves. She is also heading off to Haiti again this summer to work in the orphanage. She was there last summer, but for only 9 days, which really wasn't long enough for her. This summer she'll go for </span>approx<span style="font-size: 100%;">. 6 wks. Yes, that is 5 wks to</span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span style="font-size: 100%;">o long in</span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; "> my book, but I'm the m</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">om, what do you expect? I'm totally proud of her, she has such a heart fo</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">r God, and for His kids. She is also working her dream job now being a Barista!</span></div><div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "> The boy is busy being 17 now. He is in an advanced AP Art class that has really challenged him outside of his particular interest. Here is one of my faves, a self portrait: </div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-58AeD5YLULU/T24BOlOoHyI/AAAAAAAADNc/l-gczjJNhHU/s320/Bryce%2Bself%2Bportrait.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723513526457736994" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 181px; " /> He has a great sen<span style="font-size: 100%; ">s</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">e of</span><span style="font-size: 100%; "> humor, and this catches that. He's a junior this year, and it's been tough, but I know he'll make it through. He's got some great friends that he gets together with to play some xbox shooting bad guy kind of game. You can see how in tune I am. He will be getting his pig and sheep within the next 2 wks, so we are looking forward to that, it is great fun.</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "> The hubs is still riding competitively and doing great. Month by month he seems to be climbing up towards the front. I am very proud of him.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; ">Me; lets see. I've been working as a hospice nurse for near</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">ing 1 1/2 yrs now. I would definitely say that the honeymoon is over. It is definitely harder then it was at first. I still love what I do, and wouldn't change for the world but there are days when I come home sit in a chair, and not move for 6 hrs. It is really more of an emotional exhaust than physical. I am really trying to learn how to build better boundaries, so I don't empty myself </span><i style="font-size: 100%; ">quite</i><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span style="font-size: 100%;"> so much. It is an amazing job though, and I feel so </span>privileged<span style="font-size: 100%;"> to be able to share Christ with those w</span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span style="font-size: 100%;">ho ask to hear. A wk ago, I had such an honor. Before he died, he finally had peace show in his face and heart. He actually looked up and thanked me. This doesn't happen often from the</span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; "> pt's themselves.</span><span style="font-size: 100%; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ouI5pJlRpU/T24NtBKyigI/AAAAAAAADNo/CX6_lLAsnXo/s320/weight-loss-food.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723527243493444098" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 215px; " /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; "> I've started dieting too (Jenny Craig), since I put on</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; "> 10 extra lbs in my first year working. I had blood work done previous to diet, and was told I was pre-</span><span>diabetic</span><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span>, my cholesterol and fats were way too high. Once I got over my depression with that I started Jenny. It is going well, slow but steady. I've also started to do more exercise at home since I just wasn'</span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span>t getting myself to the gym like I should. I'm doing DanceCentral 2 for cardio on the Fitness, and want to start doing some of the BEGINNER yoga for strength trai</span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">ning and stress reduction. I've lost 14 lbs so far, but the best part is that my clothes are loose, whooohooo! My new love is paper cutting, but I'm a total newbie to it. It is sooo fun. Here are my 2 tries so far.</span><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jHVaU27zWX4/T3MgrGB3veI/AAAAAAAADOM/Q20LEGEJjNE/s320/IMG_1003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724955476042956258" style="font-size: 100%; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRarEv8LVUs/T3Mg1iKZ64I/AAAAAAAADOY/_wzH7lk95Eo/s1600/IMG_1002.JPG" style="font-size: 100%; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRarEv8LVUs/T3Mg1iKZ64I/AAAAAAAADOY/_wzH7lk95Eo/s320/IMG_1002.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724955655393635202" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><span style="font-size: 100%; "> I want to star</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">t a ne</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">w one toda</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">y for a friend of mine who moved. I'm going to sketch out some ideas today. I want to do tons of detail, but I need to remind myself that I am not that good! I have GOT to keep it simple. I've also become quite addicted to Pinterest, here's </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/dublin37/" style="font-size: 100%; "><span><b>my page</b></span></a><span style="font-size: 100%; "> if you wish to visit.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>I'd say I've babbled on long enough. Please do forgive my ramblings, but it's been a long time since I was last on. God's many blessings to you.<br /></span><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><br /></div></div></div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-45747614006758956162011-06-15T20:16:00.000-07:002011-06-15T21:40:23.913-07:00Eight Months In...Well I have been with Hospice for 8 months now, and still learning every day. I think I will be for the next 10 or so years. I feel more comfortable with the routine, and the paper work is finally becoming second nature. I've gained the obligatory 10 lbs.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_rkFgzsVdk/TfmEq3TD8lI/AAAAAAAADM4/60lkGOtNu-U/s1600/02_scale.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 159px; HEIGHT: 128px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618667882054677074" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_rkFgzsVdk/TfmEq3TD8lI/AAAAAAAADM4/60lkGOtNu-U/s320/02_scale.jpg" /></a> No, I'm not happy about that, dang it. Every nurse kept telling me during training how they had put on the weight, but I thought it was only the office gals. Well no, it's pretty much the emotional stress. You know, I always think I'm doing fine with the emotional aspect of this job, but after some months, I see how it effects me. I really need to hold myself back a bit from my pt's. I give too much of myself, and then find myself pretty darned empty when I get home. I always knew that the whole "boundaries" thing </div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MyEfUhwsb3s/TfmGjxLbohI/AAAAAAAADNA/W2RynIDfcMw/s1600/boundary_full.