Running at the speed of life

Testing, one, two, three

2011-10-31T22:22:00.003-04:00

It's been a while. I know.

Here's the news.

I got married. We went to Greece for our honeymoon. Then we moved to Boston.

It has all been amazing.

I am now getting back into running. Last month we ran a 10k in CT in just under an hour.

Last weekend we ran The Devil's Chase 6.66 miler in Salem, MA. We made it in 1 hour and 4 minutes.

Next up: begin training for my next half marathon: The Dallas Rock 'n' Roll next March. I'm hoping that The Best Man (now, The Best Husband) and I will actually be able to run it together- assuming I can keep up with his long legs.

In other news, I just got asked to be in the wedding party of a good friend from high school. I am so excited! I love a good excuse to talk about weddings and dresses and shoes!

The Old Dominion

2010-09-19T21:41:00.004-04:00

I'm back in the Old Dominion. We are 20 minutes from "town" which consists of 2 realtor's offices, 3 cafes, a library, a craft store, two jewelry stores and a really good Thai restaurant.

The drive into "town" is definitely worth it because we are living on the water. Again. This time, the "rivah."

I have a few shoddy pictures from my phone. More to come soon. I timid to use the Best Man's data as we are having to use a MiFi which only has a certain amount of data in the monthly fee.

The Best Man is trying his hand at fishing- with nets, pots and rods. Hopefully, he will catch something decent sometime this week that we can fry up for dinner!

I've only worked two days so far. Day one consisted of watching videos and reading policy manuals. Day 2 I got to ride along with another therapist. This week I have at least one more ride along and computer training. Nothing terribly exciting to report at this time. Besides the fact that it's beautiful here. Words can not describe the serenity I feel while sitting on the dock watching the water drift by.

Moving back to Ol' Virginy!

2010-09-08T21:46:00.009-04:00

Next stop: trying my hand on the home health circuit in Eastern VA!

As we made our tour of good ol' VA over the past week, we stopped for a day to look for housing. The first stop was an older home. Very quaint (ie small) with new paint and a new kitchen. It was just off the main road. This means it was 4 miles from town, which consists of a real estate office, a craft store, 3 cafes which serve as bars in the evening, a thai restaurant, and several store fronts that were for sale. We were invited to church and Sunday school in under 10 minutes.

We had time to kill before our second appointment, so we drove by to see if it was legit. There were 4 homes, each consisting of two town homes, a couple of them with a small apartment (maybe the size of a garage?) on either side. They looked nice from the outside and were about 1 mile from The Food Lion. When we got a tour later in the afternoon, we were unfortunately surprised to see that the inside does not match the outside. The townhome was very spacious, however extremely outdated and greasy. This one was quickly scratched off the list of possible choices.

Our third option canceled as they decided to rent to someone for a year, which is understandable. However, this left us with only two options.

The final appointment wasn't scheduled until the evening, so we drove around looking at other places to snoop.

We drove by the one apartment complex in town that offered a 6 month lease. It was similar on the outside to the townhome, however it was hard to tell how many apartments were in the large box like buildings. The grounds and homes were very run down and two of them were even boarded up. The cars in the parkling lot were all old and run down as well. We nixed this off our list.

The Best Man had spoken to an older gentleman on the phone about his "fishing cottage." We didn't have any pictures to go by, so the gentleman spoke with The BM on the phone for a good 17 minutes (to be exact). His "cottage" is 3 inches off the ground on cinder blocks. There was a flood back in the 80's. He didn't think it would flood anytime soon, but you know, wanted to mention it, "just in case." There was a community dock near by and you could see the water on both sides. The gentleman repeated several times that it was an older place and needed some upgrades, which lead us to nix this without even making an appointment to see it. However, we did drive by to snap a picture or two. . .

We drove down a sand road and passed other cottages. Most of them had out houses out back and even in one case a port-o-potty.

After seeing the home itself, we were pleased to see our intuition hadn't steered us wrong.

Now, up to this point our only option is the small home just outside of town. We had one other home to see, however it was more expensive and would be a longer commute for me. We drove by to get an idea of the location, length of commute and scope out the exterior prior to meeting with the home owner later in the day.

This home is located on 3 acres on the water. Complete with pool, hot tub, private dock, crab pots, and a guest house. We were interested in renting out the guest house. Our jaws dropped the minute we pulled into the drive. A majestic weeping willow greeted us as we entered, veiling part of the house. Behind the house green lawn could be seen, as well as the pool and the guest house. We giddily drove back to town discussing our options, weighing commute distance, internet availability, rent, water access and peace of mind.

In the end, before we even saw the inside of the guest house, we decided there was decent internet access for The Best Man, we'd do it.

We headed back to town to eat and kill some time before going back out to the property to meet with the owner. We went to a local cafe and got some sweets to snack on while we worked on our lap tops. The cafe had free wi fi, local art, and sweet treats! I foresee this being a hangout spot for us during our stent in the area.

Then, we went to dinner at the Thai restuarant downtown. It was amazing. We split our favourite dish, Panang curry, medium hot. It was fantastic. The BM, overheard one of the owners mention "a honeymoon in Thailand." When she came to refill our water, he asked her about going to Thailand for our honeymoon. She was thrilled to talk and mentioned a few "must see" cities. She spoke of how cheap it is to visit, the most expensive aspect is the plane ticket. She said "you must go for 2, 3 weeks, at least. No 5 days." Online, I'd seen that certain types of the year are more rainy than others, so I was surprised when she said we could go whenever. March and April are the best. She mentioned that the air prices are more expensive when "the kids get out of school." She suggested going after that time. Later, when we went to leave, she said she'd contact the Embassy for more details on traveling there. She'd let us know when we returned she said. She must know their food is amazing because of course we will be returning.

Finally, we drove back out to the property on the water. The pool house, if you will. I jokingly cursed the home owner, saying she picked the time of the appointment to coincide with sunset to seal the deal. When I knocked on the door I was startled to hear a dog barking and see the place was filled with furniture. I had been under the impression the studio was unfurnished. We were instructed to give ourself a tour of the big room. Although it was one large room there were separate living areas for the "kitcken," "bedroom," and "living room." The large bathroom had a walk in shower, titled with one inch stone tiles. Also located there was the washer and dryer, which would be staying there.

One of us tentatively asked about the furniture. "When would you need the place? Next, week? Well, I'll some how get my but in gear and get it out of your way. I have too much furniture to fit in my new place. I need to sell most of this." We suggested she could leave whatever she needed right where it was as we have no furniture. She seemed pleased with this idea. Next, we had a self guided tour of the grounds. The hot tub abuts the guest house, with the pool located in between the two homes. Past the big house, the private dock juts out into "the rivah." I was in too much shock to take pictures of this gorgeous place. Needless to say, we threw money at the home owner and pictures will be had when we move in next week! I should mention, that the home owner if good people and we are really looking forward to getting to know her.

The Many Bathing Suits which Make up My Summer

2010-08-26T15:11:00.005-04:00

Here is the reason why I have so many suits. I must change up the various tan lines!

Over the next three weeks during my stay at the beach, I will attempt to capture photos of myself wearing all of my bathing suits. This was inspired by the crazy cat lady former CI and her husband's visit here. They commented on the fact that I wore 3 different suits over their two days here. Like this was abnormal. Then, when they noted I was wearing yet another suit the next day in a picture online, I was inspired to wear all my suits and take pictures for evidence. Check back for updates! :)

Things I learned while working at a nursing home in Coastal Carolina

2010-08-25T15:47:00.003-04:00

Types of boats, including sail boats, "T" tops, schooners.
Ways to catch seafood: clamming and flounder gigging. I asked my patient how to know where to go clamming, the response: it's a guess. To gig a flounder, from what I can gather, you wade in the water and try to sneak up on a flounder and then "gig it" which apparently means to spear it.
Ways to prepare seafood:

Conch stew. You can apparently get the conch removed from the shell by boiling it or just sticking it in the freezer. Conch Stew, depending on where you eat it may have a variety of other seafood and veggies in it. None of the ladies I spoke to had made it themselves, they just new how to evacuate the conch from the shell.
Steamed Crabs: Place live crabs on a wire rack above a pan. Cover with one can of beer and lots of Old Bay, making sure the crabs don't pinch you or roam off the tray (this sounds to be the tricky part). Cover the pan, cook on the stove top. When you notice that the crabs are no longer clawing to get out, begin your kitchen timer for about 10 minutes or so. Eat up!

North Carolina

2010-08-25T15:29:00.003-04:00

Phew, that flew by! I'm already done with my four weeks of working here in North Carolina. I now have the next three weeks to attempt to relax while living here. Most of this time will be spent catching up on wedding planning (flowers, photos, music, all the big stuff) and scrapbooking. I'm finishing throwing together my high school scrap book. I'm almost done and then it's on to making a "VCU" book as well as a "Greenville" book before making a vacation book and then finally a "traveling PT" book. I also have scarves to finish and earrings to make. Lots and lots of busy work.

My crazy cat lady former CI and her husband came to visit this past weekend. We had some tasty food and some relaxing times on the beach, as well as good conversation. Can't beat that! Later this week, some old friends will be coming for a visit, then early next week we are back to VA for an doctors appointment and then family time in Richmond and Arlington prior to heading to MD for the first VT football game of the season on Labor Day. Then, its back down here for a few days until more visitors arrive. Then we will be packing everything up and heading back to VA to live.

Don't ask me where. Don't ask me how long. I have no clue. Details to follow as they are made known to me. At this point I'm busy with phone interviews and dreaming up honeymoon plans! :)

Laughing Gas

2010-07-23T00:17:00.002-04:00

I don't suggest having the tv on The Price is Right during your first encounter with laughing gas when you are already extremely nervous. The music and sound effects in combination with the tipsy feeling of the laughing gas is similar to that scene in Willy Wonka with the boat ride and the tunnel starts swirling around and around and around. Creeepy!

Take this job and shove it! I ain't workin here no more!

2010-07-21T22:30:00.004-04:00

My two year contract for my first job out of school is up next Wednesday. I managed to weasel my way into having my last week of work off with PTO and flex days. I'm DONE!

I'm tired of not getting respect. That's what it all comes down to. I didn't go to school for 7 years to get two degrees and $80,000 (before interest) of loans to be disrespected. I think the worst part of it all is being told things like "you are too compassionate."

Are you kidding?

