So in exactly 29 days i will be signing my life away and officially purchasing my house! I can't believe the time has come!!!! I am so excited! Just let keep our fingers crossed that my unit stays open and I work all the days I have scheduled!
I am on the schedule tonight and so far the unit is open so I'm off to go get ready! Good day folks...good day!
Hope everyone else is having a good day!
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
This weekend was monumental! My mom and grandmother (my closest family members) met my in-laws this weekend. EVERY.SINGLE.IN-LAW. It was a monumental SUCCESS!!!! My grandmother has the tendency to tire out easily and my mom has the tendency to shy away from loud people and big crowds. The potential for disaster was fairly high. Half of Chris' family is old, mint-julep SOUTHERN and the other is loud, vocal Italian-Italian... you know the kind Jersey, pasta, everybody loves Mama.... Anyway... needless to say there are a LOT of characters on his side. Its like if the Cake Boss (TLC... watch it if you haven't) met Steele Magnolias. Big personalities with big volumes and I love every minute of it. I was worried though, that my mom would be shy and my grandmother would be too tired but from the moment they arrived, they loved every moment of everyday too!!!
His family lives in Plains, GA. Its pretty much like Mayberry(no exaggeration). It's the home of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States.... and peanuts. History abounds, charm oozes from every storefront and around every corner is someone related to Chris' mom's in some shape or form. In 2.5 days we stayed and 37 meals we ate, we managed to meet, eat with and hear at least 2 embarrassing stories about each family member with the exception of a sister-in-law and a wayward brother. We laughed and ate and laughed and ate some more. We visited every Jimmy Carter exhibit known to man. Much to my surprise, my grandmother kept up. And mom didn't once feel the need to retreat into herself. There was never lack for conversation nor was there any awkwardness. In fact my grandmother said she never felt more rested or rejuvenated after a vacation. She's still talking about what a good time she had.
I am so relieved that everyone likes everyone! I felt the beginnings of traditions forming. I see us ALL getting together for holidays, birthdays and just because. I can't wait for our kids to grow up in the love and acceptance I felt as we sat around the dinner table. It feels like we've always been family. We fit and it feels like home.
what a good weekend!!!!
His family lives in Plains, GA. Its pretty much like Mayberry(no exaggeration). It's the home of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States.... and peanuts. History abounds, charm oozes from every storefront and around every corner is someone related to Chris' mom's in some shape or form. In 2.5 days we stayed and 37 meals we ate, we managed to meet, eat with and hear at least 2 embarrassing stories about each family member with the exception of a sister-in-law and a wayward brother. We laughed and ate and laughed and ate some more. We visited every Jimmy Carter exhibit known to man. Much to my surprise, my grandmother kept up. And mom didn't once feel the need to retreat into herself. There was never lack for conversation nor was there any awkwardness. In fact my grandmother said she never felt more rested or rejuvenated after a vacation. She's still talking about what a good time she had.
I am so relieved that everyone likes everyone! I felt the beginnings of traditions forming. I see us ALL getting together for holidays, birthdays and just because. I can't wait for our kids to grow up in the love and acceptance I felt as we sat around the dinner table. It feels like we've always been family. We fit and it feels like home.
what a good weekend!!!!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
I am absolutely, positively, in-my-bones exhausted! I have had the most emotional week this week. And its only Thursday...6 a.m. on Thursday.
I've been building a house as everyone knows. AND planning a wedding... So with both of those things comes the need for lots of money. I've been working like my life depends on it for several months now, putting EVERY un-allotted penny into savings. I've gone without...you should see my hair and my toes! The usually freshly painted piggies are naked and my heels are beginning to feel like sandpaper (how that's possible when my feet are constantly in shoes is beyond me). Don't get me started on the 2 shades darker roots that are making their way to my ears...and the grey hair!!!!! My WORD!
I'm at the home stretch with saving for my house. I've got just a little more money to save but the couple of extra shifts at work should tie up loose ends and even allow for a hefty down payment on the weding cruise. EXCEPT....... my unit at work closed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! But wait, mine isn't the only one. There are 2 ICU's that have indefintely shut down!
My hospital has become very budget conscious lately and the powers that be are going to extreme measures to get back into the black. The nurses are taking a huge hit. I have no idea when I'll be able to work a full schedule. I've been lucky the past couple of days and have picked up some of my shifts in another unit. I was informed though that I can't keep doing that for several reasons. 1. I have to be available for my unit in case it re-opens despite the fact that there are no plans for that, 2. Other nurses (who's units have closed or who actually belong to the open units) can work too.
On top of not knowing when I'm going to work, I used up all my PTO (vacation time) because A. this isn't the first time this has happened, B. I was sick several months back and had to miss some work, C. I wasn't able to work a few days this closing so I had to use what was left.
I'm so conflicted! I have so many financial demands right now. I am scared to DEATH that I'm not going to be able to keep up and I'm going to lose what I've been working so hard for. I've been looking at job options available out there. The search has been dismal at best. I've always wanted to do what I'm doing now. The thought of starting something new...especially right now, is daunting. I can't imagine being another kind of nurse. I've toyed with the idea of going back to school but now is also not a good time. With Chris being in school and taking on a new mortage, I think that would be taking on too much.