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 181px; HEIGHT: 151px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618669959176233490" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MyEfUhwsb3s/TfmGjxLbohI/AAAAAAAADNA/W2RynIDfcMw/s320/boundary_full.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>would be my personal challenge, and it is!</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>On the home front, we are doing well. The dtr just finished her first year in college, and a short mission trip to Haiti. She has had a very growing year. She continued to help the homeless in Long Beach, and lead the Jr. High girls of her core group. So...as you can see, she hasn't had much time for a job. She's gotten by with babysitting jobs, and house cleaning once a wk for me. My dear boy is finishing 10th grade. He's had his struggles, but he is really working hard to try to fix some low grades. For fun, he is riding his road and street bike, selling tomatoes (he made over $100!!), <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RioAjbRhZ18/TfmH5D8semI/AAAAAAAADNI/pJ1r8vGfMEI/s1600/untitled.bmp"><img style="WIDTH: 220px; HEIGHT: 140px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618671424503577186" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RioAjbRhZ18/TfmH5D8semI/AAAAAAAADNI/pJ1r8vGfMEI/s320/untitled.bmp" /></a> making water rockets and working on the farm. The hubby is riding his bike, doing well on his races and rides. </div><br /><div><br />For fun, I've started riding my new bike</div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WDz_DkXGXXI/TfmD1BJynsI/AAAAAAAADMw/0hUY8Xjd_AY/s1600/Dash_1_compact_blk_gold_72dpiWIDE.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 213px; HEIGHT: 119px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618666956987211458" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WDz_DkXGXXI/TfmD1BJynsI/AAAAAAAADMw/0hUY8Xjd_AY/s320/Dash_1_compact_blk_gold_72dpiWIDE.jpg" /></a> that is a much faster one than my old Huffy. It's actually fun because I go zooooom, zoooom, zooooom. I scrap with my friends usually once a month all day instead of each wk since our scrap store closed.<br /><br /><br />Well I guess that's about it for now. I'm sorry for not being on more, though I'm sure no one has reeeeally missed me. Have a great week, y'all!</div></div></div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-67014071752780897622011-02-06T19:17:00.000-08:002011-05-26T08:15:37.000-07:00Love, LOve, LOVE...<p align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU934ZFcO5I/AAAAAAAADMk/HAyzPGqqLhk/s1600/victorian-valentines-card-cerub-arrow-doves-heart-flowers.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570803074770680722" style="WIDTH: 241px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 178px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU934ZFcO5I/AAAAAAAADMk/HAyzPGqqLhk/s320/victorian-valentines-card-cerub-arrow-doves-heart-flowers.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU933xWAt7I/AAAAAAAADMU/fxQwmP00Nz4/s1600/girl_24.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570803064102762418" style="WIDTH: 98px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 137px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU933xWAt7I/AAAAAAAADMU/fxQwmP00Nz4/s320/girl_24.gif" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU934IxQoiI/AAAAAAAADMc/jlMXMLixqzo/s1600/Valentines-Day-Wallpaper-08.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570803070391067170" style="WIDTH: 119px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 139px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU934IxQoiI/AAAAAAAADMc/jlMXMLixqzo/s320/Valentines-Day-Wallpaper-08.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It seems only right...you know, being the love month and all, to speak of love. I absolutely love my job. It seems everyday I am working, I am just in awe, that I love just about everything about it. Since I've started having all my own pt's, I've had approximately 6 of my pt's pass. It has been such a privilege to walk with families through this hard time of their lives. One of the pt's died as the wife and myself were taking care of him. That was quite strange, and yet somehow also amazing. God is so good. The families that know Him, have His hope and His comfort, and even a small taste of His joy to come. I am still trying to figure out how to share Him and His hope while being respectful of those with other beliefs. Sometimes it's tricky.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The kids are doing pretty good. The daughter is still really liking Jr college, and at least this semester got some general ed classes. She continues to help with Jr high ministries, and homeless people in long beach. She is still really trying to find out what to major in, what to do as a job. She loves the idea of working with non-profit organizations that help third world countries, but she also loves art...so, yeah, she's confused and searching.<br /><br /><br />The boy passed his classes this last semester, yay! He is plugging in to the high school ministries. He has some great guy friends that get together to watch movies, play X-box, dance somethin, and hang out.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU933T6flBI/AAAAAAAADME/SDa58ahyGrU/s1600/Cycling.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570803056202716178" style="WIDTH: 118px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 109px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU933T6flBI/AAAAAAAADME/SDa58ahyGrU/s320/Cycling.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The hubby has been cycling as usual, and doing great at it. He's had some changes at work that have been EXTREMELY challenging. He's literally counting down to each weekend, summer, and retirement. Ummm, yeah, retirement is YEeeeears away, but he knows the count, believe me.<br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU933sLXRhI/AAAAAAAADMM/jIi3a3hh4IY/s1600/5381054.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570803062715926034" style="WIDTH: 162px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 105px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TU933sLXRhI/AAAAAAAADMM/jIi3a3hh4IY/s320/5381054.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p align="left">We took a long wknd up in Mammoth. The kids and dad went skiing, while I relaxed at the cabin. And of course, we all frolicked in the snow.</p>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-47568167330887076352011-01-01T20:01:00.000-08:002011-01-01T20:25:39.776-08:00January 1st, 2011, Welcome!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TR_9HoNu7xI/AAAAAAAADLY/YXf2caxJV3s/s1600/Hospice%252520Image.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 211px; HEIGHT: 178px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557438772694413074" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TR_9HoNu7xI/AAAAAAAADLY/YXf2caxJV3s/s320/Hospice%252520Image.jpg" /></a><br />I haven't been on for so long, mostly because I am trying to get the hang of my new job as a hospice nurse. I am still absolutely LOVING my job. There is not a day that goes by, that I can believe how happy I am. It just seems to be such a perfect fit for me. I was thinking last night, that one of my prayer requests concerning a nursing job was answered. Before my hospital job, I prayed that #1 that God would use me for His glory, and #2, that I would have joy in my job, and lastly #3, that my coworkers would be my friends, and an extension of my family. I am happy to say, all 3 are true in this new nursing job. On Thursday, while visiting a patient, the wife and myself were cleaning him up...and he passed away. We were both VERY surprised. After the shock wore off, all went very well. The family was amazing and so thankful for me being there for the process of getting him ready to leave with mortuary assts. I sometimes feel guilty for all the appreciation I get from families.