MELISA (ann)

2011 Seasonal Sensations

2011-12-23T20:00:00.000-06:00

PERSONALITY

2011-12-12T09:47:00.000-06:00

"That they may be one, even as we are one." John 17:22

Personality is that peculiar, incalculable thing that is meant when we speak of ourselves as distinct from everyone else. Our personality is always too big for us to grasp. An island in the sea may be but the top of a great mountain. Personality is like an island, we know nothing about the great depths underneath, consequently we cannot estimate ourselves. We begin by thinking that we can, but we come to realize that there is only one Being Who understands us, and that is our Creator.

Personality is the characteristic of the spiritual man as individuality is the characteristic of the natural man. Our Lord can never be defined in terms of individuality and independence, but only in terms of personality, "I and My Father are one." Personality merges, and you only reach your real identity when you are merged with another person. When love, or the Spirit of God strikes a man, he is transformed, he no longer insists upon his separate individuality. Our Lord never spoke in terms of individuality, of a man’s "elbows" or his isolated position, but in terms of personality - "that they may be one, even as We are one." If you give up your right to yourself to God, the real true nature of your personality answers to God straight away. Jesus Christ emancipates the personality, and the individuality is transfigured; the transfiguring element is love, personal devotion to Jesus. Love is the outpouring of one personality in fellowship with another personality.

Visit us online at www.mmint.org.

Kansas Earthshake

2011-11-06T21:33:00.004-06:00

I didn't know it could happen...an earthquake felt in Kansas.

Sitting in the doc area at St Joes I felt my chair start to shake. I looked down the hall thinking something very large was running down the hallway. We had already just have 3 EMS crews go by so this time I thought what the heck are they bringing now!

The doc next to me was on the phone. He didn't feel it. Luckily I wasn't crazy and others had felt it. Working in the ER I am learning not to be so gullible and I was proud to not believe the first time they told me it was probably an earthquake. HA!

It was confirmed that a 5.6 magnitude quake was felt in Wichita that originated from Sparks, Oklahoma.

It was my first earth-shake!

True That

2011-10-27T01:00:00.002-05:00

homework

2011-10-15T01:53:00.002-05:00

Thought this was too cute not to share...hope it is not to small to read.

Happy Birthday.....

2011-10-13T02:12:00.004-05:00

MEMPHIS!!

Today my puppy turns 3 years old. By several different internet sites this means that his "human years" are any where from 21 to 28 years of age.

Maybe this means he will grow out of his anxiety. Maybe he will grow out of digging holes in the back yard or tearing up my kitchen when I am away. This owner can only hope.

I do wish him a happy birthday with many more joyful years to come!

Conjunctivitis

2011-09-17T23:13:00.003-05:00

So in my very first blog post EVER I mentioned that I did not know the intent of my blog but I would plan to give you important medical advice...so today I thought it would be fun to educate you.

Conjunctivitis (PINK EYE):

Definition= Inflammation of the conjunctiva characterized by vascular dilation, cellular infiltration, and exudation.

Cause=Leading cause is viral caused by the adenovirus others may be bacterial in nature caused by a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Some may be allergic in origin.

Clinical Presentation for viral= conjunctival hyperemia, edema, and a watery discharge. vision is unaffected

Clinical Presentation for bacterial=acute onset one eye then spreads, mucopurulent or purulent discharge develops. Eyelids are often edematous with collection of debris at base of lashes and matting of the eyelashes.

Clinical Presentation for Allergic= itching is the hallmark of this condition. watery eyes and often with rhinitis (nose irritation) or allergic pharyngitits (throat irritation)

Treatment:

For viral and bacterial: Broad spectrum antibiotics administered 4 times daily for 7-10 days.

For allergic: Remove offending allergy and antihistamines.

EDUCATION:

Infection is easily spread.

Frequent hand washing cannot be over emphasized!!

Eye secretions are contagious for 24-48 hours after therapy begins

Medication should be instilled in inner aspect of the lower eye lid.

Questions? SEE YOUR FAMILY DOCTOR.

Example photo of a "fun" recent personal experience:

September steals

2011-09-03T23:17:00.009-05:00

So I write this as I sit in a food coma from today's activities. I just have to tell you about all the meals and deals I got today there is just so much to share. Keep in mind if you are r

eading that it is still me here....me who hates to shop!

1. Headed to Yoder for some yummy breakfast at Cariage Crossing. Yum!

2. Shopped around Yoder. Cute. Attention all: They have opened a new

Etcetera shop there last week....what deals. My amazing purchase and larges

t of the day was a solid wood sewing cabinet!! Amazing deal for only $20!! THAT IS RIGHT only $20! Think of all the future crafty things that can be made on this gem!! To add to my delight it slid right in the back of Holly's amazing lil' mini Diva!

Of course this limited our future purchasing options but you couldn't stop us now! Off to Hutchinson we went....

3. The Anchor Inn. Delicious Mexican buffet complete with tamales, enchiladas, guac, and all the fixings.

4. Salvation Army. Picked up a cute fall leaf pattern serving bowl. It will be unveiled at the future pumpkin carving party. I know you can't wait to admire it!

5. Amazing shops up and down main street. I will mention my top two:

Toy Depot This little place just opened and you can find everything like: lincoln logs, marbles, hot wheel, tractors, trains, old school toys I played with at Grand

ma's, board and card games galore, and so much more. My steal was the card game of Authors. Played it at Grandpa and Grandma B's lots. Great memories.

Etcertera Shop

It is like a large scale well organized thrift shop and Ten Thousand Villages all in one. My sweet deals included vases and baby clothes for my future cousin's baby. Cute Cute. Holly was the winner of the best deal at this place! Amazing $10 dress that looks like it was made just for her. You will have to see it to believe it! My non-buyer's regret a $5 light bright...but i couldn't get it to work.

6. Boogies Gotta stop for more calories because CLEARLY we have not consumed enough calories yet today. My hot fudge butter pecan shake was worth every calorie ingested!

7. After a long drive back to town and unloading our haul...it was off to Red Robin to meet up with my Ms. Pioneer friend for good laughs and bottom-less fries.

Ahhhhhhhhh exhausted yet so satisfied! Great start to the Labor Day festivities planed.