I'm tryin to stay positive. I'm praying that the unit will re-open and I can resume work as usual. It's so hard to have faith that things are going to be ok with the obstacles seem insurrmountable. But I guess that's when you need faith the most...
On a different note...my mom and grandmother are meeting the in-laws this weekend. We're all driving over to GA to spend some quality time with one another before we all become hitched. It should be fun. I like my in-laws. I think I lucked out. I could use some time away to forget about work or lack thereof. Should be fun! I'll let ya know how it goes!
I've been building a house as everyone knows. AND planning a wedding... So with both of those things comes the need for lots of money. I've been working like my life depends on it for several months now, putting EVERY un-allotted penny into savings. I've gone without...you should see my hair and my toes! The usually freshly painted piggies are naked and my heels are beginning to feel like sandpaper (how that's possible when my feet are constantly in shoes is beyond me). Don't get me started on the 2 shades darker roots that are making their way to my ears...and the grey hair!!!!! My WORD!
I'm at the home stretch with saving for my house. I've got just a little more money to save but the couple of extra shifts at work should tie up loose ends and even allow for a hefty down payment on the weding cruise. EXCEPT....... my unit at work closed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! But wait, mine isn't the only one. There are 2 ICU's that have indefintely shut down!
My hospital has become very budget conscious lately and the powers that be are going to extreme measures to get back into the black. The nurses are taking a huge hit. I have no idea when I'll be able to work a full schedule. I've been lucky the past couple of days and have picked up some of my shifts in another unit. I was informed though that I can't keep doing that for several reasons. 1. I have to be available for my unit in case it re-opens despite the fact that there are no plans for that, 2. Other nurses (who's units have closed or who actually belong to the open units) can work too.
On top of not knowing when I'm going to work, I used up all my PTO (vacation time) because A. this isn't the first time this has happened, B. I was sick several months back and had to miss some work, C. I wasn't able to work a few days this closing so I had to use what was left.
I'm so conflicted! I have so many financial demands right now. I am scared to DEATH that I'm not going to be able to keep up and I'm going to lose what I've been working so hard for. I've been looking at job options available out there. The search has been dismal at best. I've always wanted to do what I'm doing now. The thought of starting something new...especially right now, is daunting. I can't imagine being another kind of nurse. I've toyed with the idea of going back to school but now is also not a good time. With Chris being in school and taking on a new mortage, I think that would be taking on too much.
I'm tryin to stay positive. I'm praying that the unit will re-open and I can resume work as usual. It's so hard to have faith that things are going to be ok with the obstacles seem insurrmountable. But I guess that's when you need faith the most...
On a different note...my mom and grandmother are meeting the in-laws this weekend. We're all driving over to GA to spend some quality time with one another before we all become hitched. It should be fun. I like my in-laws. I think I lucked out. I could use some time away to forget about work or lack thereof. Should be fun! I'll let ya know how it goes!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Chris and I went to our house at midnight tonight on a whim. I LOVE LOVE LOVE it! It already... bare walls, empty rooms and all...feels like home. We were talking about where furniture will fit, what pictures I want where. I can't wait to bring it to life! I could feel us living there... married... cooking dinner, paying bills, entertaining friends, the whole 9! I have wanted this for so long. THIS! This house, this man, this life! I can't believe I am watching my dreams come into fruition! I am so blessed! I can't wait to see where life takes us!
Wedding plans are starting to take shape. We decided to hop on a boat and get married on an island somewhere. Well, not just anywhere. More specifically St Thomas in the Virgin Islands. Its turning out to be the best idea we could've come up with. Its the most cost effective since Chris is in school and only working part time. It allows us to get married and go on a honeymoon all at once. It looks like we're going to set sail March 20th and I think that makes our wedding day March 23rd. Little known fact is our wedding date will be exactly our 2 year anniversary of reuniting. YAY how sweet huh???
So its been a while since I posted pics of my house so I'll close with one....the final product...I am so proud of her!
Wedding plans are starting to take shape. We decided to hop on a boat and get married on an island somewhere. Well, not just anywhere. More specifically St Thomas in the Virgin Islands. Its turning out to be the best idea we could've come up with. Its the most cost effective since Chris is in school and only working part time. It allows us to get married and go on a honeymoon all at once. It looks like we're going to set sail March 20th and I think that makes our wedding day March 23rd. Little known fact is our wedding date will be exactly our 2 year anniversary of reuniting. YAY how sweet huh???
So its been a while since I posted pics of my house so I'll close with one....the final product...I am so proud of her!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
House house and more house
So here's the latest development with my house....
The livingroom from the front door. You can see into the kitchen and dining area.
The dining area from the kitchen
Down the front hallway into an exra bedroom
I'll have electricity one day!
...and water
My garden tub!!!!
The roof is shingled!
The siding is going up...it won't be that color though
The other side is waiting...
The windows are in!!!
So that's it for now. More to come soon! Stay tuned!
So that's it for now. More to come soon! Stay tuned!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Sunday Slideshow
Its been a whole 8 days since the last blog about my house. What a difference 8 days can make! Here's an update in pictures....
The foundation
Looking down on the foundation from the back
Literally 1 day after the foundation was poured, I found this
And then 1 day after that...
And then.....
From the side
The back
I cannot believe how fast this house is being built! I am more and more excited to start my life living in it! More updates to come! Stay tuned!