<br /><br />The daughter is doing well in Jr. College and finished her first semester. The son is doing pretty well in high school, but still struggles in his English class. He is working hard now attempting to fix his bad grade. The hubby is still plugging along at the Jr hi, trying to teach even though there's a whole lot of pressure from the "clipboards" to teach to the tests. It's different, and he definitely is not feeling the joy that he's had for all these years. I'm sad for him.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TR_9ulzx4AI/AAAAAAAADLg/f_sdG3QmjFM/s1600/happy-new-year.gif"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 207px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557439442063581186" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TR_9ulzx4AI/AAAAAAAADLg/f_sdG3QmjFM/s320/happy-new-year.gif" /></a></p>Well a big Happy New Year, folks! I hope you are knowing God's closeness in your life. If not, I hope you are knowing your faith is not dependent on what you are feeling, but who God is. Have a great 2011.Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-4998270613135152072010-11-11T19:46:00.000-08:002010-11-11T19:50:02.183-08:00Freedom don't come free...<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN" lang="EN"><span style="font-family:Calibri;"><span style="color:#cc0000;">It is the soldier, not the reporter,<br />Who has given us freedom of the press.<br />It is the soldier, not the poet,<br />Who has given us freedom of speech.<br />It is the soldier, not the campus organizer,<br />Who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.<br />It is the soldier,<br />Who salutes the flag,<br />Who serves beneath the flag,<br />And whose coffin is draped by the flag,<br />Who allows the protester to burn the flag.- Father D. E. O'Brian, USMC<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal" align="center"><o:p><span style="font-family:Calibri;color:#cc0000;"> </span></o:p></p>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-52521304194397178642010-10-26T18:45:00.000-07:002010-10-26T19:20:46.465-07:00Hospice Nursing...<div align="left"> </div><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TMeHzim6i4I/AAAAAAAADLE/o4OtfcTj_wM/s1600/hospice_nurse_gifts_sticker-p217698909006039167tdcj_210.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532539986781047682" style="WIDTH: 210px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 210px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TMeHzim6i4I/AAAAAAAADLE/o4OtfcTj_wM/s320/hospice_nurse_gifts_sticker-p217698909006039167tdcj_210.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="left">I have gotten a new job, finally, and I have to say that it is not just a job, but a very definite love. I have planned on going into hospice nursing in the future, but after loosing my last job at large hospital, I had one darned of a time getting a new job. I was practically offered a RN job giving testosterone to all male clients 5 days a wk, 8 hrs a day, with an hour or more commute each way. Even though the wknds and holidays off thing was tempting, along with the pay, I just had to say no. It just didn't feeling my "caring" quota that I needed. So, after months of no hospital offers, I figured I would start looking into hospice jobs. When I called 8 hospices, all but 2 said they were hiring. I did not hear from any of them, but one that was not hiring. Within a day I had an interview, and the following day I had a "ride-along", and within 3 days of that, an interview with the CEO! I absolutely LOVED this godly woman, and we both had hearts of mercy for the dieing. This company was just so amazing. During the interview, she hired me on the spot! Wow....that has never happened in all my life! When she asked when I could start, I told her yesterday. Since it was Friday, she told me to come in on Monday to begin. And wham-bam, I started my training! It is strange compared to hospital nursing bc you work M-F, wknds and holidays off, and it pays the same as a hospital, with only 1/5 the stress!! I will work one big, and one little holiday each year, but I can live with that!! I have been going on four weeks, and I am loving it. I still have sooo much to learn, but I just feel like I have found my niche. I feel like this is where I want to be for the next 20 yrs. </p><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">And you know what they say....how time flies when you're having a good time???</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TMeEkDB2lkI/AAAAAAAADK8/tb1hBb2ju90/s1600/father-time-flying-past.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532536422071178818" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 237px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TMeEkDB2lkI/AAAAAAAADK8/tb1hBb2ju90/s320/father-time-flying-past.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div align="left">Well it has zoomed by.</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">The fam are doing well. My hubby is much relieved to see some checks coming in...even though we're being crazy taxed bc of two incomes! The daughter has transitioned very smoothly into college, and she's still very busy helping with the homeless and being a jr high leader at our church. My boy is plugging along his sophomore yr of high school. He still works on the farm (at school) twice a wk, and getting more into biking like his dear 'ole pa. He rode his unicycle at the Halloween cyclo-cross, and was a big deal! People were darned impressed, especially since the track was muddy, and had obstacles to hop. He was dressed as an 80's DJ, and my hubby was a lumberjack.</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">That's it for now, though I do have a very serious prayer request. A friend from high school, wife was accidentally shot, and appears to be paralyzed from the shoulders down. Please pray for her that God will knit together the nerves and will heal this family which is devastated. Thanks so much.</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TMeL9QGM8lI/AAAAAAAADLM/J3T37ZNZcVU/s1600/prayer.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532544551657206354" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TMeL9QGM8lI/AAAAAAAADLM/J3T37ZNZcVU/s320/prayer.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div align="left">"Father, hear our prayer."</div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-17310756008432619242010-09-22T07:47:00.000-07:002010-09-22T09:05:41.006-07:00cool and crispy fall leaves..<p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TJoX1bMvkQI/AAAAAAAADKc/Yfe4jwoCclA/s1600/FallColors4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519750499897676034" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TJoX1bMvkQI/AAAAAAAADKc/Yfe4jwoCclA/s320/FallColors4.