This is health care for crying out loud. What would I be doing here if it weren't for my compassion? I sure am not in it for the money.

My older co-workers tell me "it's like this every where."

If that's the case I will change my job every year until I find people that do not accept the unacceptable.

What it comes down to is this: If you allow people to walk all over you they will time and time again. I refuse to be a doormat.

I will continue to stand up for my patients and what is right. That's the kind of clinician I am.

In closing, I'd like to sing another song:

Kiss. Kiss this. And I don't mean on my rosy red lips!

Aaaand, on that note, I'll be having dental surgery tomorrow and then moving to the beach on Sunday! Whoop whooop!

Life

2010-07-14T16:48:00.003-04:00

Life has caught up with me again. I'm running full speed, trying to get it all done and enjoy it at the same time. I have 7 more work days left, before having dental surgery, packing up and driving (hopefully not too drugged up) to NC.

I will begin my traveling career with an assignment in Morehead City, NC, on the coooassst!. We will be living in Emerald Isle, which is also on the coast, a short drive away.

I've been busy trying to purge all the material stuff I don't need. I can't count how many trips to Goodwill the BM and I have made! There is still too much stuff left! We are hoping to sell some furniture, the washer and dryer, etc. I hope to get some more things packed over the next few days so come surgery time my car will be all packed up! I've also got lots of jewelry making to do. Several nurses on the floor are asking for earrings before I leave. Also, I've had a request on my site today for 5 pairs of bridesmaids earrings- from someone I don't know (this is a first!).

I must get cracking!

Hopefully, I'll be chill enough and not running around crazy when I get to the beach that I will be able to update more. But, its also likely I'll be busy playing in the sun and sand!

Uno Ano Mas

2010-05-14T00:15:00.001-04:00

I'm getting married to The Best Man a year from today!!!!! :) :) :)

Honky Tonkin

2010-05-09T21:57:00.002-04:00

The girls and I ventured to Nashville for a horse race this weekend. Any excuse to get dressed up, right?

Afterwards we went honky tonkin'. I participated in a ho down with some boys in basketball jerseys. Despite falling due to my high heels they were nice enough to dub me the winner.

However, now I need to get my knee checked out because I have a killer bruise and may have "pulled a hammy." Ouch!

2010-04-29T19:18:00.001-04:00

Mmm, spin dip, my long lost friend.

Now I remember why I don't keep this stuff in the house!

Sometimes you get in stupid fights

2010-04-26T21:32:00.004-04:00

and other times you accidentally, on purpose think it's cute to spit gum in someone else's mouth (only to make it easier to kiss of course) and then get mad when they spit it back in your ear (only to get even of course).

Karma is worse on the receiving end and apologies are worse on the giving end.

I am sorry.

Next time I'll ask to spit it in your hand when I'm finished chewing my gum.

Things not to do today

2010-04-17T00:08:00.003-04:00

Top 5, in order of least importance to most:

5. Do not make out in broad daylight in the parking lot of your apartment if you are in your early to mid 30's.
4. Do not let brain mets be an excuse for your relative or loved one to behave atrociously to health care workers. DO apologize on their behalf.
3. Do not spend all your time indoors. Make sure to spend a little time outside. Collect some freckles.
2. Do not forget to reach out to those around you. You will be surprised at how one kind thought or action turns into another.
1. Do not forget to send kind words, thoughts, and/or prayers to The Hokie Nation.

P.P.S.

2010-04-16T01:06:00.002-04:00

In other news, I have now missed not one, but two weeks of Private Practice to pursue the pleasures of the real word.

However, I must say, the ethical dilemmas of Private Practice are real. The End.

2010-04-16T00:12:00.002-04:00

I am lame. I know. I never write anymore. My excuse is that I have a life outside of this box we all call "computer." However, this is not the case. The Best Man sits for hours on end each evening at his box and I at mine. I really could write. I'm lazy.

So that's it. I'm lazy. And lame.

The Best Man's Brother's Best and Only Girl wrote this post tonight which prompted me to write.

I have much to say regarding her post, however I thought I best save that for another day.

However, I will say I do believe Erikson would say this is a case of Identity versus Role Confusion. Obviously, The Best Man's Brother's Best and Only Girl has her identity creatively constructed via any art medium she chooses, however is frustrated with those losers who are struggling over lower life stages such as industry versus inferiority.

Okay, so I was a psych major in undergrad, what's it to you. Oh yeah, and I forgot I wasn't going to talk about that.

What I am going to talk about (and yes, I do realize that I should never begin any sort of writing with any kind of potential with any stating "what I'm going to talk about is...", but I just did, so oh well) is wedding planning.

We now have an officiant and catering quotes. And (heaven forbid, but this is really the best thing of all) most importantly A CAKE! So, I've been preaching to all my SC friends down yonder how great my favourite local grocery store cake is for the past 1.5 years. They have their own variety of grocery store cake which they rant about. What is the best part of a cake, I ask you? THE ICING. I mean obviously, the icing makes the cake. The icing down here is horrendous. Terrible, I tell you. These people make this their wedding cake? Really? With nasty icing like that?

Oh, I digress. So, anyway, I had pretty much signed the deal in my head and heart that I was going to get my cake from the local grocer. On a whim, The Best Man and I went to local pastry shop and did a cake tasting before we went to the grocer for our official must be made in pen and ink appointment. Turns out not only was the local pastry shop cheaper, but the almond flavor (the only flavor of any importance in my opinion) was much more palatable.

So, needless to say, we have officially booked THE CAKE. And an officiant. And hopefully we can soon say we've booked some food and some hotel rooms for ourselves and guests, however I do hope these last two will lessen their bills before we commit.

Well, that is all. Well, that and bekind to your fellow artist, for you never know whom will be painting a life like picture of you.

P.s. Now I want to paint. Or at least make pretty jewelry. . . mmm wedding jewels...

Charlotte, NC

2010-03-21T22:01:00.003-04:00

They say Greenville, SC is "close to everything and next to nothing." The Best Man and I have been seeing a lot of the "nothing," so we ventured up to a close by "everything" which happened to be Charlotte, NC.

We saw a Ben Folds concert on Friday night, which was a perfect way to start off our laid back weekend. Hysterical! Chatroulette is the way concerts are heading. At least I hope so.

The two of us spent the rest of the weekend wandering around, eating, drinking, seeing. Normally, I feel the need to plan every minute of time in a new city. Besides the concert, the only other plan we had was getting margaritas at Cabo Fish Taco. The rest of the time we poked into art galleries, boutiques and bars.

It was so nice to have a slow pace without plans. I may have to change the way I vacation! Perfect trip. Now, unfortunately, back to reality!

A Serious Discussion

2010-02-24T21:57:00.003-05:00

As I was driving home from work today I realized I needed to have a serious discussion with The Best Man. I was bringing home two boxes of Girl Scout cookies- the best ever- Thin Mints and Tagalongs!-and knowing our love of sweets knew this could pose a problem.

Ice cream is his go to sweet, however he will quickly gooble up candies, chocolates (that he's bought for me), and cookies. I love cakes and cookies and icecream all equally. I show no sweet preference over another, you know unless one has a lot more chocolate than the other, then I'm distracted enough to show favouritism.

So, I did what any smart girl would do when backed into a corner. I hid the box of Tagalongs.

I walked up to the apartment thinking if there was any way to compromise. I mean, come on, these are GIRL SCOUT COOKIES. This is serious stuff here. So, out of the goodness of my heart I decide we can each have one sleeve from each box (Tagalongs will stay hidden until Thin Mints are demonlished).

I am going to marry this guy, so I had to take drastic measures and share.

Then I came inside with a serious face asking to sit down and talk.

I'm sure The Best Man thought another one of my patients had passed away (we've sadly not been saving many lives here these days it seems). Then I asked what his favourite Girl Scout cookies where.

"Somoas." He has bought two boxes that have yet to arrive.

Coconut!? So, no bargaining here. He'd get his two boxes and I'd have to share mine or have mine demolished while I was at work saving lives and all that jazz.

I then revealed my box of thin mints and was very thankful to find that he doesn't care for them much.

SCORE!

They are safe!

"What about tagalongs?"

"Eh."

DOUBLE SCORE!

Looks like all the anxiety was for nothing. I just hope he realizes what a sacrafice I was willing to make. I mean, really, SHARING Girl Scout cookies. That's big time.

Ps. Tagalongs are now called Peanut Butter Patties, but that's a whole 'nother story.

This Weekend

2010-02-13T15:01:00.005-05:00

I know the rest of you don't want to hear that four letter "s" word again anytime soon. No, not that one, the one that ends in a "w."

We had our first s**w fall down here last night and the town was in a frenzy trying to prepare for the 3 to 4 inches we got. I was so excited because we've only had one weekend of ice. No real s**w until yesterday! Wahoo! Well, the sun is brightly shining today, so most of it is already gone. Sadly, I did not get to play in it. But nevertheless, it was still exciting.

Today is The Southern Belle's birthday. She is one of my closest friends at work. She keeps me sane and she lets me rant and rave to my hearts content. The Southern Belle is a SC native. She is classy and smart. And today is her birthday! We are going to celebrate by dinner at a nice restaurant prior to going to her favourite Irish pub. We will see where the night takes us from there.

Tomorrow the two of us are going to see "Valentine's Day." Cheesy? Yes. Necessary? Another yes.

Here's to a fun girls weekend! It's always nice to have good girl friends around when you need them!

Bittersweet silence

2010-02-05T23:15:00.003-05:00

The past two days I've gotten to work in the units. As in intensive care and cardiac care. Read: really sick people. In these two days, I've felt more useful treating those 3 patients than I have in a long, long time.

I've decided I like treating non verbal patients. I make them laugh. Really, it's a stitch. They can't tell me I'm being corny, silly or dumb, so I talk and talk. There really is no stopping me when I get going. Then they laugh and I like to pretend it's because they think I'm funny. In reality, it's just because it takes too much effort to mouth "you're ridiculous."

The best is when I'm co-treating with Shorty, a COTA, and we banter back and forth until we make the patient smile. Now, that's some funny stuff. The best is when I make fun of how short she is. That gets 'em every time.

Bring on the lines, leads, and vents! It's on, I'm bringing back purpose to my job and knocking out debility one treatment (and smile) at a time!