I cannot believe how fast this house is being built! I am more and more excited to start my life living in it! More updates to come! Stay tuned!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Random at 4a.m.
Because night shift is a different beast altogether, I am up at 4a.m. with a few random things on my mind....
1. MY HAIR! Oh my for the love of Pete I need a hair cut!!!! It's been 3 months! I usually get it done every 4 weeks or so but thanks to Shingles on my face and scalp... we're at an all time high! No worries! Thursday's the day! Only 5 days but who's counting????
2. We have dog company at my house. My roommate is dog sitting. I must say I love this dog! He is WIRED and little and DOESN'T SHED!!!!! PERFECT!
3. I saw Carrie Underwood last night. Awesome Show. I was struck though by the CONSTANT stream of folks walking back and forth from Lord knows where during the performance! When did it become ok to a. not pay attention to someone FAMOUS performing her heart out for you and b. to disturb people actually paying attention and trying to enjoy themselves by standing in their line of sight or crawling over them with your GAGGLE of children (who should be in bed in all honesty)? Just curious.
4. I have to house sit for my mother this week and have yet to pack a thing. Its 4 a.m and I'm blogging instead...I have a feeling I'm gonna be a bit rushed before work tomorrow....
With that...I think I should go to bed....
1. MY HAIR! Oh my for the love of Pete I need a hair cut!!!! It's been 3 months! I usually get it done every 4 weeks or so but thanks to Shingles on my face and scalp... we're at an all time high! No worries! Thursday's the day! Only 5 days but who's counting????
2. We have dog company at my house. My roommate is dog sitting. I must say I love this dog! He is WIRED and little and DOESN'T SHED!!!!! PERFECT!
3. I saw Carrie Underwood last night. Awesome Show. I was struck though by the CONSTANT stream of folks walking back and forth from Lord knows where during the performance! When did it become ok to a. not pay attention to someone FAMOUS performing her heart out for you and b. to disturb people actually paying attention and trying to enjoy themselves by standing in their line of sight or crawling over them with your GAGGLE of children (who should be in bed in all honesty)? Just curious.
4. I have to house sit for my mother this week and have yet to pack a thing. Its 4 a.m and I'm blogging instead...I have a feeling I'm gonna be a bit rushed before work tomorrow....
With that...I think I should go to bed....
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Catching up
I'm such a terrible blogger! I'm gonna blame my absence on my unGODLY work schedule leaving me only time to sleep and work some more....do I sound pitiful?
I have actually had some time to do a little shopping though. HOUSE shopping that is! I've known for a while that I want a house. I'm ready to put GOBS of money toward something I OWN at the end of the day! I also just knew I wanted to move back to a bigger city, namely Birmingham. So most of my shopping was directed in that area. And Birmingham DID NOT disappoint! I found PLENTY of places I wouldn't mind living! The only thing slowing me down and stressing me out was the supply of jobs...or lack there of! As a nurse, I've taken for granted that I would always be in demand or that I could pick up and go anywhere and be able to step into a job. Not so folks, simply not so! Nursing is just like any other career out there and is just as effected by supply and demand. Needless to say, the job search at best was dismal.
My current apartment lease ends in November. So the pressure was on to find a house and a job. Added to the mix is trying to figure out how I'm going to manage a long-distance relationship. Distance doesn't usually bode well for couples, so the fear of my relationship falling apart was also in the back of my mind. Chris (my BF) is starting school here in Montgomery and is also locked into a lease of his own. We are at the stage in our relationship where marriage is definitely in our future so space is not something we want... or need.
Needless to say, I've been stressed and confused and worried. As much as I hate to admit it, I am hard wired to worry. And its only gotten worse as I've gotten older. I literally worried myself sick! After a long and very painful bout of daily headaches, indigestion and a horrible case of shingles (on my face!!!!!), I made a decision! I decided all signs were keeping me close to home. I can't, in good conscious, buy a house on a wing and a prayer that a job will follow. Commuting long term back and forth from Birmingham to Montgomery defeats that purpose of moving and is therefore, not an option. With Chris in school, our time together is limited anyway, WHY would I move so far away from him and risk NEVER seeing him? PLUS, I would be moving away from my mom and grandmother...who combined with Chris are my WORLD!!!!
Deciding to stay put, I started looking at houses in Montgomery and relunctently in my home town. Suprisingly, I found exactly what I was looking for in the last place I thought I'd find it. I have put up a valiant fight to never move back to my home town for as long as I can remember. But seeing that MY plans were only making me sick, I opted to broadend my thinking and embrace the possibility of making my old home town, my new one too. I found a new neighborhood that I fell in LOVE with! There are only about 10 houses there now with plans for about 200 more! The builders are energy conscious and build the houses "green" so to speak. I've signed a million papers including a check....and bought myself a little piece of property on a street with a cute little name and I'm building myself a little home where Chris and I will live "Happily Ever After".
Now the headaches and indestion are gone! The only sign of shingles is a scar on my forehead. I lie awake at night now wondering where I'm going to put my couch or where I'm going to hang my paintings. I don't mind that so much!