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div> I absolutely LOVE Fall, it is my fave season of all. So yesterday was the official first day of fall. I love the cool nights, but dang there is some mean pollen attacking at night bc I am still waking up or going to bed with a terrible headache. Ya know...the older I get, the more allergies I get.</div><div><br />Nothing too new with me. I've been on the hunt of course, the wonderful world of the job hunt. Tomorrow I have an interview for a hospice nurse position. I am so darned excited, I could spit. It's for a full time position, and I'd have my own territory and 'team'. It sounds perfect. I've worked with hospice in the hospital and with my sister of course. It is an amazing honor and privilege to be there and help families and patients at the end. Please pray for me. I am also applying for some ICU positions as well, and will probably have a few interviews coming up for those.</div><div><br />Aaaaand along with that I've put on some pounds that I need to lose, which have been piling up as I try to comfort myself bc of the unemployment issue. I know a big sin for me weight-wise is the eating at night time. I have been over doing the carbs at night. So, I came up with a little plan for myself. If I am going to eat, I have to weigh myself first. It will keep me honest. So last night, I didn't do it. I need to keep doing this.... probably forever. ;0 </div><div><br />I've also changed up my workouts at the gym. I am now doing interval training on the treadmill which is really helping me to keeping my heart rate up, and I'm adding the elliptical machine. Although....just between you and me, I suck at that thing, and I can only last about 5 min.! My friends tell me to keep with it, and I will be able to stay on it longer and longer if I just keep it up.</div><div> </div><div></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TJongkwxNlI/AAAAAAAADKk/FmJz45D4g6U/s1600/assorted000.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519767733873489490" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TJongkwxNlI/AAAAAAAADKk/FmJz45D4g6U/s320/assorted000.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>I don't know if I've told you before, but I am a total addict of Korean Soaps. Not soup. Not suds, but Soaps, as in day-time dramas. The one I am watching now is adorable, it is called 'The Jewel Family'. I watch it on channel 18-3 on the digital stations. It is so cute.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>My family is doing fine, plugging away at various school work and activities. Have a lovely week, and again...Happy Fall!!</div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TJooofQC9MI/AAAAAAAADKs/VqJjXE1Zyeg/s1600/leaf.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519768969344644290" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TJooofQC9MI/AAAAAAAADKs/VqJjXE1Zyeg/s320/leaf.jpg" border="0" /></a></div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-44718991179280680872010-07-10T09:45:00.000-07:002010-07-10T10:11:14.543-07:00hello againI know it's been way too long since I've posted, so here goes. We were busy with the end of school, and graduation. Here's my daughter in her cap n gown. Uncle Tim, Eric's brother flew in from Maryland to be here on her big day. Isn't he the best??!! The week before her graduation, we had a little grad party with her friends and some of our friends. It was so fun. Loud...but fun!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDimi073nfI/AAAAAAAADJ0/9M1fOHEwPfg/s1600/DSC_0099.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492322862833835506" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDimi073nfI/AAAAAAAADJ0/9M1fOHEwPfg/s320/DSC_0099.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDimh4bC_GI/AAAAAAAADJk/ola9jjCj_88/s1600/DSC_0038.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492322846590041186" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDimh4bC_GI/AAAAAAAADJk/ola9jjCj_88/s320/DSC_0038.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDimiQRcKYI/AAAAAAAADJs/dulGbHKNt7c/s1600/DSC_0095.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492322852992199042" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDimiQRcKYI/AAAAAAAADJs/dulGbHKNt7c/s320/DSC_0095.JPG" border="0" /></a> That's her waving, after the big deal!<br /><br /><br />Let's see, while Uncle Tim was here, Eric took him and my boy camping. That was nice and relaxing for all. We (uncle Tim, hubby, myself, daughter and her boy friend) went and rode the big balloon at Irvine's Great Park. And of course the regular trip to Ruby's on the Pier. We were lucky enough too, for Uncle Tim to take all of us to Rainforest Cafe for a great meal. Thanks, Uncle Tim!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDioNnNMshI/AAAAAAAADJ8/jFcmhN6sriA/s1600/DSC_0142.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492324697394426386" style="WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDioNnNMshI/AAAAAAAADJ8/jFcmhN6sriA/s320/DSC_0142.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDioOPmeu4I/AAAAAAAADKE/Bm6YU_90d9I/s1600/DSC_0166.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492324708237884290" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TDioOPmeu4I/AAAAAAAADKE/Bm6YU_90d9I/s320/DSC_0166.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><div>We took a little vacation too, but I'll expound upon that at a later date, since I've blathered on enough for today.</div><div></div><div>P.S. GOOD LUCK Kirsten, I KNOW you passed!!!</div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-67290220072510212392010-06-09T09:02:00.000-07:002010-06-09T09:54:35.371-07:00End of the school year<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TA_CMi6MtwI/AAAAAAAADJc/ghtPYuygLS4/s1600/Congratulations.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480812792318310146" style="WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 205px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TA_CMi6MtwI/AAAAAAAADJc/ghtPYuygLS4/s320/Congratulations.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />First of all, congrats to all my nurse friends who just graduated from nursing school!! Whooo Hoooo! Time to take some over needed naps, and actually watch TV on occasion!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TA_BF90EheI/AAAAAAAADJM/FtnCngFycyA/s1600/12366742344018_yume_photo.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480811579769652706" style="WIDTH: 198px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TA_BF90EheI/AAAAAAAADJM/FtnCngFycyA/s320/12366742344018_yume_photo.jpg" border="0" /></a>(I have NO idea what this says, but I just loved those little toes!)<br /><br /><br />We've been busy around here with end of school year activities. I finally finished making daughters sr pics and announcements and mailed them out. I was very happy with them, and saved around $400.00. Can you believe it? Yeah, it's ridiculous what these company's charge, but especially that the schools endorse them. We had her award assembly, where she received that WONDERFUL scholarship! And then the senior banquet at church. Even though the tickets were $20.00 each, I am so glad we went, it was an excellent night and really marked the changes in their lives to come. (why couldn't we just do a free potluck???) Anyhoo, it was really excellent. Then on Saturday was her prom.