In other news, I'm not drinking soda. I normally don't drink a lot of the stuff anyway, but sometimes I get on a roll and then crave the sticky, sweet stuff. I haven't had a Coke or another soda at all this month. All 5 days of it. Pretty good, huh? Now, the hard part is going to be not having a rum and coke the next time I go out. I don't like beer...so I guess I'll be drinking a lot o' wine!

Hindsight

2010-01-26T21:21:00.004-05:00

Recently I've been fretting about a self diagnosed brain tumor that has been affecting my vision. It is located somewhere in the back of my head near the optic radiations. It first affected my left eye, then vanished before reappearing (or should I say disappearing because of my lack of vision?) in my right eye. Transient vision changes that occur in one eye then reappear in another eye are not normally related to a tumor. You know, unless the tumor is shrinking in one direction as it grows in another.

So basically, I have a self diagnosed traveling brain tumor that is making its way from the left side of my head to the right.

Or so I thought.

When I was finally able to get myself an eye appointment, the optometrist asked questions like "why can't you see?" (to which I wanted to respond "aren't you supposed to answer that?") and made comments such as, "well, you could read that a minute ago" when I couldn't read even the big E on the top of the eye chart.

After two appointments in as many weeks, my old prescription was changed, then later rewritten to resemble the original prescription. The original prescription which caused me to come in for the first place because I couldn't see.

So at this point, I had changed my working diagnosis from a traveling brain tumor to a conversion disorder. Clearly, there was nothing wrong with my eyes or the optometrist would not have asked me why I couldn't see. Without any anatomical basis to my blurry vision, the only remaining answer is a conversion disorder.

I made an appointment a month away with an ophthalmologist, ie a real MD. I spent the next month hoping it was legal for me to be on the road and ignoring people at work because I couldn't see them down the hallway. All the while, I was trying to come to terms with the fact that I obviously had a conversion disorder.

When it was finally time for my appointment, the technician made me feel like a fraud when she questioned what I could and couldn't see. She wasn't able to correct my vision with lenses. Then the real MD came in and asked "has anyone ever mentioned an astigmatism?"

He then showed me a picture of the peaks and valleys of the surface of my right eye. The cornea is supposed to be round like a basketball. An astigmatism means the cornea cones out like a football. This can be corrected with glasses and soft contacts. However, my eye only cones out at the bottom and is rounded at the top. This is called an irregular astigmatism. It can only be corrected with hard contacts. I was told the cause could be due to a) illfitting contacts, b) a corneal deformity, or c) a and b.

I'm shooting for a) as this would explain why my vision was first blurry in my left eye and now my right.

Today I had my fitting for my contacts. They hurt. I squinted, cried, blinked and got asked what the heck was wrong with me by nurses and even a patient. However, I was able to wear them for 4 hours as I was asked.

I am shooting for 6 hours tomorrow. I doubt I will be able to drive in these things for a while as it is hard to look for side to side. Thus, unfortunately, I will still be driving with my useless glasses. Wish me luck!

2010-01-18T21:28:00.000-05:00

One of the great things about being engaged, besides tricking The Best Man into proposing and getting a gorgeous ring, is that I pretend I don't have to shave my legs as frequently.

One of the bad things about being engaged is getting used to not shaving as frequently and going to the gym wearing shorts.

Big.

2010-01-14T23:57:00.002-05:00

The Best Man: "This little girl has grown up to be a big girl."
K: "You don't say 'girl' and 'big' in the same sentence."
The Best Man: "I'm sorry...This little girl has grown up to be a big woman."

2010-01-14T21:45:00.004-05:00

K:"So I was helping this guy get cleaned up from the bathroom and-"
The Best Man: "Wait, you were helping him? You mean you walked him to the bathroom?"
K:"Well, I helped him to the commode and then helped him get cleaned up."
The Best Man: "Wait, all this time when you've said you helped someone to the bathroom, you've been cleaning them up?"
K:"Well, not all the time, sometime they just need help getting there. Anyway-"
The Best Man: "Wait! So you see butts every day?"
K:"Yes, and they are old and wrinkly. Are you jealous?"

2009-11-03T19:42:00.002-05:00

I'm a slacker of a blogger. I know that. However, I do feel entitled to get riled up on behalf of my fellow bloggers when old people start questioning blogs. Actually, according to my co-workers I feel entiled to get fiesty over anything. I like to call it caring about my patients. But, I digress.

Okay, so I do realize "old people" is a generalization that may not be appropriate. Plenty of people prior to the MTV generation are now blogging. Heck, I'm sure they blog more frequently, eloquently and about more important things than I do (but, hey, who doesn't). What I'm trying to say is, I'm not calling you old.

I joined the local YMCA a few months ago and immediately noticed signs announcing the start of a book club. The first pick, Julie and Julia by Julie Powell, I had just started and was only a couple chapters deep. This was a sign. Kismet if you will.

Now, I've never participated in a book club, but I do love to keep my nose in a book or two or five. Growing up I didn't speak unless spoken to, and generally thought of the characters in my books as dear friends. Unfortunately, I don't find much time for reading these days. A book club was the perfect opportunity to make time.

If you're not familiar with this book here's the quick and dirty run down. An almost 30 year old secretary decides to cook all 500+ recipes in a Julia Child cookbook in 365 days. One year. The book follows her trials and tribulations as she cooks her way through the cookbook, blogging all the way. Her blog was so widely read, she went from blogger to writer due to the popularity of it.

Here's where my angst comes in to play.

I don't like talking in front of people. Not one bit. And I've never participated in book club prior to this. So, of course, you know the first question comes at me- what was your favourite part about the book?

Okay, so now this book, it was about an unfufilled woman cooking, blogging, cussing and drinking. Nothing really stuck out as a favourite part. So I state I liked the parts where the actual blog excerpt was in the book and what the readers (of her blog) had to say. Everyone looks at me like I'm nuts.

Later on during the discussion everyone rants about blogs and how they don't get it. Why are all these people who don't even know her reading this thing for a year?

I tried to explain the culture related to blogging and the internet in general, however every time I opened my shy little mouth someone else would talk over me. It was quiet unnerving for my first book club meeting. Especially, when I don't like talking.

The book for next month, The Best Christmas Pagent Ever, will hopefully bring less banter and more discussion.

"It's my birthday!!!"

2009-09-30T21:46:00.003-04:00

As I stood, chilled, in the parking lot, waiting for a friend to finish a phone call before we entered a fantastic Indian restaurant, the following scene unfolded before me:

A happy couple exits a bar. Dangerously close to one another (I couldn't help steal and change those lines as they were perhaps written for a situation similar to this). They stumble to their car, then abruptly change their course. Run to "Lucy's Love Shop."

The girl yanks on the door to find it locked. The girl tugs on the handle again before her partner's hip juts out to gently shove her out of the way. He gives the door a try.

"Nooo!" they scream in unison as the shop keeper glares as she turns out the lights and points to the closed sign.

"Come on! We'll be quick! We know what we want!"

"It's my biiiirthdaaaay! Coooome ooon!"

After what had to be several minutes of the two of them literally jumping up and down and shaking their fists and yelling, the shop keeper flips on the lights and lets the pair in.

At this point I couldn't help but hear that horrible "birthday sex" song in my head. 'Nuf said!

Welcome to Ghetto-fab G-vegas, baby!

Hot diggity!

2009-09-21T22:10:00.004-04:00

This summer I made the switch from beef hotdogs to turkey dogs. The Best Man's favourite beef hotdog brand is Nathan's. All beef dogs, especially the "jumbo" variety can run close to 200 calories. The turkey dogs I've grown to eat over the past few months are closer to 45 calories per dog. I figured if I could make the switch from beef to turkey- how hard could it be to switch to veggie?

Very hard indeed. Calories aside (80 per dog, almost twice my turkey dogs), these dogs are a no go. Besides looking strange (more orange than the pink of a beef dog and the white of a turkey dog), these veggie dogs did not taste...well, like meat. I tried them with melted cheddar and american on top, before dipping them in a swirl of ketchup and dijon mustard. Then, I tried eating them with a mouthful of beans. These were not just any beans. The only beans I buy are Bush's. You know, the kind with the maple syrup and bacon? Oh yeah, nothing but The Best. Taking a bite of these babies along with a bit of the veggie dog seemed to help. I can only guess this had something to do with the taste of bacon. Needless to say, once I've eaten the rest of the package, I'll be going back to my trusty turkey dogs.

For those of you whom can't forgo your beef in order to partake of the wonders of turkey, you are certainly missing out. Ground turkey makes a great subtitute for beef in tacos and burgers. Turkey bacon is much less greasy and fatty than the real bacon. I really enjoy this when I'm craving bacon and actually like it much more (so does my stomach and arteries!). Veggie bacon can also work in a pinch, but is not as good as turkey bacon, however much better than a turkey dog. Give it a try!

2009-09-16T23:57:00.002-04:00

The Best Man and I are heading to Nashville, TN tomorrow after work. We will be spending a long weekend exploring "Music City." This is the first time we have gone somewhere that The Best Man has NOT been and I HAVE! I went there for a conference last year and got to do all the "country" touristy stuff. So we will be bypassing that this time and seeing more of the city! We bought "attraction pass" which will get us into 4 attractions. So far, we have decided on doing one of the amphibious "duck tours" which will be on both land and water and a river cruise. The weather may not be on our side, so I'm not sure what else we will see with the pass.

We will also be going to The Bluebird Cafe. This is a listening room where songwriters perform in a quiet setting. At the end of the show a "surprise guest" will appear. This is usually an artist (not a writer). For me, this will be the highlight of the tour!

I'll be posting pictures sometime next week!

Hello, World! I'm an artist!

2009-09-15T23:15:00.009-04:00

Please keep in mind, this is a work in progress.

I've recently become a member of www.etsy.com and will be making jewelry to sell on my site there. Please check out www.krissymiss.com for more information. Expect to see new additions over the next few weeks and months!

Shop-a-holic and Coca-Cola Icee

2009-09-14T12:37:00.004-04:00

As if I didn't have enough trouble staying clear of Target (where I can easily blow $75 each time I go...even if it's on two consecutive days)- I've now discovered Target has a Coca-Cola Icee.

This lovely state of South Carolina does not have 711's. This means no Slurpee's. Thus, this Coke Icee is the next best thing.