Construction has begun. Well, the beginning of construction anyyway. I've picked out colors of paint,(doesn't "Beach House" sound warm and inviting?) and granite and tile and carpet and door styles (by the way, my front door WILL be red!!!). I have signed off on every light can, every bush, and every shingle! It is supposed to take only 60 days to complete! I can't believe it! Everything is so surreal but feels so very right!
I don't have many pictures yet as there isn't much to show of my home but I'm going to show you what I've got. There will be more to come and I can't wait to show you!
This is my little patch of home. The site is being graded
This is the frame for the foundation
I have actually had some time to do a little shopping though. HOUSE shopping that is! I've known for a while that I want a house. I'm ready to put GOBS of money toward something I OWN at the end of the day! I also just knew I wanted to move back to a bigger city, namely Birmingham. So most of my shopping was directed in that area. And Birmingham DID NOT disappoint! I found PLENTY of places I wouldn't mind living! The only thing slowing me down and stressing me out was the supply of jobs...or lack there of! As a nurse, I've taken for granted that I would always be in demand or that I could pick up and go anywhere and be able to step into a job. Not so folks, simply not so! Nursing is just like any other career out there and is just as effected by supply and demand. Needless to say, the job search at best was dismal.
My current apartment lease ends in November. So the pressure was on to find a house and a job. Added to the mix is trying to figure out how I'm going to manage a long-distance relationship. Distance doesn't usually bode well for couples, so the fear of my relationship falling apart was also in the back of my mind. Chris (my BF) is starting school here in Montgomery and is also locked into a lease of his own. We are at the stage in our relationship where marriage is definitely in our future so space is not something we want... or need.
Needless to say, I've been stressed and confused and worried. As much as I hate to admit it, I am hard wired to worry. And its only gotten worse as I've gotten older. I literally worried myself sick! After a long and very painful bout of daily headaches, indigestion and a horrible case of shingles (on my face!!!!!), I made a decision! I decided all signs were keeping me close to home. I can't, in good conscious, buy a house on a wing and a prayer that a job will follow. Commuting long term back and forth from Birmingham to Montgomery defeats that purpose of moving and is therefore, not an option. With Chris in school, our time together is limited anyway, WHY would I move so far away from him and risk NEVER seeing him? PLUS, I would be moving away from my mom and grandmother...who combined with Chris are my WORLD!!!!
Deciding to stay put, I started looking at houses in Montgomery and relunctently in my home town. Suprisingly, I found exactly what I was looking for in the last place I thought I'd find it. I have put up a valiant fight to never move back to my home town for as long as I can remember. But seeing that MY plans were only making me sick, I opted to broadend my thinking and embrace the possibility of making my old home town, my new one too. I found a new neighborhood that I fell in LOVE with! There are only about 10 houses there now with plans for about 200 more! The builders are energy conscious and build the houses "green" so to speak. I've signed a million papers including a check....and bought myself a little piece of property on a street with a cute little name and I'm building myself a little home where Chris and I will live "Happily Ever After".
Now the headaches and indestion are gone! The only sign of shingles is a scar on my forehead. I lie awake at night now wondering where I'm going to put my couch or where I'm going to hang my paintings. I don't mind that so much!
Construction has begun. Well, the beginning of construction anyyway. I've picked out colors of paint,(doesn't "Beach House" sound warm and inviting?) and granite and tile and carpet and door styles (by the way, my front door WILL be red!!!). I have signed off on every light can, every bush, and every shingle! It is supposed to take only 60 days to complete! I can't believe it! Everything is so surreal but feels so very right!
I don't have many pictures yet as there isn't much to show of my home but I'm going to show you what I've got. There will be more to come and I can't wait to show you!
Friday, September 04, 2009
Contentment...or something kinda like it...
My brother is always doing this thing where he waits around. He is always in a state of "about to"...about to start school, to start a business, to move out on his own; about to get serious about this girl. He's always on the look out for a better car, better clothes, better gadgets...he's always taking gifts back for a better model/version. It DRIVES ME CRAZY!!!!!!!!!! He comes to me for advice about what he should do with his life and I find myself always telling him to "go for it". Whatever "it" is...whatever his ambition, I try to encourage him to get started and accomplish whatever will make him happy or get him excited about life. OR if it's a goal that's a little too lofty for reality, my advice is to be still and find happiness...or at least that all elusive contentment in where he is or what he's doing. But ALAS...he just waits. He waits just in case the timing is not right or just in case something better comes along. He doesn't commit so that he'll be ready to take that better opportunity when it arises. GRRRR....
As frustrated as I get with him, I'm finding myself not having much room to talk these days. I have been in a state of transition for quite some time. I've been in school, out of school, learning new jobs, moving around, back in school, out of school, moving, learning new jobs, moving..new jobs...see a pattern? So now I've been in one spot for a while. Things feel like they are falling into place. But now I find myself feeling a little of what my brother must feel....I'm feeling this need to find something new....I can't figure out what it is...I DETEST moving but I'm looking at houses...IN BIRMINGHAM!!!! I love what I do! I can't imagine being anything other than a nurse...a critical care/cardiac nurse. But again I'm thinking about finding something new.
I can't tell if my spirit is being stirred by God...that I'm feeling the urge to move/change because I am SUPPOSED to or if I'm just giving in to the discontentment that seems to plague others in my family. I believe in following where God leads and will GLADLY do so. I just wish He worked in neon signs and road maps! I'm not asking for much...If I am supposed to go somewhere else or do something else...great! FINE!!! Otherwise... if not, I need a little contentment or something kinda like it....