<br />They had a great time at the <span style="color:#ff0000;">Peterson Automotive Museum <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TA_CL0apoLI/AAAAAAAADJU/G4O15LifXxA/s1600/car.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480812779837956274" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 212px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/TA_CL0apoLI/AAAAAAAADJU/G4O15LifXxA/s320/car.jpg" border="0" /></a> </span>in L.A. This wk I'm getting ready for a little grad party on Saturday. It will be a simple BBQ type of party, it will be fun. I bought bubbles, water guns, Frisbees and colored chalk so the teens don't get too bored.<br /><br /><br />I am still unemployed, and haven't been searching like I should. I guess I am kind of stuck with how to phrase why I left my last job. Yeah....what the heck to say. I think I've been down since I've been carb loading like there's no tomorrow. I have really got to get myself moving on. All prayers/good thoughts are appreciated. Where the heck to go/do next? Eeeesh.<br /><br />The boy has brought up his 4 D's so he doesn't lose his sheep. I am so proud of him. It is great to see him working so hard. Good job honey. He also has a new gal on his arm. Haven't met her yet, but I hear she's nice.<br /><br />The hubby has been cycling as usual. Yesterday he came home full of mud bc he had crashed twice. He's so cute. He just found out that he's going to be teaching History next year after teaching 20 yrs of English! He's nervous, but also kind of excited about it. He does have a double major in History, so I think he'll end up loving it. But he has TONS of stuff from all his yrs teaching English, and nothing for History, so he'll have to start gathering new stuff. I think this may actually be an answer to prayers over the last 2 yrs concerning some really stressful stuff at work.<br /><br />So...how are you?? Have a great end of spring time, and summer starts!Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-36194770347582426202010-05-24T11:48:00.001-07:002010-05-24T12:26:52.078-07:00CraftingSo, I finally finished making my Jewelery Frame. Yes, I invented this months ago, when I was on the hunt for something to hold my jewelery. I have never really like the jewelery box idea, so I've kept them in a bunch of separate dishes, and I would just plum forget what I had. So I wanted something that displayed it all. Don't get me wrong, most of my stuff is junk jewelery, but some of it is nice. I saw someone display it all on a wall with a bunch of nails. I liked that idea, but I didn't have that much room. Somehow, I thought of a frame, where I could put a bunch of hooks, nails and wire/chain to display it all. The effort paid off. I LOVE how it turned out! What do you think? Be honest with me, I can take it! My daughter loved it and wants one, so I will make her one too. I was going for whimsical. I think I still may end up putting on some sparkly stars and a few words here and there on the wood, but mostly, it's done! <div><div><div><div><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rO3_b-mjI/AAAAAAAADIk/uePGRu4kTLw/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474915758339168818" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rO3_b-mjI/AAAAAAAADIk/uePGRu4kTLw/s320/DSC_0006.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><div> </div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rO4cVTf3I/AAAAAAAADIs/tHUByDTtilU/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474915766095806322" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rO4cVTf3I/AAAAAAAADIs/tHUByDTtilU/s320/DSC_0003.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> I also decided to take my daughter's senior pictures, to save @ $300 from school. They came out so well. I've picked out my two fave for you to see.</div><div> </div><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rR1iVDjxI/AAAAAAAADJE/xbaLreUWuYE/s1600/DSC_0031black.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474919014700650258" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 226px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rR1iVDjxI/AAAAAAAADJE/xbaLreUWuYE/s320/DSC_0031black.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="right"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rO445LKII/AAAAAAAADI0/3vbCgPRE3IA/s1600/DSC_0035.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474915773762447490" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 233px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_rO445LKII/AAAAAAAADI0/3vbCgPRE3IA/s320/DSC_0035.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div></div></div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-61871900474836252602010-05-20T13:08:00.000-07:002010-05-20T13:13:13.471-07:00Just for fun...<p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_WXWj_DcEI/AAAAAAAADIc/cQXZ4qg2IFw/s1600/1vintswapbutton.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473447336011329602" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_WXWj_DcEI/AAAAAAAADIc/cQXZ4qg2IFw/s320/1vintswapbutton.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><span style="color:#333399;">Jenny, over at </span><a href="http://everyday-is-a-holiday.blogspot.com/2010/05/vintage-vacation-swap-sign-up-is-open.html"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Everyday is a Holiday</span></a><span style="color:#333399;"> is hostesing a fun vintage swap if anyone is interested. I've already signed up, I'm so darned excited.</span>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-892048889319593992010-05-17T11:52:00.000-07:002010-05-17T12:56:16.013-07:00One great weekend...<p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GdT9av4nI/AAAAAAAADIQ/dzXmBDCfNt4/s1600/nurseshortage.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472327988461691506" style="WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 235px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GdT9av4nI/AAAAAAAADIQ/dzXmBDCfNt4/s320/nurseshortage.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="left">Hi y'all, just wanted to check in to let you know that I am plugging away. I am back to the job search, this time with a better idea of what I want/don't want. I am still trying to find out where to find the geriatric jobs. I think I would love to work in one of the smaller care facilities, but they are harder to find. I am still applying for regular nursing jobs as well. In the meantime, I will sign up for flu shot nurse. It's not a career move, but it pays well enough while I'm on the hunt. I may sign up for home health also on a part-time schedule for the same reasons, plus it will keep some of my skills fresh.</p><div>This weekend was nice. I took the weekend to just breathe. I finished my embroidery project (T-towels)</div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GYzmB3CII/AAAAAAAADIA/xcFNJ2X1BzU/s1600/DSC_0416.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472323034380961922" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GYzmB3CII/AAAAAAAADIA/xcFNJ2X1BzU/s320/DSC_0416.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GYzyukbHI/AAAAAAAADII/96kUvVzbuTE/s1600/DSC_0422.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472323037789711474" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GYzyukbHI/AAAAAAAADII/96kUvVzbuTE/s320/DSC_0422.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div><div>for my friends birthday. It was so fun.