I did discover a little known shop-a-holic saving secret. If you have as much trouble sticking to your shopping list as I do, try this little trick: Buy your favourite iced drink at your first stop and leave it in the car. This will ensure that you only have time to pop in and out of the shops and stick to your shopping list- otherwise, your drink melts in the car!

Now, I have another dilemma. I've recently cut out drinking sodas. Why do I think it's okay to drink a Coke Icee? Is that not a frozen soda?

Ps. We are going to Nashville, TN this weekend! Wahoo!

Run!

2009-09-13T17:18:00.003-04:00

Today I was able to run a whole two miles without foot pain. This may not seem like much, however, I am very pleased!

MapMyRun.com | View 2 Mile Loop From The Y in Greenville, South Carolina

Posted using ShareThis

PG 13 Blog Post Here: The Stories My Patients Tell Me

2009-08-04T21:06:00.003-04:00

"I was a stripper!"
"No really, what did you do?"
"Really. I was a stripper."
"Come on, be serious."
"In Baltimore, Maryland. Do you want to hear what my name was? Berry Vanilla. That's why my husband brought me the vanilla plant today. As a joke. He knows all about it, you see. My specialty was lactating. I would spray the men. I figured if they were dumb enough to pay, I may as well do it."

This was in the middle of the hallway in front of a patients open door whom was visiting with family. Needless to say, when I walked by 10 minutes later the door was closed.

Welcome to acute care, ladies and gentlemen!

I almost volunteered The Best Man to fight a drunk high schooler...opps!

2009-07-21T21:04:00.002-04:00

The Best Man and I had a picnic dinner at the park. We were laying on the river bank after eating with the river at our feet and the parking garage several yards behind us. Suddenly, something wet landed between us.

A half full Budweizer beer can.

The Best Man inspected and noted several beer cans by the parking garage. I packed up our stuff, put in the car and stormed up the incline of the deck looking for the kids who threw the can at me.

What was I thinking?

"How dare they?" That's what I was thinking.

What was The Best Man thinking? "I hope we don't get killed."

We have since spoken and he has been instructed to ground me and calm me down the next time.

I ended up confronting the 4 or 5 high schoolers. One of them was upset because I called him an idiot because he had fallen (or been pushed as he claimed) off the parking deck through a tree and onto the ground an hour earlier. This kid hand long scraggly blonde surfer boy hair and was 1/2 my size. He looked at The Best Man behind me and said "Is that your boy? He's going to have to fight me."

Then he began to take off his shirt.

Why is it that people who are trash talking always take off their shirts to fight? I mean, what's that going to do?

Needless to say, The Best Man has a lot cooler head on his shoulders than I do and simply stated we were not going to fight anyone and were just looking for whom ever threw a beer can at us.

Although there was an empty can at their feet, the same variety of what I was now wearing, they claimed some other kids did it.

And with that we stormed up the flight of stairs to the top level...where I cooled off and made The Best Man call the non emergency police number.

I hope those kids at the very least got busted for loitering and smoking and drinking under age. Take that little twerps!

Ps. Next time, The Best Man, will forcefully restrain me if need be and then we will stay put and call the non emergency police number.

7/11

2009-07-11T17:16:00.004-04:00

Today, 7/11, is free Slurpee day at 7-eleven. Last year on this date I drove down here, stopping to get a slurpee before I left, with a car load of clothes and PT books. Unfortunately, this state does not do convenience stores justice. At least this part of the state doesn't. No 7-eleven's around here. All the convenience stores are the small, shady ones connected with cheap gas stations. You know, the kind where you would never ever dare to use the restroom even if you had the runs because you know you'll easily get a communicable disease just from touching the door knob? So, that means no free Slurpee's for me today. Everyone down here just tells me to get an Icee. Seriously? There is no comparison to a Slurpee. So, someone out there, please have a cold one on me. A Slurpee that is. Cola or Mt dew are the best.

More dental work.

2009-07-07T21:19:00.002-04:00

Began work on the much needed crown numero dos today! They drilled and drilled while I slobbered and gagged. Then they did impressions and slapped a temporary crown on. In 2-3 weeks I will get a call when the crown has been made, then I get to go back and have them cement that puppy on! All I have left (to my knowledge anyway) is an implant to fill the gapping hole in my mouth! Then, the next plan is to see if I can con someone into whitening my teeth at a decent price! Wish me luck!

2009-06-19T06:45:00.003-04:00

I ran two miles at PT yesterday. This is kinda a big deal because that's half of what I was up to before I wrecked my foot with too much running. Also, I'm not hurting like I was after the first time I increased my mileage up to a whooping 1.5 miles. I had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday. The ortho doc pretty much discharged me- I can go back on an as needed basis. I'm going to try running outside this weekend, which will be the first time off of the treadmill. I'm stoked that I can finally run outside again...after almost 1/2 a year! Wish me luck!

Busy.

2009-06-14T01:27:00.004-04:00

In the past month and a half:
- The Best Man moved down to SC.
-An OT Student...excuse me, Student OT moved in with me for the summer.
-Two couples got married: one in Greenville, SC and one in NoVA.
-I got "put in time out" at work as I like to call it and am now on the cancer floor instead of the Ortho floor.
-I went to the beach for a long weekend over Memorial Day and got a bad sun burn. Believe it or not, I've just started peeling in the past week or two.
-I've been going to PT and recently started running on the treadmill with increased mentation to do so.
-Currently in VA for my Granny's 88th birthday! Go, Granny! :D
-I've started making earrings and have become quite good at it.
-Sam and I have learned to make sushi. Everyone is mad impressed. You should be too.
-I've gotten hooked on the Twilight series.

Next up:
-Learning to swing dance.
-Learning to shag.
-Astronomy lessons.
-Learning to live in the same town as the Best Man and find time to update my blog. . .
-Beach trip for a week in Obx at the end of the month.
-Summer trips:

hiking
Charleston/Savannah
"staycation" in Greenville doing nothing at all.

-4 more weddings to attend this year, in 3 states:

Boone, NC
NoVa x2
San Antonio, TX

You know you need to update your blog when...

2009-06-14T01:26:00.001-04:00

Your boyfriend takes you off is 'blog roll' because you don't post enough. . .

Lame.

Walk this waaaay

2009-04-20T20:30:00.003-04:00

Last March, my nephews Michael and Matthew were born 3 months early. Their weight totaled just over 3 pounds. They fought for their lives for weeks in the NICU before little Michael passed away on April 1st. Now, over a year later, little Matty is crawling and starting to pull up on furniture. He is just now in the past couple of months able to go out in crowds due to his weakened immune system. With every encouraging word from his doctors and therapists we have hope that he will keep catching up with his peers.

My sister-in-law is very involved with The March of Dimes. She is raising money to walk this year. I am unable to go home for the walk in May, but would like to do my part here in Greenville.

Please donate and help prevent prematurity. Every dollar helps!

PS: Debate of the week: walk 6 miles in my cast or just show up and give them my donations....? Hmmm?

The Big Purple Monster

2009-04-14T22:09:00.003-04:00

The Big Purple Monster (named by The Best Man) is to immobilize my foot for the next 3 weeks. . .

Here are just a couple of things that are difficult for me to do without movement of my foot (specifically, I'm missing dorsiflexion the most):
1. walking
2. stair climbing
3. showering
4. squatting, bending down or doing anything near or on the floor
5. speaking of 4...getting off the floor
6. hoovering over a public toilet

Wish me luck...I'm already going insane and it's only been 2 days!

Mega Update

2009-03-30T20:53:00.005-04:00

Birthdays:
I went home this past weekend for my kid brothers birthday. Ok, so he's not a kid and I can't call him "my little brother" either. He's over 6 feet tall and he just turned 20. We went to Fridays for lunch on Saturday, then had a surprise party on Sunday afternoon. The highlight of my weekend was getting to see 1 of my 2 nephews. He will be 3 next week. 2009 is the year of the "why?"s. I can't tell you how many times he would follow up the answer to a question with another "why?" I do love his blue, blue eyes. Next Monday is my mom's 50th... then the following weekend is my sisters 25th. Only milestone birthdays this year, please. More to come on the birthdays over the next two weeks. . . Speaking of...mine is in just over a month! Holla back!

Teeth:
My real crown has been made and is hanging out at the dentist's office until Wednesday when I got to get it glued on. Most likely they will have to drill off the fake temp after having to use super-de-duper glue after it fell off initially. Not looking forward to that...but at least I can eat on that side of my mouth again. Next up, crown number two.

Foot:
I've been taking anti-inflammatories and not running since the last week of January. No relief. Yeah, sure it's better with walking at work. However, I remain unable to do a real weight bearing workout. Summer is coming up people, this is a big deal! I went back to the doc. Talk of instability. Really? Did I mention I had a 3rd degree sprain in high school? Oh wait, I put that on my intake form. MRI is scheduled for tomorrow. Current discussion of a walking cast x 1 month and/or surgery to rough up the joint space. The idea of this is to cause scar tissue to form and hold that joint tighter. Doesn't sound very thrilling or even promising to me. What do you think, TK? Personally, I'm down for a manipulation, taping, exercises, an orthotic, anything but surgery.

Boy:
The Best Man moves down here 1 month from today!!! All smiles here! (well, except that I'll have to give back some of his furniture!) :D

Books:
The current stack of books I'm trying to make my way through includes but is not limited to the following:

An Imperfect God: George Washington, his slaves, and the creation of America- Henry Weincek. 1/5 of the way through this book.
Last Chance Saloon- Marian Keyes. Have previous read Watermelon which was fantastic...you know, I love chic lit.
The Secret Code of Success- Noah St. John. I some how ended up with this book after purchasing several others. Have yet to crack it.
The Secret Foundation of America- Nicholas Hagger. I have a secret crush on the founding fathers of America.
Killer Cocktail- Sheryl J. Anderson. Apparently this is a sequel. Must make time to get my hands on the first book. Another chic lit novel.
Beyond Codependency- Melody Beattie- Self-helpish book. Apparently this author knows her stuff.
Twilight- Stephenie Meyer. KO made me watch the movie this weekend. Despite missing the first half because the two boys present were teasing us, I loved it. Don't you dare judge me. You people have worse obsessions than this.

Weddings:
So far, and we're barely into spring here, people, I have 5 weddings potentially to attend this year.
2 in VA
1 in NC
1 in SC
1 in TX
I hope to hear of a few engagements this year to spice of the wedding scene for next year. Any takers? Hmm?