As frustrated as I get with him, I'm finding myself not having much room to talk these days. I have been in a state of transition for quite some time. I've been in school, out of school, learning new jobs, moving around, back in school, out of school, moving, learning new jobs, moving..new jobs...see a pattern? So now I've been in one spot for a while. Things feel like they are falling into place. But now I find myself feeling a little of what my brother must feel....I'm feeling this need to find something new....I can't figure out what it is...I DETEST moving but I'm looking at houses...IN BIRMINGHAM!!!! I love what I do! I can't imagine being anything other than a nurse...a critical care/cardiac nurse. But again I'm thinking about finding something new.
I can't tell if my spirit is being stirred by God...that I'm feeling the urge to move/change because I am SUPPOSED to or if I'm just giving in to the discontentment that seems to plague others in my family. I believe in following where God leads and will GLADLY do so. I just wish He worked in neon signs and road maps! I'm not asking for much...If I am supposed to go somewhere else or do something else...great! FINE!!! Otherwise... if not, I need a little contentment or something kinda like it....
Monday, August 24, 2009
I'm getting excited!
I am SOOOOOO ready for football season...can you tell? My kitchen is all decked out and my flower bed has the most adorable flag! Bring on the tailgating! A little early but..... WAAARRRR EAGLE ya'll!!!
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
maybe a sign...but for what?
i just found out that my brother's girlfriend (of all people) is going to buy the house that I had my eye on.....SERIOUSLY had my eye on!!!! I'm just wondering if this is stop sign from above blocking my attempts to buy, saying I should wait....ORRRRR is it a sign saying get a move on... if I don't make a move, someone else will... hmmmm am I overthinking this... should I just jump in and hold on for the ride????
Monday, July 27, 2009
A lot on my mind...
I have some big decisions on my mind right now and have no idea what to do about them...really just one that I kinda feel pulled around about...
I want to buy a house... I think. No I'm pretty sure I want to buy a house. I know the economy is kinda perfect to buy a house right now. But here's the thing. The economy is also forcing my job to cancel all contracts. I am a contract nurse. So that means I am going to lose a good portion of my income... VERY SOON! I am told that upon expiration of my contract, I will have the option to become a full time employee of my hospital or...hit the road. Becoming a full time employee is where the pay cut comes.... If administration actually holds true to their promise, I won't have to worry about a pay cut until March 2010. HOWEVER, I've heard rumor that all contracts are going to end THIS October no if's, and's or but's. (Usually, I don't pay attention to rumors but at this hospital...and especially money rumors, tend to come true... so I listen). So I'm thinking I need to delay the house hunt until I know for sure what my actual pay is going to be. I don't think it would be a good idea to base financial investments on something that is probably going to take a nose dive shortly. That being said, the problem with waiting is my lease is up at my apartment in November. That's about 4 months folks! My roommates and I have decided that all 3 of us together is not the best combo, although we love each other dearly, living together...NOT GOOD!!! But then again, I am torn because one of us benefits GREATLY from having a rent that is divided and split bills...I hate the idea of leaving this person strapped...I know how that feels. I am ready for my own space again. I want to make decisions and not worry about how it affects 2 other people. We argue a lot too and I am WAY to old for that! I know conflict is inevitable from time to time but COME ON!!! If I can have a conflict free (or greatly reduced) life... believe me I'm on board!!!
....I'm thinking about changing jobs. I LOVE LOVE LOVE bedside nursing. I HATE HATE HATE how tired it has made me and how out of touch my life has become. I NEVER get to see my family. I've lost touch with friends. I can't see my boyfriend much. I can't go to church enough to reap the benefits of having a community of faith. Working 12 hour nights (7 in a row) keeps me almost completely out of touch with the real world. I would be so sad to leave my job but my friends and family are what make my life. Having no time for them has changed me.... not for the better. So with my contract ending, I would love for it to be a transition into a new job.... one that is more in line with the rest of society. Health care in general is usually not in line with the rest of society in a 9-5 kinda way...seeing as how people usually can't predict when they are going to need our services. But I really want to be back on a schedule that will afford me more time to be with people. 9-5 kinda schedule in health care usually means something like a doctors office or outpatient services... I CANNOT imagine not working in a hospital!!!! I would die of boredom in an office I think. Home health... no thanks! So..... I don't know what to do...