PS Thanks for Ho for hauling all my Sept steals and thanks to my Bro for taking care of the dog!

life lessons just today

2011-09-02T01:40:00.002-05:00

Today I saved a cicada from the pool. I felt good. Then I looked over a minute later and saw a robin eating it. Circle of life.

Only I would leave the house with a half eaten pizza on the stove and the dog trapped in the kitchen and expect the pizza to be there when I return. Ooops! Lesson learned I am a dumb dog owner.

Conversations with my mentoree today:

A-"Maybe your dog hurt his back cause it is so hot outside the heat pushes his back down or something" Lesson learned: Teach kid more about health science

A- "Even if you come a minute late like you usually do it is ok because I know you will be there like you say you will." Lesson learned: make better effort to be on time. I forgot as a kid I thought minutes were hours.

A-"Under the water you look skinny" Me- "uhm thanks" Lesson learned: I take what I can get!

Kids blossom with positive relationships. I have seen good things in only a months time. Take the time...Be a mentor today!

Update

2011-08-23T01:34:00.002-05:00

Felt guilty about not keeping up the blog but not feeling creative and I don't know where to begin, therefore, I will list a few things that have happened in my life to catch you up since my last post (in random order):

1. DOG. Yes it is true I now live with a boy. His name is Memphis and he is the new love of my life. He is 2 years old golden retriever. His first "gottcha day" was April 16 2011. He makes me a better person...well I at least walk more.

2. DR. So I took a non advertised trip to the Dominican Republic in June. Not really talked about because 1) it was short 2) it was only in Punta Cana and at an all inclusive resort. If you know anything about my trips to the Dominican Republic before this was a moral dilemma of a trip for me. I celebrated a very special friend's 30th birthday there. Let me tell you it was a blast of a celebration!

3. Thailand. I was blessed with my second trip to Thailand. What an awesome experience. This trip I flew to Bangkok and went north to Chiang Mai and traveled around seeing much of the country and the people. Swam at the boat houses, ate a ton of good stuff, played with tigers, walked around thousand year old ancient kingdoms, ate yummy food, zip-lined through a jungle, ate fresh fruit smoothies, bartered at the open market, took a Thai cooking class, met great missionaries doing great work, got pampered with Thai massages and fancy pedicures. Did I mention I ate great Thai food? Can't wait to visit for a third time!

4. July Family work days. My wonderful parents and grandparent came down to visit for a few days and let me tell you.....my family shows love with great deeds, food, fun, and laughter. My house is looking better on the inside and outside! It was a great Birkey reunion in Wichita/Leon, Kansas

5. Iowa State Fair. This should be an annual tradition for all! I mean who can resist this year's new creation on a stick: Fried butter! Yuck! It was in honor of the 100 year anniversary of the butter cow. I honored the butter cow but cutting through a long line of people and snapping a picture of The Butter Cow and eating it on my iowa corn... not fried on a stick. I did enjoy fried pickles, fried cheese, a pork tenderloin, The Nadas, the double ferris wheel, Casting Crowns and Santus Real concert in the grand stand, Fatty (the 2nd biggest boar), sheep shearing contest, the farrowing barn and all the other animals. Holly and Anne came up to join the festivities for the week-end! I love sharing my Iowa state fair. Next year anyone?

6. Manson. In a small town in Iowa my amazing grandparents keep a home. Jodi and I got to visit for several days but it is never long enough. Spoiled is all we were there. Great great great food. Sewing projects of old fabrics that hold lots of history for the family. Grandma has been working through all her fabric scraps and we made comforters of all different sizes under the instruction of an expert seamstress! Bike rides, Skip Bo, Black 7's, farmer's market, Country Cutter's hair cuts, shucking home grown corn, eating ripe tomatoes, ham and bean soup, wheel of fortune, chocolate malts, popcorn, and devotions. I was blessed.

7. Oklahoma City. 10 hours. 3 meals. 4 awesome friends (one in spirit) Chik fil A. Cuppies and Joe. DSW. Pops. Holly shopping. Feeling stuffed.

8. Washington D.C. A week long visit to the VS house where my sister resided. Many museums. Arlington National Cemetery. The National Cathedral. The Basilica. sister bonding. chinola juice, la banderia, papusas, rollerderby finals, and a D.C United soccer game.

9. Memphis. Erin's graduate graduation. Birkey/Thiessen bonding (minus Justin and Amy). non-pool Hotel stay, Chik fil A, long ceremonies, meeting a special boy named Drew, airhorns, BB Kings. Beal streat. Lorraine hotel. Martin Luther King Jr. Museum. real BBQ. Liam's 3 year old birthday party on a downtown trolley. birthday hats. cupcakes. love.

10. Thanksgiving. Around state fair time everyone made it home to DSM so mom celebrated with a Thanksgiving meal and made it completed with the famous Birkey pumpkin pie. YUMMY!

11. work

Osama Bin Laden is dead.

2011-05-02T23:17:00.000-05:00

‎"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate only multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only LOVE can do that."

-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr

numbers?

2011-04-05T02:31:00.002-05:00

So I had a personal conversation tonight with a co-worker: about love, life, marriage, and dating.

He said "it is all a numbers game" and " don't get stuck in your routine of work and what ever you do"

only the RARE and lucky ones date 3-4 people in their lives and end up with their life partner.

see as many people as possible.... don't be a slut about it.

I have now had several conversations now with distant and close friends (girls and boys) that have mentioned similar theories.

opinions?

is it really a numbers game folks?

creativity

2011-04-03T16:38:00.002-05:00

I wish I was this creative.

Happy Birthday Me!

2011-03-24T14:52:00.002-05:00

This is the first of many 29's to come!

What does it mean to be in my last year of 20s and how am I going to "live it up"?

Suggestions?

Here is a start...

Hurting

2011-03-19T10:07:00.002-05:00

Today I have many friends that are hurting, mourning, and remembering. Today is one year since Regan Wheeler passed away. Regan is the daughter of a good co-worker, past classmate, and friend of mine. Can you imagine losing a 13 year old full of life from a tragic accident? This family is dealing with more than I can imagine. Konnie has handled it with strength every second of the day even if she doesn't believe so...as she has told me...some days are good and some are bad. Please pray for her family and friends still dealing with this tragic accident and mourning a big loss in their lives.

Prayers also for my sister-in-law's mother who is dealing with serious health issues related to pancreatic cancer.