That's a wrap people. Hope you enjoyed it!

The things they say

2009-03-24T18:41:00.003-04:00

As I'm standing up with a patient the first time, her gown flaps in the breeze showing her backside while I'm trying to tie it shut.

"I'm shining you. You can look or not look, its your choice."

I pick not.

Emergent Care Needed

2009-03-12T19:20:00.001-04:00

Please read prior post and the comment before reading further. . .

My temp crown fell out this afternoon.

In public.

While eating a piece of cheese.

NOT impressed!

Toothless grin

2009-03-11T22:22:00.003-04:00

Today, I continued the beautification of my mouth.

After getting several cavaties filled over the past few months, I've moved on to crowns.

Yes, that's plural.

I started numero uno today.

The first step of this process is drilling in my mouth while I'm not completely numb, hacking away at my rotten tooth and cementing plastic on top for the next few weeks while someone gets paid way too little to carve a new tooth for me.

I know they don't get paid a lot because a friend of mine back home does it. It sounds like a spectacular amount of money per tooth until you break down the amount of hours it takes to cast molds and carve out a single, little tooth.

Now, let's just hope this lil piece of plastic stays on until the real deal is made.

Oh, and p.s...did I mention a certain Best Man may be moving down here in the next few months? Might have slipped my mind. . .

:D

Apartment Pictures

2009-02-28T21:03:00.010-05:00

I know, I know. I've been a slacker. I've been busy. Really, I have. The good thing is that I've been socializing more with people than with the computer. That's a good excuse for not writing, isn't it? I've had a 3rd year PT student staying with me for the past several weeks. We get along really well and I've enjoyed my first roommate ever. She's also good at decorating and has been helping me out. . . Plus, I finally got motivated to buy some furniture. So, without further ado here is the updated apartment:

We went live with the new computer documentation system this week. . . It has been crazy. Needless to say I've been much less productive. We document by exception. Which means if nothing is wrong then you don't write anything. Let's say you have full strength and intact sensation in all extremities. Nothing is documented as its within normal limits. At the end of the day I look at what I wrote and feel like it doesn't represent anything I did with the patient. All in all, it will work out well in the end, its just a matter of getting used to the system...and other disciplines actually documenting when and where they should so I can do MY job correctly.

Well, that's all of an update I can handle for now. I hope you enjoyed the pics, TK! :)

I think patients say more interesing things than kids. . .

2009-02-24T20:30:00.002-05:00

Patient: "The last time I was in the hospital I was so sick they almost signed me up for hostages."

Stress

2009-02-02T19:57:00.002-05:00

I think I have a stress fracture of the base of my 5th metatarsal.

See the last blog for background on my idiocy.

My Stride

2009-01-27T17:56:00.003-05:00

I am in the process of finding my stride, or my running mojo if you will. I've started taking my running clothes to work with me every day so I have no excuse not to run as soon as I get off work. This has worked 9 out of 10 times.

I am obsessed with a park that is half way between work and home. I have no excuse to keep driving when I have my running shoes on and the pavement is calling my name. There are numerous trails to keep me from getting bored. I can run by a jet (I'll let The Best Man tell you what kind it is, I'm not sure), waterfalls, and horses depending on which turn I take. Best of all, I feel safe. I'm not running on the road or in an unsafe area. I've been working out 6 days a week all month and running 4 or 5 of those days. I'm trying to get in a base of 12-15 miles a week before I start training for the next race (TBD?).

Not only has the frequency of my running and my mileage increased, but so has my stride. I was running anywhere between 10 to 11 minute/miles (closer to 9 on the treadmill because it forces me to go faster). 3 out of my last four runs have been JUST under 9 minute/mile. I'm hoping I can keep this up as the weather begins to warm up.

PS. Happy Birthday, Queen TK, the coolest, wino, crazy cat lady, CI ever! :)

PPS. I'm jealous of everyone who got snow! HUMPH!

Alarming

2009-01-19T06:37:00.004-05:00

Have you ever been woken up by the sound of car alarm and just rolled over?

That's what I did this morning. Not 10 minutes later I heard a pounding on my door. I looked out the peep hole and saw a man with glasses. Tentatively I opened the door and kept the chain on...like that would help me some how.

"Ma'am, I'm sorry to wake you, but I'm afraid your car has been broken into."

"SERIOUSLY?"

"Do you have a maroon mazda."

"N0. I have a Nissan. Gold."

We then preceded to argue about whether or not this was my car.

Finally, I pointed out that the previous tennants never changed their address as I still get their mail. They live on the first floor of my building now. The officer went to wake up that couple.

I went to check my car as the officer had stated several cars had been broken into. It's fine. I will be cleaning it out this afternoon and parking under a light from now on.

Oh, and I'll be wearing cuter pajamas that match.

I hope everyone else had a better way to wake up this morning. Happy Monday!

2009-01-15T23:44:00.000-05:00

"You were around before cell phones"

Ouch.

Rain, rain go away

2009-01-06T19:41:00.001-05:00

I got in a fight with my umbrella today.

It won.

It's Christmas time in the city!

2008-12-27T19:24:00.002-05:00

I spent a few days in Richmond, VA with the family for Christmas. I stayed with my sister and brother-in-law. It was nice to spend some extra time with them. I got up NOVA (Northern VA area) yesterday afternoon. We went on a tourist walk around DC this afternoon to see a few Christmas sites around the capital. Below is a picture/map. The Best Man got me a heart rate monitor with GPS. We tried out the GPS part today and are planning on running with the HR monitor tomorrow. Tonight = my first time out and about in DC! :D

View Larger Map

2008-12-21T01:18:00.014-05:00

The past several weeks told via pictures:

I learned that koosies are not just for the beach.

Sam & I made a pretty slick bet and I ended up singing Boys to Men's "End of the Road" with him at the Mexican joint around the corner.

I have been flying with Sam twice. The first time my tummy was not a fan of the decent, but last weekend I felt much better.

Sam and another couple and I went to the Biltmore. It is huge, majestic and way before it's time. The holiday decorations were fantastic!

I had a Girls' Night Out Holiday Party at my apartment.

More apartment pictures to come...too sleepy now. . .

2008-12-20T00:36:00.002-05:00

This is one of my co-workers brother-in-laws. . .

Robby The Elf

Yes. He's serious.

Weak attempt at an update

2008-12-18T21:57:00.002-05:00

I'm alive and well. I'm living in the real world instead of coming home and sitting at the computer from the time I get home until I go to bed. Yes, I have been bad at updating.

TK, I had big plans for today. . . but then my camera battery died. I even took a few pictures of my apartment...oh and of my TK styled updo with shiny, pink lip gloss.

This weekend, my friends, I plan on updating with pictures. Get ready!

Artsy Fartsy

2008-11-29T20:59:00.007-05:00

I thought I'd update with a picture collage of a little hobby of mine. . . wreath making. :)

My fall wreath....yeah, the bow is a little weird... this was before I went to Michael's (I miss Ben Franklin down here!) and got help with the bows.

Wreath above my mantel

My holiday mantel:

Close up:

Another angle:

Wreath on my door:

Pine cones and berries:

Thankful

2008-11-27T17:45:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful that going to work actually made me less lonely down here.
I am thankful that work had a FREE turkey dinner (or lunch as you probably call it, dinner is supper down here, ya'll).
I am thankful for friends who think about me being lonely and offer me food. :)

Decisions

2008-11-24T18:36:00.004-05:00

It's unfortunate how a person's decision can affect another's life. Today, I went to the dentist for the first time since middle school. As a middle schooler, I didn't decide not to go to the dentist anymore. My mom thought dental insurance wasn't important. Sure, I got fliers in grad school for cheap dental insurance, but I didn't trust them. Instead of paying for my own insurance,going to free clinics, or having the hot dental students work on my teeth I waited it out until I got my own. Since September first I've had insurance. I stalled. It took me a while to get motivated to pick a dentist and make the call. The Best Man hounded me into making the call. The list of things I need sounds something like a certain Christmas tune. . .
3 fillings
2 crowns
and
1 dental implant

Oh, and it probably goes without saying, but I cried. I was so embarrassed at the state of my teeth and overwhelmed at the laundry list of things that need to get done. If I had been going to the dentist regularly the past 12 or so years most of this could have been prevented. Oh, well. I'm here for a reason and now it's time to make appointment after appointment to cross items off the above list. Wish me luck!

Give me a line

2008-11-24T08:53:00.001-05:00

RULES:
* Grab the book nearest you right now.
* Turn to page 56
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence, along with these instructions in your blog post.
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

"She had a lot of sex appeal, too, if you really want to know." The Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger

I got this from a friend on facebook. I didn't find a cool line in a book then tell you the page to do it on your own. I think it's terribly, amazing that I got such a cool line. Oh, fate.

So Fresh

2008-11-23T18:14:00.002-05:00

A Fresh Market virgin no more. I was like a kid in a candy shop tonight as I strolled around the isles in the open, maze-of-a-store. The variety of prepared, fresh and packaged foods was slightly overwhelming. They had every holiday food of which you could dream. I picked up mulling spices on my way in on my way to find a bottle of wine and half gallon of milk. I think it's quiet tricky how the aisles are all caddy corner to one another so you have to pass several other tasty items before coming to what you need. However, I only ended up with two more items that I intended...which 2x what I went in for, but I won't think about it like that. I was shocked when the total for my items came up to $13. I had always assumed The Fresh Market was more expensive than other places. Granted I did see things like fancy salsa for 6 dollars or fresh peanut butter for $5 to $8. But, to just run in and grab a couple things it was relatively inexpensive. I think I'm a fan.

Projectile

2008-11-20T17:47:00.003-05:00

Projectile vomit is not as cool as it sounds. Especially, when you have a weak stomach yourself. This why I wear scrubs and retired my crocs with the holes in them. YUCK!

The perks

2008-11-19T22:18:00.002-05:00

The perks of having a whole state between my boyfriend and I:

I don't feel guilty about going out with my girls once a week.

LOVE it! :D

Oh, and The Best Man gets to go out with his friends as well. :-*

2008-11-12T18:51:00.002-05:00

Work is finally going to an EMR (Electronic Medical Record...fancy, ey?). I attended the second of three classes today to get the updated information. The instructors were stumped- twice- with problems that anyone proficient with computers could answer...aka me. I answered the "problems" with ease..."Um, you can't use the button because you haven't activated that field...click in the box." I told The Best Man about helping the instructors in the computer class and he was rather proud...although he somehow seems to think his computer prowess has brushed off on me via osmosis.