I did get to go to church the other day. The sermon was about waiting on and listening to God. So that's what I'm going to do for now. I am going to try to quiet my my spirit and allow God's voice to direct me on where to go... its no fun though....just so ya know
I want to buy a house... I think. No I'm pretty sure I want to buy a house. I know the economy is kinda perfect to buy a house right now. But here's the thing. The economy is also forcing my job to cancel all contracts. I am a contract nurse. So that means I am going to lose a good portion of my income... VERY SOON! I am told that upon expiration of my contract, I will have the option to become a full time employee of my hospital or...hit the road. Becoming a full time employee is where the pay cut comes.... If administration actually holds true to their promise, I won't have to worry about a pay cut until March 2010. HOWEVER, I've heard rumor that all contracts are going to end THIS October no if's, and's or but's. (Usually, I don't pay attention to rumors but at this hospital...and especially money rumors, tend to come true... so I listen). So I'm thinking I need to delay the house hunt until I know for sure what my actual pay is going to be. I don't think it would be a good idea to base financial investments on something that is probably going to take a nose dive shortly. That being said, the problem with waiting is my lease is up at my apartment in November. That's about 4 months folks! My roommates and I have decided that all 3 of us together is not the best combo, although we love each other dearly, living together...NOT GOOD!!! But then again, I am torn because one of us benefits GREATLY from having a rent that is divided and split bills...I hate the idea of leaving this person strapped...I know how that feels. I am ready for my own space again. I want to make decisions and not worry about how it affects 2 other people. We argue a lot too and I am WAY to old for that! I know conflict is inevitable from time to time but COME ON!!! If I can have a conflict free (or greatly reduced) life... believe me I'm on board!!!
....I'm thinking about changing jobs. I LOVE LOVE LOVE bedside nursing. I HATE HATE HATE how tired it has made me and how out of touch my life has become. I NEVER get to see my family. I've lost touch with friends. I can't see my boyfriend much. I can't go to church enough to reap the benefits of having a community of faith. Working 12 hour nights (7 in a row) keeps me almost completely out of touch with the real world. I would be so sad to leave my job but my friends and family are what make my life. Having no time for them has changed me.... not for the better. So with my contract ending, I would love for it to be a transition into a new job.... one that is more in line with the rest of society. Health care in general is usually not in line with the rest of society in a 9-5 kinda way...seeing as how people usually can't predict when they are going to need our services. But I really want to be back on a schedule that will afford me more time to be with people. 9-5 kinda schedule in health care usually means something like a doctors office or outpatient services... I CANNOT imagine not working in a hospital!!!! I would die of boredom in an office I think. Home health... no thanks! So..... I don't know what to do...
I did get to go to church the other day. The sermon was about waiting on and listening to God. So that's what I'm going to do for now. I am going to try to quiet my my spirit and allow God's voice to direct me on where to go... its no fun though....just so ya know
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Blizzards in March... of course
Not much is blog worthy in my life these days. But the weather sure is news worthy...see for yourself
Winter Wonderland outside my house
Buster the mini snowman
Frozen palm trees...not a sight you see everyday
view from my balcony
Nothing like it...
pool side
Another aerial shot
Funny thing is, earlier this week it was a balmy 73 degrees...and yesterday we were bracing for tornados... go figure...
Funny thing is, earlier this week it was a balmy 73 degrees...and yesterday we were bracing for tornados... go figure...
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Oh the memories...
My roommates and I had the coziest afternoon today! We got up early and baked sugar cookies and then spent HOURS loading them up with frosting and sprinkles while listening to Celine Dion belt out carols as only Celine can. It was SO much fun! My family traditionally gets together for an annual gingerbread-house-from-scratch/cookie decorating party a few days before Christmas in preparation for the upcoming feast. We would all be covered from head to toe with icing and sprinkles and usually more decorations ended up in our tummies than on the cookies. It always felt magical and perfect. Unfortunately, my family has scattered to the four corners and everyone has grown up. Jobs and distance have put a halt to our Ol' Fashion Christmas tradition. In fact it has been nearly 6 years or so since we've all been together for the holidays. Being fiercely in favor of holiday traditions, my heart has been so sad not to have our annual icing party. So today's festivites brought back the warm, fuzzy memories of my childhood... though this time around there was a lot more icing on the cookies and less on my shirt and jeans :) Again my job got in the way and I had to stop decorating WAY before I was ready. But it felt so nice to have my favorite tradition back in full swing and to share it with new folks who have quickly become a huge part of my life and dare I say, my extended family.
MMMMMM 
I hope you all are feeling the warm fuzzies that the holidays bring! Be sure to honor your old traditions or create some new ones (and stick with 'em)!
Happy Monday before Christmas!
I hope you all are feeling the warm fuzzies that the holidays bring! Be sure to honor your old traditions or create some new ones (and stick with 'em)!
Happy Monday before Christmas!
Friday, December 12, 2008
ahhhh
Usually I do my hair myself. I have a hard time paying the unGODly prices at salons for a haircut and forget about getting it colored! LORDY be it costs an arm and a leg. Having said that, I also LOVE having cute hair and am usually pretty diligent about the upkeep of my hair. However, life has gotten the better of me and mine was looking pretty shabby lately. So I decided to splurge. Besides, the work it would take to get my hair into decent shape would require a little more skill and a few more hands than I have.
I made an appointment at a local, higher end salon and found what could quite possibly be Heaven right here in east Montgomery. I guess I should be ashamed that it took 3 HOURS to get my hair into shape... but it did and I'm not. I LOVED every minute of it! My stylist gave me a robe to change into (a first for me) and then spent a good bit of time finding just the right shade that made my eyes "pop". And then... this woman had hands of an angel! I kid you not! I have a very tender head. Most salon sessions are tortuous for me. Not one little baby hair misses a painful tug. Anyway, this time was different. I barely felt the comb in my hair or the stylist's hands wash, cut, dye or style my hair. It was like a 3 hour head massage!!! It was WONDERFUL!!!! The end product is nice. It the first hair cut I haven't had to make excuses for i.e. "it'll look better when it grows out a little", or "it always freaks out a little right after a new haircut". But the process was the best! It was just what the doctor ordered! I've been so stressed out lately and after a few short hours in the salon... everything seems so much better! It really does pay to pamper yourself every once in a while! I highly recommend it!