Romans 15:13 -May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Over-due

2011-03-13T16:55:00.003-05:00

Ever wait so long to do something that it seems over whelming to do?

new blog post.

preparing for the tropics

2011-01-21T11:36:00.002-06:00

Today I took a big step in preparing for my trip to the Dominican Republic...on the outside.

Tanning.

Only I would walk in to a tanning salon with a coupon of a week of free tanning and walk out with a crazy contraction, face lotion, and lip gloss. Seriously LIP GLOSS!?? What was I thinking?! You can only imagine the rest of the expensive when I tell you the lip gloss was $6..yikes. I just walked off thinking...I just wanted a base tan. Good grief!

Bones Resolutions

2011-01-05T13:36:00.002-06:00

Speaking of resolutions I found this fun little slide show of resolutions with my favorite TV show right now.....BONES!

Slideshow 11 ‘Bones’-Themed New Year’s Resolutions for 2011

a new year

2011-01-04T11:12:00.003-06:00

So to start off the New Year I resolute to not have any resolutions...

aka I have personal issues I don't want to deal with! Ha

So this morning I went to Panera for a breakfast date that ended up being with myself. I should really do that more often: date myself. So there I am eating my pecan roll and coffee...(coffee with more cream and sugar than coffee. The calories were probably just as much as the hot chocolate that I avoided because Panera has decided to list the calories next to the items...thanks Panera, THANKS!)

So anyways there I am catching up on emails and texting a good friend and I think to myself what a perfect time to update my blog. (A much needed update since my fans have been begging! You know who you are! Make a comment now. I dare you.)

Now what to blog about? I have had Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's since the last update. Count it... 3 major holidays and lots of stuff in between. So as my creative juices start to flow I pick up on a table conversation next to me," I am not worried about my swimming times....The beaver creek run was my best bike....I have been running a lot these last weeks...here are my times (enter impressive numbers I am sure)" As I sit there the pecan roll gets heavier and heavier on the way to my mouth. Dang these boys. Ruining a perfectly good date with myself. Off to the comforts of my warm house and comfy couch. Happy New Year to me!

Vacations over

2010-11-14T23:05:00.003-06:00

So obviously I am way behing on my recap of the Washington D.C Trip!
Sorry folks.
I was doing so good until the day I used my phone for all my pictures and then I was lazy in getting them uploaded. Let's face it...it is so much better to upload and rearrange photos on facebook....so that is what I did. Enjoy them there!
(Anyone want to give me pointers on blogspot uploading and more importantly spacing and publishing?!)

Anyways I had an awesome time and was sad to leave my amazing sis.

Good bye D.C. Hope to see you again soon.

Day 5: Museum Day

2010-11-07T09:16:00.004-06:00

So Jodi was back to work for the day and I took off to explore the city. I specifically had all the Smithsonian Museums in mind...wow so overwhelming! Here is a website to help plan your trip! http://www.si.edu/

Here are a few pictures from the Natural History Museum. Such amazing and diverse exhibits there!

One of my favorite exhibitions there was an area called Written in Bone. They had question and answer time from real forensic anthropologist available. It was so awesome. The theme for the morning was a focus on Civil War anthropology and medicine. It is amazing to see how our techniques have changed or not changed much in different areas of medicine.

Here's a look at the American Indian Museum

I also made it to the Space and Air Museum which I really enjoyed. It was like a giant giant cosmosphere. Then off to a art and sculpture museum. Very exhausting but fun day of musuem touring!

more pictures from Day 4

2010-11-05T23:45:00.008-05:00

In front of the Supreme Court

Jodi with our starbucks coffee as we wait in the cold rain for our tour that was actually canceled

a look at the closest we could get to the front of the White House for today

Jodi showing off the Senate only elevator!

Me purchasing my very important umbrella from Target!

Day 4 in D.C.

2010-11-04T20:24:00.008-05:00

Today was a rainy rainy wet day!
So much so that I had to stop at Target and buy my own umbrella!

This morning we waited in the rain for our tour of the White House that never happened. All tours were canceled. They never announced why so it just makes me wonder what came up exactly?! We were very disappointed, but there is hope that it still might work out sometime this week. Keep your fingers crossed!

Here is a picture of the closest we could get to the White House for now.

the back side of the white house (closer to the street)

A picture of us and our cute umbrellas with the capitol building behind us!

We went on an amazing tour giving by Sen Brownback's only intern at this time (who is from Massachusetts!). He gave us the underground tour and since there was just the two of us we got to skip around the big public tours and take private staircases. It was very top secret. Did you know that there is an underground "metro" from the senate buildings to the capitol building? Did you know that there are elevators to be used by senators only? There are a million other fun facts we learned and I of course can not remember to repeat.

Under the capitol dome.

The supreme court

Day 3

2010-11-04T20:09:00.004-05:00

.... in D.C

lazy morning and sore muscle from all that walking....

Then off to Alexandria, Virgina. Where Sara and I visited the very touristy King St and all that it had to offer. We walked on the dock along the Potomac River and ate at a cute seafood place for lunch and then shop, shop, & shop. Really those who know me know I hate to shop but this is tourist shopping and yesterday it was great fun at all the little quiant shops! I will have you know the only thing I bought was some gloves for this cold weather up here from the Ten Thousand Villages store! Here are some photos of the day. The evening was bonding time with her 4 other housemates. Good times!

Me in front of a down town fountain and historical building.

On the dock

a look out on the water

Sara in a chic little boutique just crammed full of fun stuff and already decked out for Christmas.

Sisters in the Metro!

Day 2 in District of Columbia

2010-11-03T10:35:00.010-05:00

So Day 2 starts of with an "early morning" to Jodi's work. She works at a school so we were bombarded with people and election propaganda on our way in. (I will not miss those TV ads either!)I got to meet many of her great co-workers and she her space. She really is in here element there. After some printing of google maps I was off to explore the city on my own. First stop: THE NATIONAL ZOO

It was a very cool place and especially nice that it was free! Some of my favorite animals are seen in these pictures. It was founded in 1889 and designed by the same person who designed Central Park in New York City.

I then explored a bit of the Mount Pleasant neighborhood near Jodi's school. Cute little shops and stores for everything.

My El Salvadorian breakfast/snack!! YUMMY!!!

Jodi and I met for lunch near her other place of work in Adams Morgan neighborhood. We had an amazing Mediterranean meal.