2008-11-11T19:58:00.001-05:00

The Boss Lady's monologue:
We don't have round laundry baskets at my house. Everything I fold is in squares...or rectangles. I don't fold anything in a circle. Round laundry baskets don't make sense to me.

Death and Dying

2008-11-10T18:39:00.002-05:00

Words cannot express the grief felt, the tears spent, or memories lost when a loved one passes away. If I knew a thousand languages, I would never be able to find the words to convey what a genuine, caring, compassionate person Barbara was.

Barb went to PT school with me and sat in the front row with me. We "front rowers" as we referred to ourselves, studied together, did group projects together, and went out to lunch for each others birthdays. Barbara inspired us to study harder, disregard other's opinions, relish the time spent together, find time in our busy schedules to laugh, and show thanks for what we had just to name a few things. Over all, Barb inspired us all to become not only the best PT we could be, but also the best person.

At the age of 40, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer just months before graduation. Due to treatments she almost didn't make it to the graduation ceremony in May. She told us she was doing well. I kept meaning to call. I told myself I was busy. Something throughout the day would make me think of her up there in VA and I'd tell myself to call her that night. But, I never did.

Barbara passed away a week and a half ago after spending a month in the hospital, the last week of which she was on hospice. Thankfully, I was able to get off work and find a reasonable plane ticket to be able to attend her funeral. The memories and thoughts of those she left behind made me both cry and laugh. Her family had made a picture collage of her throughout the years. One picture made us all laugh: after losing her hair, instead of a cap or scarf to cover her head, Barb wore a Rastafarian hat complete with dreads down to her stomach. One previous co-worker told a story that made us all laugh. She took a picture of herself drinking a margarita and sent it via text message, saying "This one's for you, just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you." Barb's reply was a picture of her IV running into her arm with the following text: "This is MY margarita." Other stories made me cry or smile, but all made me wish I had known Barbara better and had been a better friend to her.

The past several days have been difficult. It is hard to believe someone so young and full of life can be here one moment, taken for granted, and gone before you know it. Barbara was only 15 years older than me. Too young to be taken by cancer. She was going to be a fantastic PT. She took the time to listen to her patients and she was brilliant. I so regret not calling her these past few months. I wish I had been the friend to her that she was to me. All I can say is that she will be greatly missed.

PR, BABY

2008-10-26T04:02:00.006-04:00

Here's my gimic:

The Dietary Student told me to "Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth!"

We finished.

And I totally PR'd...8 minutes off my time. . .

Place	Bib	Age	Name	City/State	Chip Time	Gun Time	Pace
244	1235	25	KRISTEN SHERIFF	GREENVILLE SC	02:06:56	02:08:33	00:09:49

1/2

2008-10-25T21:19:00.002-04:00

Just ran the Greenville 1/2 Marathon today. I didn't train too much, but I think I PR'd. The official time hasn't been posted yet, but I think I did it in under 2 hours and 10 minutes, which is at least 5 minutes faster than the last one I ran in March. I plan to post intense pictures and the official time once they are up online.

I'm hoping to get motivated this week to actually train for the Richmond half which is next month. . . but at this moment, as I'm hobbling around, I don't want to think about running another race so soon.

2008-10-19T22:15:00.003-04:00

I just took out the trash and returned someone else's sock to the laundry facility in my pj's, brown puffy vest (did you know they are coming back? I'm excited as I never got rid of mine), and boat shoes.

Guy Getting out of His Car: "Cuuute pants!"
Me: "Uuuh, thanks? No one was suppossed to be out here"
Guy: "I wouldn't have said it if I didn't think it was true."

Fall cleaning?

2008-10-19T13:54:00.004-04:00

This weekend I am cleaning house and buying things in preparation for my first TWO house guests! :D The Best Man is wrapping up his road trip this week and will be HERE on Thursday!!! The Dietary Student whom I met while on my rotation in fabulous FarmVegas with The Self Proclaimed Crazy Cat Lady and Best CI Ever (I have given her the second title), is coming to G-Vegas as well. She is attempting to run a marathon in EVERY state. So, while I run the Greenvilel 1/2 she will run the whole marathon. After next weekend she can check off her 5 (I think) state!

I must run to continue buying home decor and groceries! I hope everyone is having a fabulously lazy day!

Seriously

2008-10-16T22:57:00.002-04:00

So, I don't have cable. No big deal. Only only watch two tv shows: Prison Break and Grey's. One would think I wouldn't need cable to watch these. I get Fox for my Prison Break fix on Mondays (when Fox doesn't deem that baseball trumps Prison Break as happened this week). I don't get ABC, however.

This is a problem.

The first episode of the season I managed to invite myself over to the Other New PT's place. Last week, I played her potential wing girl (is that what you call the girl version?) and ended up (after several hours, two phone calls to The Best Man, and one link from said Best Man) watching it online later that weekend.

Tonight, I sunk to an all time low and watched it while walking on the treadmill at the tiny gym here. Normally there isn't anyone in the gym that late.

Notice I said normally. Do you know how awkward it is to tell someone who comes to the gym to work out that they can use your treadmill as you are only walking (and very slowly at that secondary to just having eaten dinner out with the girls) to watch the tv? Well, I'll just say it was so embarassing that I ended up "jogging" after a while despite the pains in my abdomen while my stomach tried to tell me it was still digesting my food.

I hope I get that dumb coupon in the mail so I can get that convertor box and hopefully get regular channels. Wish me luck!

Ear plug

2008-10-08T06:33:00.002-04:00

So I tried out one ear plug last night (I'm afraid I won't hear my own alarm with two). I did not wake up in the middle of the night due to obscene noises from next door like I had done a couple of times in the past few days. I am going to have to kick my habit of hitting "snooze" since the guy above me is still driving me crazy with HIS alarm! I'm way too nice to say anything...but I'm seriously considering it. Some mornings, when I can't get back to sleep when his alarm wakes me too early, it's all I can do not to find the broom and bang on the ceiling above and yell "WAKE UP!"

On a happier note: Today we celebrate a very, special day: It is officially (according to me anyway) one year and six months since The Best Man and I started dating. He is currently chillaxin in Colorado, but we plan to celebrate in two weeks and one day when he (FINALLY) comes to visit! I'm starting to learn about all the fancy places down here, so I'll have to trick him into taking me out somewhere nice! ;) Only kidding. . .

San Francisco: Day 2

2008-09-27T00:28:00.005-04:00

San Fran was MUCH colder than I expected. I mean, this is the west coast we are talking about! It is supposed to be warm! Right? Well, the previous day ended up being warm in Napa Valley, so I thought I'd be fine with my sun dress and a sweater. I ended up having to buy an over priced ($60!) pair of Levi's to put under my sun dress to keep warm. We spent the morning riding the trolley, exploring Fisherman's wharf and window shopping. There was a National Park on the bay, which was pretty cool. Below is a picture of me as a feisty, captain of a ship! Aaarg!

After a lunch of fish and chips with a great view, we checked out Lombardy Street. We got a few decent pictures of it. On our way to check out the Golden Gate we saw a LONG line of tourists waiting to drive down this famous street.

Next, we drove over the Golden Gate for the second time. We went to a cool overlook spot that The Best Man had found the day before I got there. We had spectacular views (despite the fog and wind) with only a few other people.

Then, we drove and drove for at least an hour to get to the Pacific. Below is a picture of the first time my piglets ever touched the Pacific Ocean! Not only was it cold, but it was also contaminated! This was as far as I went in! Afterwards we found a dive of a restaurant for dinner. It looked somewhat questionaable from the outside, but we ended up being pleasantly surprised. We came back and took a bit of a nap, then drank some wine and chatted and ended up getting some really good Indian food from across the street.

That was our trip via pictures. Sorry it took so long to post on the second day. I was busy catching up Grey's Season 4 before the new season started this week (it was spectacular by the way!).

Ps. I'd like to mention that TK has officially gotten me hooked on box wine. The good kind, not the shaddy kind. I do have to agree that the only down fall is not knowing when it will run dry.

Tired.

2008-09-24T17:25:00.004-04:00

This week I'm tired of taking care of people who yell, curse, or at the very nicest frown as soon as they catch sight of me. I'm also tired of helping people who aren't receptive. That's enough complaining for the day. . . I'm off to watch the last two episodes of Grey's Season 4 before Season 5 starts tomorrow...although I still need to figure out exactly how I'll be watching it tomorrow without a cable.

San Francisco: Day 1

2008-09-17T22:09:00.008-04:00

After traveling for nearly 10 hours, I made it to San Francisco only half awake. I did sleep the whole way (but very fitfully because my limbs couldn't stretch out and my legs and butt kept falling asleep), but arriving at 12:30 AM, which was 3:30 East Coast time, really threw me off. Sam was awake of course and chatted my ear off on the way to the hotel.

After a few hours of sleep we got up a little before 7 in order to leave for The Ferry Building at quarter til. We hopped on our first trolley after walking up a hill or two. San Francisco, like Rome (and Richmond!), has 7 hills. I was so surprised at how hilly the city was. I've never seen a city with that many HUGE hills. I think the only reason such a hilly place turned into such a big city is the fact that it's on the water; a port city. I digress. The morning trolley experience wasn't terribly exciting because it was so early and we were one of the few groups of people on the trolley. However, this was great for watching how those things work!

On the way to Napa Valley we crossed over the Golden Gate bridge for the first time and got to see some of the country side.

The first winery was all sparkling or bubbly wine. We learned that only vines from France can be called Champagne due to a treaty. Of course, the U.S. did not sign this treaty with France, but we do honor it and don't use the term Champagne. The tour guide of this winery was very animated for 9:30 in the morning and drank along with us. I'm sure he must have been toasted by noon. The Best Man bought a bottle of bubbly at my request (I'm hoping to use it to celebrate in the next 3 years or so).

Next, we had a picnic lunch of sandwiches and pesto pasta at the second winery. Then, we tasted the wine. This was by far my favourite winery. Everything tasted great and I actually wanted to drink these wines. The Best Man ended up buying THREE bottles of wine.

Then, I get a little fuzzy. We went to two more wineries. One of which we tasted outside and I really enjoyed getting to walk along the vines. The other winery had pretty terrible wine, but since we each got 10 off a bottle we bought two bottles for 9 dollas total!