</div><br /><div>I made <a href="http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/320/Fat_Tuesday_Noodles_With_Smoked_Sausage_and_Shrimp50206.shtml"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Fat Tuesday Noodles with Smoked Sausage & Shrimp</span></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GXorcMECI/AAAAAAAADH4/BCxCOa7wH5s/s1600/IMG_1939.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472321747343380514" style="WIDTH: 156px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 128px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S_GXorcMECI/AAAAAAAADH4/BCxCOa7wH5s/s320/IMG_1939.jpg" border="0" /></a> yesterday. It was spicy, and absolutely yummy. My fam went to see Ironman 2 which was so much fun. So overall, a wknd to just relax, and get used to the new "place" in which I find myself. </div><br /><div>Also this wknd our church "Left the Building". Which means, our church of a few thousand went out into the community to help with different activities/chores instead of church. They had something for every age to do. It was in the works for months, so it was well organized. So Saturday, I went to a convalescent hospital to entertain some lovelies there. We played Bingo, and sang some old songs. It was so much fun, you know I love these folks. My hubby helped clear some trails nearby, and my boy helped at a home that was falling apart. I love this concept, and would love it if they organized it twice a year.</div><br /><div>That's it for now, how are you??</div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-55594697284460623322010-05-11T12:20:00.000-07:002010-05-25T10:37:06.010-07:00not to be a Debbie Downer, but....<p align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S-mzm5dFVKI/AAAAAAAADHg/IHvENpnkWRY/s1600/2241985233_e0d9ebca5f.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470100703257384098" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S-mzm5dFVKI/AAAAAAAADHg/IHvENpnkWRY/s320/2241985233_e0d9ebca5f.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>I am not working at the same hospital at this time. So frustrating. I just felt like I was "getting" the time management down. I know I still have far to go, but I just felt like it will come with time. Now I will not have that opportunity.<br />Everyone keeps telling me that God has a plan, something better. I just want to care for others. This is what I do know, as I've been trying to sort through this:<br /><ul><li>Must work with geriatric pts. LOVE them.<br /></li><li>Must be physical job. I can't stand a butt job.</li><br /><li>Would prefer a steady schedule. I was off kilter with the constantly changing schedule.</li><br /><li>Would like to work within team, not isolated.</li></ul><br /><br />So I am walking on. All prayers are appreciated, really. God is my rock, and I will still praise Him.Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-65427184339415384922010-04-30T09:53:00.001-07:002010-05-25T10:40:08.881-07:00long time no hear...<p align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S9sTh9xajTI/AAAAAAAADHQ/TyPNO7Ur6AA/s1600/sinking-nurse.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465984046982663474" style="WIDTH: 128px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 198px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S9sTh9xajTI/AAAAAAAADHQ/TyPNO7Ur6AA/s320/sinking-nurse.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>to say I've been in the weeds is an understatement my friends.<br /><br />I sprained my foot climbing a bunch of rocks at the beach (loooooong story) and missed a whole wk of work. Following that, my mom passed away, so I took another wk off. For those of you who don't know, my mom has been in and out of hospitals for the last 2 yrs with respiratory issues from her COPD and very probable emphysema. Along with that, she had alzheimers which effected her memory/mind to forget how to walk, so she ended up in bed almost 24/7 except brief times in a cardiac chair. Her days were spent staring off. On a good day we could get some responses. It was so heartbreaking. Anyway, we decided to remove her from the ventilator, and she passed a few hours later with my brother, myself and our spouses at her side.<br /><br /><br /><br />So, it has been an extremely challenging last month. When I finally got back to work I was given two more wks of preceptoring. I know this is done, only to help me, but it is extremely challenging working with so many different preceptors, FIVE of them! They each want me to nurse in "their" way, so I have to constantly try to figure out what is wanted. I have 4 more days. My final 3 should be with a preceptor I have previously worked well with. If that all goes well, I will be on my own. So I am feeling darned overwhelmed, stressed out, and damned emotional to say the least. See why I haven't been blogging???<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S9sT9CuTCuI/AAAAAAAADHY/WLpWG-KOjAQ/s1600/CalgonTakeMeAway.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465984512168233698" style="WIDTH: 192px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 175px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S9sT9CuTCuI/AAAAAAAADHY/WLpWG-KOjAQ/s320/CalgonTakeMeAway.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />So..that is where I'm at. I work again tomorrow. Thank God it is the weekend which is a bit less stressful. Wish me luck!Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-43662492005874881512010-03-30T08:45:00.000-07:002010-05-25T10:35:00.508-07:00almost Easter<p align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S7IeWSndaCI/AAAAAAAADHA/kQK1K0yXAFA/s1600/easter2007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454455467002390562" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 291px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S7IeWSndaCI/AAAAAAAADHA/kQK1K0yXAFA/s320/easter2007.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p>and i'm going to be working. You know when you want to be a nurse that it's going to happen. Missing family holidays. Dang, it is harder than I thought it would be. Well, luckily, someone is organizing a big Easter potluck for all of us working. I am bringing a dessert. What should I bring?<br /></p><p>Work has been tough, and I have been struggling. I have asked for the optional extra preceptor days and got them, so I have 2 extra wks to get myself more efficient. I am absolutely LOVING my patients, and the nursing process, </p><p>The charge nurses are great, and so encouraging and the preceptors have been so patient with me and my fumblings.<br /><br />The kids and hubby are doing well, getting used to my new schedule as well. The boy is unicycling like crazy. The other day, he went 8 miles! The daughter is working a lot and being trained as a lead hostess. She loves her job, and has senioritis. She will graduate in just 2 months! Hubby is still riding every Saturday, and loves it.<br /><br />That's it for now, nothing new to report. How are you? What are you doing on Easter?? </p>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-83685762556947091972010-03-15T19:48:00.000-07:002010-05-25T10:42:04.112-07:00Are you kidding??!