Then I met up with Jodi's friend from college Sara and we went to explore Bethesda. I had to go there because it was mentioned on Bones!! I love that T.V. show! (Thanks for putting up with me Sara.) To top the night off we visited another college friend of Jodi's to see the view from here apartment high rise. Amazing!

Sister week in D.C! Day 1

2010-11-03T10:10:00.006-05:00

So I have decided updating on Portland can wait..... 1) because all my amazing pictures are at my computer at home. 2) because I am currently in Washington D.C. This city just begs to be blogged about!

So this is the start of my 10 day visit to see my sister Jodi who is currently doing Voluntary Service in D.C. For more about her story I will refer you to more reading of her blog!

Monday was flight day. Poor Liam, Nora, & Kellie who have been so nice to take me to the airport a lot recently and have no been able to go with me!! One day!

I flew to Memphis were I hung out longer than expected for maintence delays on the plane here are some cool art pics from the airport. It was hard to be in the same city as Erin and not see her even if it was only a 2 hour window!

I finally made it to D.C and Jodi picked me up and we were off right away to go on a night monument tour with her housemates and supportive staff! Here are a few pictures of that!

Leaving...

2010-10-21T00:26:00.004-05:00

...on a jet plane!

I am super pumped to be in the friendly skies in exactly 14 hours from now! I should be finishing packing and getting some sleep but I just can't seem to settle down tonight. Could it be that I have worked the last 5 nights or that I am procrastinating packing or that I am just to darn excited to contain myself?

I am going to Portland. A little trip that has been in the works a long time. My amazing college roommate Emily and I are flying to see our dear college friend Claudia. I am excited to meet her two little girls. I haven't seen her since I was in her wedding....its been too long. It will be a much needed get away and girl's week-end.

I have never been to Portland so we are packing it all in! Updates later.

Old school college photo.

word block

2010-10-12T17:42:00.003-05:00

In my brain block of words.....I will still share some things I have come across.

a reminder

2010-09-30T02:20:00.001-05:00

I needed this! THANKS FRIEND!

Abdominal Pain

2010-08-10T13:00:00.002-05:00

-Can you tell me what brought you to the ER today?

-The ambulance.

-Why did you call them?

-My stomach hurts. I came to the hospital yesterday for my tooth pain and ya'all gave me these pills. I took one an hour ago and now my stomach hurts.

-Have you had anything to eat today?

-Just candy and that pill. Your pill made my stomach hurt.

Just a little background to this story...the EMS personal had to wait on this patient to take her to the ER so she could finish heating up her BBQ sandwich at Quicktrip a block up the road. Which during my interview was half eaten in her purse. But it was the pill that made her stomach hurt.

Chocolate Eyes

2010-06-15T00:25:00.000-05:00

What have your chocolate eyes seen?

What has your sweet, soft baby skin felt?

Do you know I am here to help you?

Do you know that your Grandma brought you to the ER for help? She doesn't know what else to do. She found bruises...scratches..bumps...that no one can explain. This happened once before and she choose to believe the story that you were just clumbsy. Abuse couldn't happen to you. This time is different...unexplainable. You came to her in the same clothes you left her house in a week and a half ago and dirty. Your dad lives out of town and your mom and her boyfriend just dropped you off at Grandma's house like they did last week and the week before that.

Grandma is concerned and now we are too.

Today I pray you are safe and happy where ever you are.

Riverfest

2010-05-16T22:43:00.001-05:00

I had my first Riverfest patient the other day...

Riverfest the host to Wichita's finest.

looks 60-something year old man tells me his story...I was at riverfest and the rushed to get my food so I wouldn't miss the next band. I ate it too fast but made it in time for the band...(says with a sure smile)... that darn* band had the bass and drums up too loud... my left ear is pounding. Then it made me dizzy and since I ate my food to fast I threw up. Doc you gotta fix this pounding in my ear, it sh0r' does hurt.

(* words subject to change)

P.S. This patient arrived to us in an ambulance straight from Riverfest.

Tornado Warnings

2010-05-14T21:54:00.004-05:00

What a week of weather...storms...storms...storms...

usually I love them but then I realized that was because I am usually in the comfort of my own home. Safe in a comfortable basement watching the radar. This week I have been confined in the concrete walls of the hospital. Work Work Work. In the middle of a tornado warning with sirens going off and the calming hospital operator over the intercom "We are in a tornado warning please move away from windows and towards the lower level." Humans just never cease to amaze me! Despite this the patients keep coming in...and for the smallest things... tooth pain and a rash...really folks? Get to your own shelter.

Wednesday night I was off work by 11pm...pouring rain finally stopped but left its devastation on West street and all around my house. I live on an island when it pours so hard. So after much internal debate and longing for my own bed...I parked poor low-riding-Lola the Corolla 2 blocks away and started hiking. I am sure I was a sight to see..green scrubs...tennis shoes and a white lab coat over my head as the rain started again with random lightening in the sky. I walked in the middle of the street through knee high water. (Good thing I knew not to drive through it!) I think I am going to invest in monster truck tires and pimp my ride!

split lip

2010-03-02T22:43:00.000-06:00

walking into the room I too would have failed a breathalizer.

19 year old kid...drunk...got in a Saturday night fight...looks like he lost

he thought it was just a bloody nose.

poor kid split his lip all the way through

it took me a long time to sew..inside and out...even harder when the intoxicated young man keep trying to talk. (By the way, I am his new best friend. yippee me.)

in the end it looked really good if I don't say so myself. (he won't know it was my first lip to sew) I got compliments from an experienced nurse and my doctor there.

most memorable part: cleaned up and looking better and put back together..the kid says to me "so doctor when can I drink again?"

stunned with the question (and being called doctor),. I was silent. The fast thinking nurse said "at least 2 more years when your 21" and like a good nurse practitioner I piped in "maybe you should think about never drinking again"

Sad Closing Day

2010-02-28T22:27:00.003-06:00

The Olympics are over.
Sad day.
Now what will I do with all my spare time?
I don't think I can wait two years!

Olympic Obsession

2010-02-14T21:25:00.001-06:00

I guess it started when I was little and dreamed to be a gold medalist…then I dreamed to be an Olympian..…and now I dream just to attend the events someday... funny how our dreams change… probably just reality setting in. One day I will travel and chant U.S.A with the crowds and be there for historical moments.