We ended the afternoon on a ferry back to San Francisco. Even though the wind and speed made it colder, we sat outside on the back of the ferry. We had a much better view than sitting inside.

I'll try to update on day 2 sometime soon! :)

Best Coast here I come!

2008-09-10T22:27:00.004-04:00

SO very excited for my trip to San Francisco this weekend! I don't think it will really hit me until I get on the plane/s. I had to work this past weekend for the first time and have subsequently worked the past 7 days in a row. At this point, my main focus is getting through tomorrow's work day (especially since TEN more patients were admitted on my floor alone today). THEN, I will be even more excited. I even have a friend here who is going to drive me to and from the airport! Yesss! I love that I've known her for less than two months and she's willing to go out of her way to drive me around. It probably also helps that she lives 5 minutes from the airport and just bought a sexy, new Beamer this past weekend. It's nice to find girl friends down here who are like the ones I left at home- or like the one I've known since kindergarten at least.

Besides drinking Californian wine in Napa Valley, I am most looking forward to hugging The Best Man. I think that will be the highlight of this trip. I am a very huggy, touchy, feely kinda person. I have only gotten a handful of hugs since I've been down here. These hugs were fleeting and sometimes obligatory and/or awkward. I can't wait to be hugged by someone who knows me and loves me. I think that's the best feeling in the world. Just getting lost in a hug. That is something that I took for granted in the past. Now that I don't have close friends and family to hug I am dearly missing it. It's amazing how much we need another human's touch. Maybe that's part of why I do what I do? Just a thought.

Also, of note, I will be having my first guests next month (unless I can con other friends and family to come sooner). The Dietary Student from my best clinical will be visiting in October to run the marathon (I'm doing the half). This is also right when The Best Man will (hopefully slash better) make it into town. I'm looking forward to showing off my town. Now, I just have to trick my family, KO & Mike, The Newly Weds, TK & PB, etc. to come visit!

Addiction

2008-09-07T21:25:00.002-04:00

I know I have a problem. And I'm trying to stop. I really am. Part of me knows that buying 6 pairs of shoes in the 2 months I've lived here is obscene. But honestly, I needed 5 of the 6 pairs. I've been seeing girls in cute sandals all summer, so I got a pair to celebrate being done with boards. Plus, they were only 10 dollars. Then, I needed new running shoes. That's valid, right? Well, they were having a buy one get one half off sale. So, I got a pair of Sperrys. I needed those, too. I mean, I can't live in South Carolina and not have a pair of tan Sperrys. The blue pair I got last summer doesn't work with a lot of outfits. Pair number four was a pair of brown moccasins. I have been wanting some since last fall and I don't have a single pair of brown shoes. They were a necessary asset to my wardrobe. Today, I bought two pairs of shoes. Both purple. They are completely different shades of course. Obviously it would not have been practical to have two pairs of shoes the same color purple. It's not like I have any other pairs of purple shoes (well, unless you count flip flops, but those are only $3 from Old Navy). Three pairs of purple shoes would just be too much. Don't you agree? I have bought more than just shoes, but I won't bore you with more details. I have lost 15 pounds since this time last year, so its all needed. Plus, I got rid of a lot of clothes over the last year over the biggest of 5 moves. It also doesn't help when a friend of mine down here says she won't wear something around the same people/person for a year or so. I can't wear the same 5 tops every week. Enough of excuses. The plan is to save up for furniture and student loans. I'm not going to buy any more clothes this month. Well, at least not until I get to San Francisco later this week. . .

Pictures

2008-09-03T22:27:00.002-04:00

I thought I'd post some pictures to prove that I am indeed talking to people and making friends.
Below is the evidence.

I decided to have a weekly girls night out. The second of which was last night. From left to right: 1) me, 2) new RN on my floor who works nights, 3) went to grad school with 4) new PT that I work with :)

Rehab Night Out: From left to right: 1) OT on my floor who is sadly leaving in 2.5 weeks, 2) guy who's job I took, 3) me, 4) new PT, 5) our lovely secretary :)

Spending money to save money

2008-09-03T22:03:00.003-04:00

Spending a lot of dough eventually means I'll save some in the long run. My lucky day was today. I found a pair of boots for $60 off! Original price: $80, "Sale" price: $20. I use "quotes" because apparently it was a mistake; the new boots were not actually on sale. The lady at the register was not pleased at my "deal." When peeking inside the shoe box (to make sure I didn't steal anything), she exclaimed, "My daughter would LOVE to get THESE boots for TWENTY dollars!" Hey, I didn't make it up, lady, that's what the tag said!

My second money saving event of the day involved pesto. I had some pasta noodles left over. I've been trying all week to find some pesto to put on the pasta. The small Publix on my way home from work, Super BI-lo and Walmart do not carry pesto. Some of the workers even asked what it was! Crossing my fingers, I drove to Whole Foods as a last, expensive resort. Of course it was twice as expensive as it would have been if the other stores had carried it. When the girl tried to ring it up (that was the only thing I planned to purchase), it wouldn't scan. I told her this was the 3rd place I'd tried (3rd today, 4th over all). She then said, "It's not ringing up, that's a big zero." Then, she filled out a form and gave me the six dollar pesto for free. I don't know if it was the fact that it was organic or free that made this pesto taste better than my usual 3 dolla variety. Dinner never tasted so good!

Rendevouz

2008-09-02T06:58:00.002-04:00

Did I mention The Best Man and I are meeting up in San Francisco next weekend? Yay, I'm pretty pumped on life! We're going on a wine tour in the Napa Valley. On the way back from the tour we ride a ferry and go by The Golden Gate. You should be very jealous. Oh, and I got a new camera last week and it looks like I'll finally get to use it!

Also, of note, second Girls' Night Out outing tonight: Sushi for 2 dolla! Mmm wasabiii! :D

The Skinny

2008-08-31T19:45:00.001-04:00

I can fit into my "skinny jeans." Score!

Reasons I'm not sleeping

2008-08-29T06:56:00.002-04:00

1. I go through bouts of insomnia with changes in my life or when I'm stressed, ie I just moved to a new state alone and started my first big girl job.
2. Guy upstairs who's alarm goes off for at least an hour before he gets up- oh and it goes off at least 20 minutes before mine.
3. Next door: squeaky bed, loud girlfriend. Disgusting.
4. I don't go to bed early enough, which leaves me less time to sleep, plus its about that time when number 3 occurs. :(

Smelly

2008-08-28T17:31:00.003-04:00

I noticed the towel I've been using the past few days smelled funny last night. I forgot to get a clean towel until I used it again today. Sniffing again, I was able to place the smell. Baby spit up. Yuck.

Project RUNway

2008-08-27T22:22:00.002-04:00

I've got multiple excuses for not working out in the past week. Tonight, I found something on the TV in the "gym" here that kept me working out for an hour. Okay, so an hour? Really? That's not that big of a feat. It really isn't. Except that I get bored on the 3 machines they have and was sick all weekend. There I go with the excuses. Anyway, I'm glad that I was able to find something entertaining enough to make me sweat for a whole 60 minutes. Maybe I do need to join a gym with a TV on every machine?

Turkey

2008-08-23T01:18:00.003-04:00

Today is the first day in ___ days (or weeks) that I have not watched even one episode of Grey's! Coincidentaly enough, it was also the first day that I had someone besides The Best Man set foot into my apartment. The other new PT came over before a night out with the rest of our department. I made turkey burgers. It was pretty good, if I do say so myself. I will have to find a new obsession once all these crazy people here start watching football. "How I Met Your Mother"??

Giiirls Night Out :)

2008-08-20T22:15:00.003-04:00

So. I'm shy. And sometimes I don't talk unless spoken to. But, I have some how managed to make friends down here. Friends who don't stand me up and leave me hanging. It's pretty exciting. I've forgotten how much I've missed just hanging out with the girls. Well, actually I didn't forget, they forgot. At this point I'm simply rambling. I'll just say that I'm impressed that lil' ol' shy me has made some girl friends who are Southern, classy, pretty, funny, genuine, silly, fashionable and well mannered. Now, I just have to get them to take me shopping. :)

Another loud neighbor

2008-08-18T20:38:00.001-04:00

The guy next door has a very squeaky bed.

Upstairs

2008-08-14T07:14:00.003-04:00

So, the guy who lives above me was absent for a while. At least I didn't hear him. Then I started hearing multiple foot steps prancing around. I finally figured out that he frequently has several extended family members over for dinner. This noise does not bother as I am awake.

What does bother me is that his alarm goes off at 6 AM every morning. This would not be so bad if he also got up at 6 AM every morning. The alarm goes off continuously until 6:20, which also happens to be when my alarm goes off, when he gets up, crosses the room and presses snooze. 9 minutes later its screeech screeech screeech until 7:10, which is 10 minutes before I leave. I mean, seriously?!

The Brat Pack

2008-08-11T21:21:00.002-04:00

Raise your left hand if you know and love "The Brat Pack."

Raise your right hand if you have seen "The Breakfast Club" and recognize references to it in pop culture.

If both of your hands are up in the air, then you should be as astonished as I was when I saw a reference to "The Breakfast Club" in a JC Penny comercia for back to school shopping for tweens and teens.

Seriously? That reference went over all their heads. One of my lifeguards who is 17 had not seen nor heard of "The Goonies. " Now, I know these two movies are not in the same realm, but bare with me a moment. If a soon to be high school senior doesn't know what "Goonies never say die" means, how is he going to catch the reference to "The Breakfast Club?" I'm just sayin'!

2008-08-07T17:52:00.002-04:00

Speaking of Grey's, I got an ad in the mail for another apartment complex. It reads:

paper or plastic?
USC or Clemson?
mcdreamy or mcsteamy?
expensive or inexpensive?

some choices are easy, but some just make cents!!!

I LOVE the Grey's reference. Just so you know, people are CRAZY down here about Carolina vs. Clemson football. I was told by another Virginian who has relocated here "Just tell them you're not from here. Do not pick sides. What ever you do, do not pick sides." I appreciate his advice.

Extensive

2008-08-06T22:19:00.004-04:00

Old people amaze me.

Today, I watched a very extensive surgery and later worked with the patient to get out of bed. They say young people are very resilient, but I find if you look very closely...you'll find (perhaps a subset of) old persons are too.