I made an appointment at a local, higher end salon and found what could quite possibly be Heaven right here in east Montgomery. I guess I should be ashamed that it took 3 HOURS to get my hair into shape... but it did and I'm not. I LOVED every minute of it! My stylist gave me a robe to change into (a first for me) and then spent a good bit of time finding just the right shade that made my eyes "pop". And then... this woman had hands of an angel! I kid you not! I have a very tender head. Most salon sessions are tortuous for me. Not one little baby hair misses a painful tug. Anyway, this time was different. I barely felt the comb in my hair or the stylist's hands wash, cut, dye or style my hair. It was like a 3 hour head massage!!! It was WONDERFUL!!!! The end product is nice. It the first hair cut I haven't had to make excuses for i.e. "it'll look better when it grows out a little", or "it always freaks out a little right after a new haircut". But the process was the best! It was just what the doctor ordered! I've been so stressed out lately and after a few short hours in the salon... everything seems so much better! It really does pay to pamper yourself every once in a while! I highly recommend it!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Who knew???
I'm not sure if this is old news or not. Since I work such crazy hours and shifts, I am sometimes a little late with current events. BUT I just found out that Obama is a SMOKER!!!! I had no idea! I kind of look at him differently now. I read that he admits to quitting and falling off the wagon here and there. I have no doubt that the campaign trail is not the ideal serene environment one turns to when trying to rid oneself of an addiction that sends the body into the throws of anxiety-ridden withdrawals. BUT with the cost of healthcare such it is and with cigarette smoking being one of the leading contributors of heart and lung disease... I find it a bit contradictory on his part. Now don't misunderstand me. I understand the addiction and I am in no way implying that giving up nicotine is or will be easy when/if he decides to quit (and no offense to smokers out there who have attempted to quit, failed at quitting or never plan on quitting). I'm just saying that finding out he smokes kind of tarnished his glowing image I had of him. That's all. Mind you I wish him luck and hope he does decide to quit (as I wish for everyone). Great if he does but its job security for me if he doesn't ;)
Today (Wednesday) is Human Rights Day. As such there is a group out there encouraging everyone to "call in gay" to work today... not sick, gay. This is to show what an impact gays and lesbians make on the workforce and thus world at large. Uh.....Who knew?
How 'bout that randomness to perk up your day! Hope its a good one!
Today (Wednesday) is Human Rights Day. As such there is a group out there encouraging everyone to "call in gay" to work today... not sick, gay. This is to show what an impact gays and lesbians make on the workforce and thus world at large. Uh.....Who knew?
How 'bout that randomness to perk up your day! Hope its a good one!
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
3 a.m. Ramblings
I decided not to travel right now. I've been in turmoil about it for some time. My recruiter was having a hard time finding an assignment that would pay an hourly rate close to what I'm making now. Plus the only element of travel that appeals to me is the travel. I want, rather I NEED a vacation! So to travel at a smaller pay rate means working more and traveling less...NOT different from what I'm doing now. Where's the appeal of packing up, driving across the country to do the EXACT same thing? Doesn't exist folks!!! PLUS I was offered a better contract at my current hospital. So it looks like MGM is gonna be home for a little bit longer. :)
I forgot (in just one short year) how difficult it is to live with other people. My new roommates and I have had a few tiffs....ugh! Its childish really but there is nothing easy about being with someone nearly 24/7 adding in the special "issues" we all bring to the mix. It is STRESSFUL to say the least. We're hanging in there by whatever strings there are to hold on to...but we're hanging!
I am at a loss-yet again- for Christmas present ideas. I had VERY good intentions of starting early and being finished by now but with only 2 presents under my belt, I have failed miserably... and I have about 7 days to get it all done before I work again. The pressure's on!
There is this condition that exists in the ICU. Its called ICU psychosis. It comes on without much warning and is a nightmare for the patient and nurse not to mention the family if they happen to witness it. It happens when days and nights get mixed up and sleep patterns are severely altered. Add in anti-anxiety meds and/or pain meds and there ya go...a vicious cycle of confusion that usually ends with nurses close to a break down and a patient in some sort of restraint. Ya'll I had the CUTEST patient the other night who came down with a bad case of it and lost her EVER LOVIN' mind! She was soooo sweet about it though. Despite the inappropriateness of her behavior, it really did show the true content of her character. She was the sweetest little southern hostess. She was in her room (in the ICU) trying to serve cake to her husband and neighbors. She attempted several times to get out of bed to get the cake and even offered to make a fresh one (warm apple walnut, I believe it was). Mind you these people were not there, seeing as how it was 2 o'clock in the morning. AND one of her "dear sweet" friends, Mr. Furrow was having a terrible fit of itching and this sweet thing again, tried to get out of bed to rub him down with Witch Hazel. She just couldn't understand, for the life of her, why I wouldn't talk to these people or let her go tend to them. The cake was goin' to waste if someone didn't eat it and poor Mr. Furrow was havin' a terrible time and needed a rub down. Evidently, she saw a baby lying in water that she needed to save. (Imagine the guilt I felt in telling her she couldn't save that baby). Even in her bouts of crazy, this woman was doing her best, literally risking injury, to help her friends and loved ones. I want to be that kind of person. I want service to be second nature, so much so that even when I am 80 some-odd years old, laid up in the hospital with broken bones and have lost my mind, I'm still trying to serve cake and Witch Hazel. Today, though she was completely better. She finally got a good night's sleep and the psychosis went away. She'll be going home soon to actually serve cake for Christmas. (Hope Mr. Furrow is doing well)
Hope all is well...Christmas shopping and what-not. Happy Tuesday!