Those silly bios…they get me every time. I am just suck in to the lives and struggles of these amazing athletes. They have trained for this small moment in time for years. I can’t help but cheer them on. (I also think that any inspiring Olympic commercial narrated by Morgan Freeman makes me want to use my VISA that I don’t even have.)

Thanks to all who made the third Olympic party a success…what a fun time to eat food from around the world and watch the athletes perform with great friends!

Last count U.S.A is ahead with 6 medals. Go Team U.S.A!

This year I cheer from my couch but some year…some year soon you’ll see me there.

darn song

2010-02-07T23:07:00.000-06:00

Come sleep come...

why won't you rescue me?

Instead.....
"YEAHAAAA YEAHA PARTY IN THE U.S.A"

Darn that catchy tune! Darn those lyrics!
Darn that Miley Cyrus!
Darn my racing mind!

Thanks ERIN! Thanks a lot!!!!
Good night....I can only hope!

too cute not to share

2010-01-30T22:49:00.000-06:00

I may be way behind in my youtube video watching but this was too cute not to share. Thanks to a co-worker for pointing it out to me!

Enjoy!

Pink Glove Dance

Anyone up for making our own hospital version?!?

Do's and Don'ts

2010-01-21T22:36:00.000-06:00

A few things I have learned in just a month working in the ER....

Do come in to the ER right away when you lose vision in your eye and have a headache.
Don't wait and then drive yourself in.

Do tell the truth.
Don't lie. I have records and ways of finding out.

Do come to the ER for emergencies.
Don't come in the ER because you stubbed your toe 14 hours ago and it hurts. Then tell me you can't really walk because of the pain but in the next sentence tell me you walked to the ER cause it is only 5 blocks away.

Do try Tylenol and Motrin for your pain and fever at home.
Don't overdose on Tylenol or Motrin.

Do try to call your own doctor first.
Don't think that if you have had this pain for years I will be able to cure.

Do be courteous to ALL staff
Don't talk on your cell phone or txt when I am trying to help you. You came here for help. Its an EMERGENCY remember.

Imagine

2010-01-10T14:49:00.000-06:00

Can you imagine innocently wanting to start some laundry one lazy afternoon and stepping in to a puddle at the bottom of your stairs? Brand new carpet mind you! Can you imagine the panic....crawling around on all fours to find the source. Drip Drip Drip there it was ..... the water heater ...

I would like to thank Mr T and my brother for coming over to help control the situation. If only it ended there.

Imagine a week....5 whole days.... with out hot or even warm water!

I would like to thank Kellie, Jeremy & Liam for letting me interupt their family routine and letting me shower daily!

I am the proud owner of a brand new water heater and all the upgrades required to fix it!

I will try never to take hot water for granted again. Neither should you.

The End.

My First Day

2009-12-09T11:36:00.000-06:00

I survived.

opps its been a while.
I write this as I procrastinate my studies....
studies? you say. aren't you done with school?!
Ohhh yes! I am done with the school (jump for joy)...but never done learning. Where to start? I have so far to go!

Dec 7th was my first day as an NP in the ER. Its hard to tell by one day.
I think I will like it.
Variety. Challenging. Adrenaline.
It is a steep learning curve and I am praying not to fall off of it!

"Ready for practice"

2009-05-09T01:07:00.000-05:00

Oh my....can't believe end of semester is here. Today I completed my last shift in the ER for clinicals. Wow! So many things I have learned and so many things I have seen and done..... I feel that I could write posts and posts, but really I am not that good of a story teller. Besides it would be violating several laws to give you many details anyway. My preceptor this semester has made all the difference. I have been challenged and at the same time been encouraged and mentored. This semester has been a steep learning curve in the right direction.

I received unbelieveable marks on my professional patient final. I don't think I have EVER scored that high on a test (at least in Grad school for sure! Ha). I was in shock. What a turn around from last semester if you remember. Looking at the grade my only question was "Are you sure this is correct?" Reading further I saw the comment written at the bottom of the page "Ready for practice". Once again my only question..."are you sure?!"

I do have one more final to take next week and then I get to "graduate". (Walk across a stage and not shake anyone's hand to keep me swine flu free. WSU is ridiculous and we call ourselves educated health professionals!) My graduation will be kept simple in the comforts of my home to REALLY keep me safe from any possible swine flu. Family, food, and friends sounds like a better time to me anyway!!!

funny

2009-05-05T22:34:00.000-05:00

I came to tell you ......

but I guess its not that important.

P.S. !Feliz cinco de mayo todos!

an update & winter jam

2009-03-02T15:59:00.000-06:00

Thanks for your prayers... It is amazing to me how God works through people continually and that people even read my random postings! My friend's husband is home and recovering quite well.

Who knew there were so many Jesus Freaks in Wichita...or came to Wichita Saturday night for WinterJam. Standing out side in freezing conditions and bitter cold wind for about an hour and still barely got seats. I would like to publically thank Holly for allowing me to borrow socks that allowed me to keep my toes from frostbite! It was an awesome experience to seat in a packed out crowd (more than 10,000 people) and jam along to many different artist. This year I went for Bradon Health...my future fiance!!! Such a good singer...such a good guitarist...so cute and who knew he could dance? Right Cara?! HA!

Me: (txt with picture of Brandon) Here is my future fiance Brandon Heath!

Mom: Is he Christian?

Me: MOM he is a Christian singer. I know you have heard him...

Mom: I think I like your taste in men!

Francesca Batttistelli and TobyMac were just added bonuses to the night!

prayer request

2009-02-23T16:53:00.000-06:00

Life got shook up for a good family today. A good friend at work had her husband admitted to the hospital today with breathing problems. Not like she doesn't have enough on her plate....two young kids....working nights part-time...Dad just diagnosised with cancer and starting treatments...family stuff.....and now an ICU admission for her husband as he struggles for air.

Prayers for healing physcially of course but this family has been on my heart spiritually for a long time as well. Help me be a shining light through which they only see the true way and true comfort.

annual review

2009-02-20T16:00:00.000-06:00

..so I had my annual year review...sort of an impromptive thing when I cuaght my boss in her office as I was leaving work that morning... a full twelve hour night shift complete now sit in a comfy chair in a room stuffy room and listen to an evaluation of your performance. fun stuff. Lucky for me good things just thought I would share...on the section 'ways to improve' my boss wrote "Go full-time again" HA.
We can't all be perfect.

my hassle

2009-02-15T00:33:00.000-06:00

grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr..........I dislike internet not working when you need it. I dislike certain company technicians wasting 45 of my precious cell phone minutes to fix their problem. I hate not knowing the source of the problem...the modem? the router? the computer? I despise people that make me feel stupid about things I do not know.