I mean, look at my English Granny. She is 86...87? And has just about warn out all her old crusin friends. She broke her arm a couple of years ago and would only take Tylenol.

Side note: With every Grey's Anatomy episode I watch (and I watched 3 this evening) I realize it's about me. It's time to put me first. Well, that is why I moved down here after all, isn't it?

Oh, and I went to my first baseball game here last night w/ the RN. Apparently, we are on a loosing streak, but we didn't notice as we chatted it up the whole time. :)

P.S. Is it Friday yet???

Weekend Numero Dos

2008-08-03T21:30:00.003-04:00

This weekend was slightly more exciting than last because it was filled with more sun and friends! :) I layed by the pool both Saturday and Sunday and am subsequently now sporting a few more freckles. Last night, I saw Dark Knight with the Pharmacists. What a great movie! It's very surreal to think that is the last we will see of Health Ledger. I'm not good with eulogies, but I will certainly miss him. After the movie, we went to Fridays. I had fish tacos. This made me think of Cabo Fish Taco in Blacksburg, VA. Now THOSE were some good fish tacos! The Pharmacists are both really nice, genuine people- even if they think I'm crazy for dating a vagabond who is currently hiking all over the place! ;) Actually, I'm currently on the phone with The Best Man...so I better go pay attention to him all the way in South Dakota!

Rehab Orientation: The Real Tour

2008-08-01T17:19:00.002-04:00

Today, the new OT and I got a Real Tour of each floor. We walked each floor as our guide told us the usual diagnoses and pointed out where to find x, y, and z. This was all extremely helpful!

About 10 of us went to lunch...Mexican. I am definitely getting my fill of chips and salsa this week! It was nice to get out and not be talked at but instead talk with people. Of course, this made it hard to actually get back to work, especially since we had more paper work to do after lunch.

So. I'm on the floor with a scary Doc. One that will yell if I don't cross a "t" or dot an "i". . . Yiiikes! That's all I'm going to say about that because I don't want to work myself up into a frenzy. Be prepared to hear me complain about walking on egg shells and bending over backwards to please. Maybe I'll surprise all of us and stand up for myself, you never know!

Policies and Procedures

2008-07-31T18:37:00.004-04:00

Yesterday, we went over the new EMR (Electronic Medical Record) that is in it's second phase now. We won't actually start documenting with it until October, but can already look up some information using it. TK, this put's Farmvegas' to shame! Okay, so that's not hard to do, but still. It's pretty amazing that before I even go up on the floor I can see if my patients have had their pain medications, see images of their x-rays, and abnormal lab values (which are spelled out as if they knew that this is a hole in our education "hey, you, dummy, this value is abnormally high!") all with the click of a few keys. I love it!

P.S. I had Mexican last night with the Pharmacist and his Pharmacist Wife and her brother. It was delicious! I loved getting out of the house and interacting with other people...even if I did clam up a bit! Mmm chips and cheeese dip! :)

On to today. Policies and Procedures. All of this is necessary, but entirely too dull to enlighten you with. Except for:

"Do you know what R.A.C.E is?"

Rescue. Alarm. Contain. Extinguish.

"Good, what about P.A.S.S?"

Pull. Aim. Squeeze. Sweep

Then she went over what we do during a fire alarm/drill. As her words are still hanging in a little speech bubble attached to her lips the fire alarm starts going off "Code Zero Basement." Pretty crazy timing. Who has ever heard of a fire code being anything but red??? Weird.

Here's a picture of me in my new royal blue scrubs:

I LOVE this color...not to mention the comfort and lack of having to decide what to wear in the morning. How amazing do they make my eyes look?! I am trying to embrace the crazy curls being loud and wild and free like you people seem to dig...it's hard in this humidity. And I thought VA was bad! Any product suggestions?

Orientation: Day 2

2008-07-29T17:38:00.004-04:00

Today was much more boring. There were less speakers than yesterday, which meant we had to listen to the same few people talk ALL day. Here are a few highlights:

From the older black woman on risk management: "We had this woman about to walk up the escalator and two ceiling tiles fell on her head. Lucky for us she had thick hair and all I had to do was pay for her to go to the beauty shop."

From the 5 foot 2, self-proclaimed "little man with a little power" and thick rimmed Clark Kent like glasses on security: "When you leave work at night, I want you to take off your name tag, put it deep in your pocket, and be the meanest SOB around! I mean it! If someone asks you for money say 'Get a job! I did!'" aaaand...

When describing himself and his position ("The Security Guy"): "I am the scrawny, geeky guy with the thick glasses and pocket protector that you picked on in high school. Now, I'm back to haunt you. I'm here to make sure every little thing is in line. I'm here to catch you doing things incorrectly. When little men, get a little power...it's a scary thing!"

Another highlight, which I did not think was funny (unlike the two speakers above who had me in stitches the whole time): When a non-PT, non-health care provider presented the section on back injury prevention. Man, I get frustrated just thinking about it. It was all I could do not to shout out things she was saying incorrectly or missing on the slides.

On a brighter note, I'm going out for Mexican tomorrow with the pharmacist and his pharmacist wife. :) Yuuum!

Orientation: Day 1

2008-07-28T19:03:00.004-04:00

The hardest thing about working, second only to actually waking up and getting out of bed, is taming this mane:

This is my idea of tame: wax + a hair tie = half up and almost professional???

Okay, so we all hate icebreakers, right? Orientation of course started with talking to your "new best friend" and then introducing them to the rest of the group (close to 30 people) . I was introduced as being "athletic, a runner." Half way through the day a young pharmacist cornered me and asked about my running. We ended up exchanging numbers so his wife and I can be running partners. She sounds a lot faster than I am, but maybe this will be the motivation I need to kick it up a notch. Plus, he's from here and she isn't and she needs to meet people and so do I. Perfect! I also met a new grad RN who will be working on the orthopedics floor. She's from here and knows where to go and where not to go. Again, perfect! I cannot believe that I, the girl who does not speak unless spoken to, got not one but two phone numbers today! Score!

About the orientation itself: boring of course, but it somehow managed to leave me excited to be working for this company (not to mention scared about determining my benefits and 403b plan!).

If you want to laugh, read The Best Man's account of being locked out in his underwear ;)

First Weekend

2008-07-26T23:01:00.010-04:00

My first weekend here alone (without The Best Man) and NOT studying went a little something like this:

Friday:
- Began reading Inventing a Nation- Washington, Adams, Jefferson
- Lounged by the pool and got a tinsy bit burned
- Crocheted a scarf for someone from high school...I was supposed to finish this in 2000. . .
- Ran 1.75 miles on the treadmill
- Watched Bridget Jones' Diary & Wimbledon
- Drank wine
- Missed The Best Man (he's in Illinois)
- Texted The Best Man
- Talked to The Best Man

Saturday:
- Recycled the boxes I have unpacked
- Bought a really cute dress from Old Navy
- Ran 1.99 miles on the treadmill
- Finished the scarf noted above and started working on another half finished one
- Watched Serendipity
- Did not drink wine

Sunday:
- Lounged by the pool while reading, crocheting, and listening to the outrageous accents of the other people at the pool
- Cleaned my bathroom
- Grocery shopped
- Elliptical x 20 minutes
- Got ready for my first day of work! :)

Man, what an exciting life I lead!

Don't you hate lying?

2008-07-24T19:55:00.004-04:00

Nervous Woman on Airplane: Don't you just hate flying?
Annie Reed: Yes, I do, and I just told the most terrible one to the man I'm about to marry. Do you feel that any lie is a betrayal?
[pause]
Nervous Woman on Airplane: I said FLYING.

Man, what a spectacular movie!

So, I lied. I vowed that I would go out in public, even by myself, so I did. Thursdays and Fridays there are free concerts downtown. So I gave it a shot.

I have this really bad habit that if I make eye contact with someone by accident (while I'm people watching) I keep looking back to see if they think I'm still looking. Well, guess what they keep noticing me and I keep noticing them. This happened with two people tonight. Here's where my lie comes in:

1) An olderish, trying to be younger woman on a date. She just thought I was weird.
2) A mid-to-late-at-least-10-years-older-than-me-man-wearing- tallish-black-socks- with-shorts.
He did not think I was weird.
"Are you waiting for someone?" (As I reached into my purse to call The Best Man)
(Who could I be waiting for in a town where I don't know a soul?)
"Yes?"
"Oh. . . What time is it?"
"Almost 7:30."
"Lovely."

Then I called The Best Man to chat with him on his first leg of his 3 MONTH long road trip. And I left.

Meeting people is hard when you are painfully shy, taken, and piiiicky.

A Kodak moment or two. . .

2008-07-23T21:47:00.004-04:00

Good news, people! I found the USB cable to connect my camera to the computer! Score! Here are a few pictures from the past couple of weeks:

7/11: Moving down to G-ville. The car was packed!

My odometer at one point during the trip:

The Best Man blowing out the candles on the tower o' brownies I made him for his birthday:

7/18: HUGE snapping turtle The Best Man spotted while camping this past weekend:

"I don't want no scrub, a scrub is a guy who thinks he's fly"

2008-07-22T17:57:00.002-04:00

As much as I LOVE Grey's Anatomy I freaked out when I was almost forced to buy a Grey's scrub top. I have to get scrubs in royal blue and was having trouble finding tops in this color in my size. At first, I could only find 1 Grey's Anatomy brand scrub top in my size. Okay, so it was pretty cute and actually makes me look like a woman and not a teenage boy. But it's almost borderline sexy (well, I think scrubs are sexy in general, so maybe that's just me?) and who is going to take me seriously wearing a scrub top that has a little Grey's Anatomy tag on it? No one! Thankfully, after looking around for 10 extra minutes I found 2 unisex tops and didn't have to buy the Grey's top. Phew! That also saved me about $14 bucks because obviously Grey's scrubs come with a trendy price. Too bad I'm back to looking like a boy, but at least I have cute Dickies bottoms :)

The Results

2008-07-21T18:21:00.002-04:00

So, I took the test last Wednesday and have been in hiding (aka driving back to VA and camping) ever since. That was the worst 4 hours of my life. I walked out "knowing" that I didn't pass. I've been practicing a mix of dispair and indifference until today when they finally posted that I'm now licensed (they have had my results since LAST THURSDAY).

Now, I have come out of hiding with the good news and can get on with my life! Whew! I will try to update once this adrenaline rush wears off!