I forgot (in just one short year) how difficult it is to live with other people. My new roommates and I have had a few tiffs....ugh! Its childish really but there is nothing easy about being with someone nearly 24/7 adding in the special "issues" we all bring to the mix. It is STRESSFUL to say the least. We're hanging in there by whatever strings there are to hold on to...but we're hanging!
I am at a loss-yet again- for Christmas present ideas. I had VERY good intentions of starting early and being finished by now but with only 2 presents under my belt, I have failed miserably... and I have about 7 days to get it all done before I work again. The pressure's on!
There is this condition that exists in the ICU. Its called ICU psychosis. It comes on without much warning and is a nightmare for the patient and nurse not to mention the family if they happen to witness it. It happens when days and nights get mixed up and sleep patterns are severely altered. Add in anti-anxiety meds and/or pain meds and there ya go...a vicious cycle of confusion that usually ends with nurses close to a break down and a patient in some sort of restraint. Ya'll I had the CUTEST patient the other night who came down with a bad case of it and lost her EVER LOVIN' mind! She was soooo sweet about it though. Despite the inappropriateness of her behavior, it really did show the true content of her character. She was the sweetest little southern hostess. She was in her room (in the ICU) trying to serve cake to her husband and neighbors. She attempted several times to get out of bed to get the cake and even offered to make a fresh one (warm apple walnut, I believe it was). Mind you these people were not there, seeing as how it was 2 o'clock in the morning. AND one of her "dear sweet" friends, Mr. Furrow was having a terrible fit of itching and this sweet thing again, tried to get out of bed to rub him down with Witch Hazel. She just couldn't understand, for the life of her, why I wouldn't talk to these people or let her go tend to them. The cake was goin' to waste if someone didn't eat it and poor Mr. Furrow was havin' a terrible time and needed a rub down. Evidently, she saw a baby lying in water that she needed to save. (Imagine the guilt I felt in telling her she couldn't save that baby). Even in her bouts of crazy, this woman was doing her best, literally risking injury, to help her friends and loved ones. I want to be that kind of person. I want service to be second nature, so much so that even when I am 80 some-odd years old, laid up in the hospital with broken bones and have lost my mind, I'm still trying to serve cake and Witch Hazel. Today, though she was completely better. She finally got a good night's sleep and the psychosis went away. She'll be going home soon to actually serve cake for Christmas. (Hope Mr. Furrow is doing well)
Hope all is well...Christmas shopping and what-not. Happy Tuesday!
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
TA DA!!!!!!!!!!!!
As promised... My Christmas Tree...
Before 
After 
Doesn't she clean up nice???
and a couple of close-ups 
Merry Christmas!!!!!
Merry Christmas!!!!!
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Hmmmm...
I woke up this morning with the hymn Great Is Thy Faithfulness FULL blast in my head! I think someone is trying to tell me something...about trusting Him and how things are going to work out... can't be sure but... I haven't heard/sung that hymn in quite some time so...coincidence???? I think not!
I wanted to share this picture for sometime but it was stuck on my phone while my memory card was MIA. I took this picture on my phone the other morning at work so mind you it's not great quality plus pictures NEVER do justice to the real thing BUT... It is the view from my patient's room. The sunrise was so breathtaking that I actually woke the patient up to see it. I felt she NEEDED to see it (it in fact turnout to be her last one). Several of the nurses and I stood there at the window until the sun had completely risen... unable to tear ourselves away from what we were seeing. So here it is... just imagine the colors more vibrant than you have EVER seen!
*Update* My recruiter called me yesterday after my frantic email (I wasn't able to talk to him though). He left me a message assuring me that he had plenty of positions for me. I just have to call him and let him know where I am most interested. So yay!...and EEK!!! It scares me to think of traveling across country alone. But I think I'm up for the challenge....
I wanted to share this picture for sometime but it was stuck on my phone while my memory card was MIA. I took this picture on my phone the other morning at work so mind you it's not great quality plus pictures NEVER do justice to the real thing BUT... It is the view from my patient's room. The sunrise was so breathtaking that I actually woke the patient up to see it. I felt she NEEDED to see it (it in fact turnout to be her last one). Several of the nurses and I stood there at the window until the sun had completely risen... unable to tear ourselves away from what we were seeing. So here it is... just imagine the colors more vibrant than you have EVER seen!
*Update* My recruiter called me yesterday after my frantic email (I wasn't able to talk to him though). He left me a message assuring me that he had plenty of positions for me. I just have to call him and let him know where I am most interested. So yay!...and EEK!!! It scares me to think of traveling across country alone. But I think I'm up for the challenge....
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