I realize I rely too much on the net to make my connections in life and watch all the important shows I miss on TV. Maybe I should take this as a lesson from God. What could my internet not working teach me? Maybe patience, maybe to focus more on people not computers, maybe to be in the world and not of it, maybe priorities, maybe....hum.

I would argue that online banking and bill pay is a must for me. I would also argue that I have online assignments and lectures posted and don't forget the timed quizzes to take...... so....FIX my internet!

When it is working I will post this! Why waste good blog venting even if here is no connection to the world wide web and I desperately need an update..........HA!

Back in school...

2009-01-28T21:04:00.000-06:00

.....and already way behind!!

Seriously more than 400 pages behind! Amazing when you think school has only been in session one week! Do professors really think you can fit it all in somewhere...not just the time but the brain space?!! Honestly!

I am seriously the master of procrastination! In the first week I left an online exam til the night before (and SOME reading too!) all this despite all my lofty goals and good intentions for a new semester.
This is the last semester before graduation....it is sink or swim time and I have come too far now to sink! Let's do this!

where did it all go?

2009-01-17T13:11:00.000-06:00

So I got a statement in the mail today that reads:

Capitol Federal Savings Annual Loan Statement for 2008

So as I glance it over I realize over the course of the entire year with all my on-time-monthly-mortgage-payments (which FYI are over $5oo/month) I have one knocked the principle balance down by $935.16 in a whole year!!!!! Don't even get me started on the fluctuating escrow balance....what ever that is!!!! Incredible....what happened to all that money?

I blame the government!

the obvious and the not

2009-01-14T09:27:00.000-06:00

the obvious....so the mortuary came to pick up a body last night.... nothing usual but this mortuary employs... the grim reeper himself.... tall 6'6"-ish, lanky, old, smelled of years of chain smoking, long black trench coat, black hat, gray/white hair and beard....it was if it wasn't already obvious enough what he was there to do. God bless those people.

...last night I lived an episode of ER....true facts too graphic for public blog but saving a life did indeed happen....twice.

the not.....people's reactions, emotional status, and expectations.

forgiveness

2008-12-05T12:59:00.000-06:00

Why is the hardest person to forgive yourself?

AND

The hardest thing to do is change?

I passed!

2008-11-19T19:33:00.000-06:00

I updated my facebook status to shout my praises at passing my master's level Comprehensive Nursing Exam! Woot! Woot!

However I feel I should explain more to those that care to read about my endeavors to be a nurse practitioner.

I have passed WSU's comprehensive exam...like a dissertation or theists of sorts. It was a four hour all essay exam and it focused on nursing theorists, research, and advanced practice issues. (All my absolute favorite topics! NOT!) I still have my remaining classes, finals, and clinicals to complete.... I am far from done. After graduation (May) and then completion of clinicals (July)...I can then proceed to take the national board certifications. So many more prayers still need to come my way.

This semester is close to ending and I look forward to Christmas break. I feel that I have learned so much but there is always so much more to learn. In January my new clinical site will in the ER and I am very excited about it!

So any questions people? Clear as mud? That about sums up my program!

season opener

2008-10-28T22:16:00.000-05:00

This site at Dillions today makes me soooo happy!
I look forward to one of these in my stocking every year!

Today I was more "house-hold" productive than ever...clinicals all day...then grocery shopping..then mowing the backyard and then mowing the front yard...making Birkey style rice. yummy!

Amazing what all can get done to avoid homework! Ha!

NON-

2008-10-22T23:11:00.000-05:00

I got a NON-flattering and NON-fixable hole in my favorite jeans!

STINK!

Pumpkin Party

2008-10-17T11:37:00.000-05:00

Yeah for pumpkins, parties, fun, food, and friends!

falling GPA

2008-10-15T18:23:00.000-05:00

Yikes I hate microbiology and it hates me as evident by my scores this exam! Prof just thought he would throw that section in "for fun"! I still don't see it in the study guide. grrrr I hate that! My dislike for microbiology stems back to an undergrad class at 7am in a stinky lab where the crazy prof would say "morning microbiologist" and I would always respond "I am a (soon-to-be-) nurse" He never liked the nursing students. Well I take that back...he seemed to enjoy torchering us.

Do people even look at GPAs anymore? It is my last year at school...my goal is to not focus on the numbers anyway... it is not about the numbers..its about the knowledge. AMEN.

If I am speaking honestly..my gpa can only fall..... (i know i know...I heard a lot of people throw up at little right then, but it matters to me...or it used to matter to me....remember I have a new goal!)

Thanks for all your prayers during the rough spots. I made it through and frankly I am not looking back!

Now it is time to celebrate the pumpkins and pumpkin season!!! Yippee

prayer please

2008-10-08T20:36:00.000-05:00

thanks for all volunteering to help me post videos! HA! maybe you all don't know how to do it either!

I have a major exam for my master's program this Friday. I have to pass it to graduate and I would rather not go through it again! (if I can help it!) Imagine writing essays for 6 hours on unknown graduate nursing topics. Sounds like a day of fun for sure. blah

Sunday an online "quiz" is due.

Monday a professor is coming to evaluate me in the clinical setting. No way to be prepared for that! Silent judge.

Wednesday I have a midterm.

I don't think I could handle much more....i know.

don't vote

2008-10-03T12:10:00.000-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olpCyDA4kYA

P.S. Someday someone will have to teach me how to post things as video until then...enjoy the links!

October already!

2008-10-01T11:48:00.001-05:00

Wow... I can't not blog on the first day of October. I love this month...the cool weather... the changing leaves (as long as I don't have to rake them!)...and most of all pumpkins!!!!!
Yummy! I have already started the pumpkin pie baking and soon to make the pumpkin bread. This time of year the cravings for such treats are overwhelming.

Hard not to get overwhelmed by the amount of knowledge to know and learn in the medical field. I think Nurse Practitioners are great but I am right now somewhat disappointed in my education. I have a year to go so hopefully it will get better and better. Maybe is just disappointment in myself and the vast amount of learning I have yet to go. I felt similar feelings after I just started as a brand new nurse. The school and only semi prepare you for the real world challenges ahead.