<p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449060255282283314" style="WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 194px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S57zbovMwzI/AAAAAAAADGw/91NYUDnVmg8/s320/angrybaby.jpg" border="0" /><br /></p>I thought it so funny that everyone that responded thought I was doing so well! Boy are you all wrong! I swear, I looked more "together" as a student! I am sinking! Help!!! That being said, I thank you all for supporting me. And...I know...every new nurse has told me, that they are feeling/doing the same as I. As I mentioned before, still DIEING.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S57zFtwdLYI/AAAAAAAADGo/dQTdppqTZUU/s1600-h/areyoykiddingme.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449059878672608642" style="WIDTH: 186px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 220px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S57zFtwdLYI/AAAAAAAADGo/dQTdppqTZUU/s320/areyoykiddingme.png" border="0" /></a>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-67575711047932879522010-03-13T09:22:00.000-08:002010-03-14T17:16:50.996-07:00Die...........eeeeen..<p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S5178f4cXOI/AAAAAAAADGY/VvkFiHLjzA4/s1600-h/6a00d8341c4e6153ef010535a11220970c-800wi.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448647403468774626" style="WIDTH: 283px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S5178f4cXOI/AAAAAAAADGY/VvkFiHLjzA4/s320/6a00d8341c4e6153ef010535a11220970c-800wi.png" border="0" /></a></p><div><br /><br /></div><div>I have NEVER worked so hard in my life, and continue to be behind. One step forward, 3 steps back! On Friday, I worked until 10! I cannot believe I worked a 15 hr day! It's all that damn charting! It is absurd! Okay, I know it's important, but couldn't they break it down so it's one linear document, so you don't have to bounce around here then there, etc! My new preceptor is great, and VERY patient with me. I went to a full load (4) of patients and it went okay, but I was always behind, and my preceptor was picking up my slack. I was lucky too, that I didn't have any discharges or admits, or i reeeeeeally would've been behind. I am loving being with these older people, they are wonderful (well, you know, mostly), but I still have SOOOooooo much to learn. </div><div><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S518OiAYoOI/AAAAAAAADGg/9y6PCbFFFcQ/s1600-h/550wearing_green_dancers.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448647713276600546" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 204px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S518OiAYoOI/AAAAAAAADGg/9y6PCbFFFcQ/s320/550wearing_green_dancers.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div><br />On the other hand, it's still sooo strange to get a paycheck. I mean, I EARNED that baby, but it's still so strange. We are paying off a bunch of debt bit by bit, so I am totally thankful. As of right now, I'm working on Easter which is a drag, since I've ALWAYS been here for holidays. I knew this was coming but it is still very hard. At least I'll be home for St. Patty's Day which is big around here. Irish stew? Bread pudding? I absolutely can't stand corned beef.<br /><br />Hubby and kids are doing well. K is gearing up for graduation and definitely struggling with this transition of more responsibility and the unknown. The boy is doing well and enjoying high school, and will soon be getting his goat...or sheep I can't remember. That will be loads of fun.<br /><br />So...how is everyone else out there in blog land?? I am lurking at least. Have a great week, and good luck to those of you who are readying for nursing school graduation!</div>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-36859843060205215392010-02-14T19:22:00.000-08:002010-02-14T20:08:30.163-08:00Finished Second week of Orientation<p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S3jBGE_62yI/AAAAAAAADGE/0yLp4PfPox4/s1600-h/07_41_1---Rusty-Chain_web.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438308860215089954" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 193px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S3jBGE_62yI/AAAAAAAADGE/0yLp4PfPox4/s320/07_41_1---Rusty-Chain_web.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>It was another long week, but much more hands on. My head is absolutely swimming from all the information handed to us in a packet, and competencies! I am completely OVERWHELMED! This week I will actually begin my preceptoring on the Stroke Unit. I am so impressed with the knowledge and manpower on this floor. We have a Stroke Director, Department Director, Nurse Educator, NP, PT, OT, ST, Social worker, case worker, and 2 stroke MD's who absolutely specialize, all for our little 19 bed unit! We will be moving to 35-40 beds in Aug/Sept, but still! I am feeling so nervous about starting since it's been NINE months since I've done any nursing! The other 3 new grad nurses in our unit all graduated just in December, and precepted at this hospital, so I feel like I'm the only one behind. But God is big, and will get me through!<br /><br /><br />That's it for now. It will be nice to go to nursing hours and miss the traffic a bit, but I'm not used to those 12 hr shifts that I used to do. Ah well, time to buck up! I will have one orientation day (through new grad ed) and two preceptoring days from here on out. Please pray for me, I'm so darned nervous...! I am definitely feeling rusty!Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-2997782716451151492010-02-07T17:07:00.000-08:002010-02-07T17:22:52.938-08:00My first week as an RN...<p align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S29mWdGFTWI/AAAAAAAADF8/UXjIFGKbkmA/s1600-h/rn.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435675811212774754" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 228px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S29mWdGFTWI/AAAAAAAADF8/UXjIFGKbkmA/s320/rn.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="left">One of my favorite moments this week was getting a work badge that said RN! Wow, so amazing! All week long we've been in orientation. A lot of useful information but driving me crazy sitting so much!! This next week, we'll get 3 days of lectures, and then 2 days at the end on our unit. Not nursing preceptoring but learning our floor, and all the other roles that make up our unit (secretary, tele tech, nursing ed, PT, OT, RT, NP etc) The only negative has been driving in horrible traffic. I am not on nursing hours so it usually takes me 45-1 hr on the way to the hospital and 1.5-2 hrs on the way home (all depending on <em>how bad</em> the traffic/accidents are). It's still so weird to me when I leave the hospital, that if I turn right, and drive a few blocks, there's the ocean. It shouldn't blow me away, I've grown up going to the beach, but it just <strong>being there </strong>is still so strange. Our new grad group is 14, and what a bunch of nice women...and one guy it is. That's all for now. It will be so strange to get a pay check on Thursday. How bizarre. Although NICELY bizarre. </p><p align="left"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S29mWIDh8tI/AAAAAAAADF0/HC4CxZrgi-M/s1600-h/nurse%2520diesel.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435675805564924626" style="WIDTH: 192px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S29mWIDh8tI/AAAAAAAADF0/HC4CxZrgi-M/s320/nurse%2520diesel.jpg" border="0" /></a>.....my hero.