My beef right now: You come to the health care provider and complain of a sore throat....do you want to hear about nursing theorists or controversial issues in the healthcare or abstract comcepts ......no you don't...but that is what my professors are testing me over right now...in the form of a 6 hour essay test....you come because you hurt and you want a cure...you want antibiotics...which you really probably don't need cause it is just a virus...but I will give you a script because that is what makes you happy and "what you pay for" Crazy medical world!

to do homework?

2008-09-21T20:08:00.000-05:00

I should do some homework.....

but I will make banana bread and watch the 60th Emmy Awards instead.

P.S I have a apple tree with tons of apples. Too bad they mostly have bad spots. Next year I will spray and enjoy.

school is here

2008-09-14T15:28:00.000-05:00

Wow my last post was a month ago...sorry... life happens.

School started and it took off from there!

life events since: Olympics party, severely sprained ankle, cut down to part-time at work, friend hang out time, floods, a wedding, but mostly clinical time and class time take a lot of energy and time.

I just forget that being a true student really required alot mentally and emotionally and it can be physically demanding with the schedule. (maybe that is just my schedule right now) The balance of working days and nights is exhausting. Where is the balance? I try to remain positive and think...it is only a year left!

Congrats Kristin and Matt (now newlyweds)!!

The Denver Adventure...

2008-07-22T22:20:00.000-05:00

So on a last free summer week-end I made a little road trip to Denver...here are some pics...

on the road for eights hours......but headed toward the beautiful mountains kept me going......

Emily at her favorite local Mexican resturante..... I loved the Coke in a bottle...it is so from Mexico......

hiking in the Red Rocks....

out to eat on Mead Street.....

Sunday was a long and hot day but amazing. We joined more than 50,000 music fans at the Mile High Musical Festival in 100 degree heat....in this picture John Mayer was singing behind us....

John looking good on the large screen.....we were a few people back....

...taking time to realize that Coby Caillat was performing...

....Martin Sexton gave a great performace.....

a close up look at Dave Matthews..................

my actual view between people's heads...........

a look a the Dave Matthews Band live.........what a great show.....

Emily Gingerich, Bethany (Blough) Simpson and baby boy to be, and Me
It was awesome to catch up with my great friend Emily and get a peek into her life in Denver. Thanks to Em and her roommates Andrea and Kelli for letting me crash at their house for the week-end. It was a perfect week-end!!!

The here and now

2008-07-21T01:44:00.000-05:00

I love the blue hymnal. I didn't realize how much I missed it until I attend First Mennonite in Denver this morning! Ahhh to be amongst the Mennonites again. I met several people from college that are now in Denver so that was a bonus. I heart the Mennonite game!

So I have been updating you on Thailand but much other stuff is going on in my life. Some highlights include and are not limited to....softball games and championship winners....pool time at Holly's....bonding over Chinese/Japanese and I Survived a Japanese Game Show...Worlds of Fun (need I say more!)....

this post is for the here and now.... here I am in Denver. On a little get away week-end to visit Emily (my long lost college roomie!) What a great time so far and I am blessed to have another day or two to go! Saturday we got it started right with crafts (making a pinata for a housemate's birthday party) then eating true Mexican at a local joint, Mead St., 16th Street Mall, FREE cotton candy, FREE popcorn, Dark Knight. That was all packed in to Saturday.

Sunday was reserved for the Mile High Music Festival. AWESOME!! It was reported that there were more than 40,000 people there and it seemed like more..5 stages and tons of amazing artists. The highlights included John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Brett Dennen, Martin Sexton, Rodrigo & Gabriela, Clobie Caillat, and Flobots. Just to name a few. The pictures are on my camera but I do have the proof and some are pretty sweet if I do say so myself!

Right now the here and now is a pretty sweet gig!

Thailand pictures cont.

2008-07-19T10:25:00.001-05:00

a look at the islands and our snorkeling day!

Ronald McDonald in Bangkok!

some sights around the national palace

Summer Time

2008-07-16T07:06:00.000-05:00

Why does summer go by so fast? Can't we just strech it out a little longer...especially this one! I start clinicals Aug 4 and I am oober anxious.

As Anne of Green Gables reminds me....the sun will continue to rise and set whether I fail at geometry (school/clinicals) or not. Enough of school... I am still in summer and must live each day to the fullest!

THAILAND!

Wow! What an adventure. I was there one short week in June but what an amazing time. Photos can tell it better so I will get them posted!

a look at our bungaloo on Ko Lanta! so beautiful and inexpensive!!!

Our pool and beach at the resort!! AMAZING!!!

riding on the island on a tuk tuk!

elephant trekking and hiking to a waterfall was just awesome!

I thought the next day couldn't get better but we went snorkeling on several different islands! Life got so much better!! ahhh!

We haven't even made it to off the islands to Bangkok for the rest of our trip of shopping in the markets and Thai massages and food food food!!!! maybe I'll post those later....

GC Friends

2008-06-10T15:07:00.000-05:00

Blast from the past. I live on campus in group houseing for my senior year. East Hall was one of my college highlights. 6 girls upstairs and 6 guys in the basement...equals adventure and good times.

This past Saturday my friend Alyssa stopped by to visit! (She lived in East Hall as well.) We had lunch and great conversations. She is now a nurse in Chicago. Anyways I love catching up with old friends so I thought I would share my joy.

I probably wont post for a while. I leave tomorrow for Thailand. Pray for safe travels and good health!

catch-up

2008-06-07T01:05:00.000-05:00

So here it goes...

I passed my two grad classes this past semester. Only three clinicals to go and a lot more stress... Woot! Didn't do to shabby on the grade portion too but who looks at that? I just hope to remember all the information for clinicals and the real world. It is impossible to know everything but being in the medical profession you are expected to. How is that fair?

I am done with summer pre-session! I waited my whole grad school for that class. We learned suturing and casting! I think suturing will be come my new favorite past time. It is an art, like crossstich. Ha. The cast saw is loud and frightening but now I am at least experienced before I cut yours off some day. (Some day I will learn how to up load pictures from my phone and show you my sweet hot pink leg cast I recieved that day!)