</p>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-68048967058895970072010-01-26T09:33:00.001-08:002010-01-26T09:56:34.434-08:00my ducks are lined up...<p align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S18pga459vI/AAAAAAAADFk/Zr2CYKxo1aU/s1600-h/ducks.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431105312582661874" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 209px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S18pga459vI/AAAAAAAADFk/Zr2CYKxo1aU/s320/ducks.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Well, I passed my second test yesterday that I needed to pass for Hoag...surprisingly! Dang it was a hard Pharm test. You could miss 12 questions to pass, and I missed 11, *blush* close, wasn't I?? So, I have completed the tests, took my drug screen test, and other health tests yesterday. I'm assuming I've passed all. So, I do believe they're stuck with me. Now I have to find somewhere to get a flu shot, or I have to wear a mask when caring for my bloody patients! Egad. I'll get the H1N1 tomorrow, even though I swear, I had that flu! So I have a bunch of last minute errands to get done before I start work on Monday. It will be orientation classes all next week, and start my preceptoring the following week. I am excited, and also scared *%^%$*less. Ah well, me of little faith. I'm working on it.<br /><p align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S18rcecBzhI/AAAAAAAADFs/G5Xpv-QoXWs/s1600-h/woman-driving-car-adjusting-mirror-applying-make-up-and-talking-on-cell-phone-with-multiple-arms-giclee-print-c12351517.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431107443839061522" style="WIDTH: 166px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 238px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S18rcecBzhI/AAAAAAAADFs/G5Xpv-QoXWs/s320/woman-driving-car-adjusting-mirror-applying-make-up-and-talking-on-cell-phone-with-multiple-arms-giclee-print-c12351517.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>That's it for now, other than my 18 y.o. getting her drivers licence. And still worrying when she drives off. Though I know she's being careful, she is also easily distracted. Such a strange year this is going to be. Me, working full time for the first time in a hundred years (though nursing school totally had the same or more hours!), my daughter graduating high school, and starting college, and my baby in high school. Yup, strange year.Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-32891937381681308842010-01-23T09:39:00.000-08:002010-01-23T10:12:31.981-08:00always the sloooooow way through...<p align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S1s4auKTCJI/AAAAAAAADFc/Ljle7GAkIn4/s1600-h/2749.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429995807444240530" style="WIDTH: 236px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S1s4auKTCJI/AAAAAAAADFc/Ljle7GAkIn4/s320/2749.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="left">Okay, I definitely think I should start a Dear Abby kind of column for nurses/students like myself. I swear, I always have to go the loooooooooooooong, sloooooooooooooow way around to get anywhere I'm going. And yes, I am able to totally laugh at myself....when my stomach stops cramping with stress. I do believe God is wanting to get my attention, slow me down, and make sure I'm relying on Him, and not myself. So the first time I took the EKG test, I failed one of the critical arrhythmia's. Only one. BUT....that being said, you could fail if you didn't recognize ANY of the 7 critical rhythms. Well, they are called critical because...well...well, okay, they are deadly, and if your patient had one of these, well, they could be a minute away from death. So yeah, it is RATHER important. Now I do know how important this is, it's not just a theory in a class, these are actual patients I will be taking care of so I do agree with this policy. But these EKG's on the test are REAL EKG's not text book, so I missed it. I retook it yesterday, and passed it. WHEW! I still have one more test to take, Pharm, on Monday, then I am set.<br /><br />I also got a call from the other hospital that I had an interview with, that I got a second interview for the ICU job I wanted. Only 4 people from 200 were chosen to have this second interview, and 2 will get it. Yeah, the odds were pretty good. Huh. Eight months without job offers, and now, two at one time. Of course this has totally stressed me out because I have wanted an ICU job, and it's an excellent new grad program. However, I am choosing the first hospital because I LOVE the nurses there, and I LOVE patients with neuro issues, especially older folks, and I think that I will learn sooo much from these women. (there may be some guy nurses there too, but I haven't met any yet) I cannot wait to start back in patient care, I miss them! This unit is a small one, and I totally love that. What a great way to start a new career, I can't wait.</p><p align="left"></p><p align="left">And it only took.....EIGHT bloody months! heeheee.<br /><br />I have totally loved all of this torrential down pour in S CA here. The only problem is that I've had a head cold from hell, and haven't gotten to the gym in a week, and my back is sooo achy from all the inactivity. I am gonna try to go today, sick or not.<br /><br />Have a lovely weekend, I hope things are blue skies and sunshine on this Saturday for you. </p>Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31863429.post-4328488622165429692010-01-19T08:58:00.000-08:002010-01-19T09:09:42.819-08:00Thanks...<p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S1XnKXbNgZI/AAAAAAAADFU/tiUAqc3i1Z0/s1600-h/cozy-fireplace-1610.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428499091137855890" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Um-rmEw0kUg/S1XnKXbNgZI/AAAAAAAADFU/tiUAqc3i1Z0/s320/cozy-fireplace-1610.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>for all of your encouragement. Did you see the comment left by Stacye on the last blog? She was the one who is responsible for getting me hired! That was the nicest comment, I actually teared up. And thanks everyone for all of your support. I still have to pass two tests before I can work. I wonder what would happen if I failed it twice? Would they toss me back out into the cold hard world of unemployment??? I don't know, so I've been studying EKG's until my eyes are crossed, and I'm getting it, actually getting it! I will take the EKG test tomorrow, and then a Pharm test (that's the one that's really got me sweating!) on Friday or Monday and a health exam by a nurse. Feb. 1st I will start orientation as long as I pass those 2 tests. So I am excited, and still quite nervous until I get those tests over with.<br /><br />In other news, I have a nasty, horrible, terrible, no good, very bad head cold. Yes, I am whining! And my dear daughter is taking her driving test tomorrow. She is very nervous, but I think she'll do okay. I wonder if they'll test her on the 3pt turn. We forgot to teach her that one. She's 18 so she won't have to go through the graduated (?) drivers licence. We put it off as long as we could folks. I think it was a good move, and she has never been in a big rush to get it anyway. My boy continues to grow like a weed, and is putting food away like there's no tomorrow.<br /><br />How are you, fill me in!Nursapaloozahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03592570219279412632noreply@blogger.com2