My brother is now married. CRAZY! Amy is now my new sister and we are blessed to have her join our family. The wedding was beautiful. I will attempt to upload pictures!

Liam Jeremy is the second newest addition to the family (before Amy). Kellie and Jeremy had a beautiful baby boy on May 20th. I love his name and I love him!

I got to visit Lindsay and Adam in Kansas City after the craziness of finals. I was honored to meet the newest addition to their family...Katelyn Rae....so precious! I had to include her little Zoolander pose!

I purchased a new cell phone but it is so much more than that! It is a Palm Treo and I am super excited about it! If only I new how to use it. This will come with practice I am sure and I plan to read the entire manual.

Wednesday I leave for my trip of a life time. I am going to Thailand for a vacation...more on that another day!

The light..

2008-04-19T15:28:00.000-05:00

....at the end of the tunnel.

Speaking of the semester coming to another welcome end! The light is shining through the dark abyss...that light is not only getting stronger but it is becoming blinding. I am not close to done nor ready to face the finals that are awaiting me just weeks away. YIKES! Why can I not get my butt in gear?

Could it be the endless opportunities of stuff to do in Wichita? or Episodes of ER or OC? or work?

How about laziness? Yep that about sums it up. Natural procrastination. I was born for it.

Spring Break '08! WOOT!

2008-02-26T00:14:00.000-06:00

So this week we celebrate Goshen College Spring Break '08! WOOT! (The woot or woo or yippeee must follow this phrase at all times...in print or verbage!)

So this week-end was the family wedding. Weddings are fun and always interesting. My family cracks me up and never ceases to surprise me. I guess my parents never get out and have never been to a wedding before. My mom is facinated almost obsessed really by groom's cakes! I guess Justin asked her to research this subject for him and research she did. Basically memorized the first link that comes up on google. (This technical step is also an amazing leap for her! Dad possible could have been the one to help with that!)

My dad says at the reception..."We are ready to spring from here as soon as we get Justin (the bestman) loose" Sounds like a jail break! G-ma and pa were getting antsy!

My other fav was Dad again...."Justin is going to have to give a few words or a small speech or something..."
Me- "Dad, you mean a toast?"
Dad- "oh yeah that sounds right"
Anne (my housemate)-"Have your parents ever been to a wedding?"

Grandma was awesome when she tried to eat the table decorations. She thought is was a really hard mint....nope sorry Grandma...in her defense it was on the cake table.. but alas.....not a mint! It was a white stone.
Back to the Spring Break '08! WOOT! It is sister time 24/7! So far it has been great. We went to 27 Dresses. Cute! Then we road tripped it old school style with the Birkeissens again (Jeremy & Kellie & unborn baby & Justin & Jodi & I) "the kids" took a road trip with NO PARENTS to see the Erin at the wonderful Sterling College Campus! Fun times were had out on the town of Lyons as well! I am exhausted and it has only been one day of fun!
I wish vacations never ended!

Oh Heath......

2008-01-23T22:37:00.000-06:00

.....no words can describe it all.

Ice: 1 vs. Melisa:0

2008-01-23T08:57:00.000-06:00

So I have to dish on myself as embarrassing as it is..........

Last week-end, I hurt my back...I know... I KNOW...how could this happen.... I am in the best shape of my life and only 25 years old!!!! HA! (No really I am 25! I promise!) Anyways. I don't exactly know what I did to it..it probably was the massive patient (176kg which in American wt is about 390 lbs) that was getting moved around all night and lots of strenous CPR was done. People just don't realize how much work it all takes. Luckily at a hospital there are lots of people ready to help out. Anyhoooo... my back started feeling sore and long story short I was flat on my back by the morning, unable to move with horrible spasms that just took my breath away. PAIN in the extreme form. My wonderful roommate was a lifesaver she had her mother see me and eventually took me to the Urgent Care where I recieved amazing drugs! It took a couple days but finally I am back up on my feet ready to go again. Being on you back and in extreme pain for several days really makes one appreciate EVERYTHING we take for granted!

Finally doing better and at least off pain pills a week besides the ocasional Ibuprofen...then the ice comes! Ha! So it I slept all day Monday and was getting ready for work and I decided to go check the mail..(now the intutitive people are laughing because you realize that Monday was MLK Day and no mail was delivered so this whole story becomes even more tragic!) Well I took one step out the garage and and blam fell on my right knee HARD and then on my hands and knees began to slide down the driveway!! I sure I was a funny looking site. I was first able to look up and see that to my knowledge no neighbors witnessed this event! Thank goodness! (Isn't that fun that I remember looking around first then the pain!) My knee! My back! My knee! My back! I do have to tell you that I did make it to the mailbox and of course had no mail, but I made it! Then I made it through a night of work but never was my bed such a sweet release in the morning! All is well again with some Ibuprofen and life goes on, cautious of the bad back and sore knee! ha! Woe is me!

All Things New

2008-01-16T22:56:00.000-06:00

God I need you to make all things new!
New attitude.
New call.
New back.
New fire.
New excitment.
New look.
New outlook.
New joy.
New discipline.
New self-control.
New life song.
New love.
New dedication.
New devotion.
New service.
New study.
New passion.
New life in You, with You, and through You.

Merry Christmas Me!

2007-12-14T17:20:00.000-06:00

You can't tell but I am typing to you from a new computer. If you didn't heard I "fried the mother board" of my old laptop! Who knew you had a mother board in your computer and that it is so vital to the existence of a computer....any hoo... it broke the week before finals no less. Thankfully I had saved all my files for school on a separate disk! Let that be a lessson to you all. Save. Save. Save.

I had been researching them for a couple weeks before I made my decision, which really isn't bad for me! Right?!

I purchased a Gateway M-1617 Notebook (I only tell you this now so your first reactions can be made out of my site.)...it has lots of features that I am excited about included a 1.3 webcam that I haven't figured out how to use yet but should be fun. My wireless is working without a problem which is wonderful! I couldn't package a computer online for the price I got so I am happy for now. I have to remember there will always be bigger and better deals coming along! Oh well. I almost let my ego get in the way and purchase a 17" screen but I came to my senses and put my money in twice as much memory and hard drive (as consumer reports mentioned!). Whew, close one!

I am pumped to have the Geek Squad available to me at a moments notice as well! Today my assistant Matt was hot so there you go. Hot Geeks! ha!

I would like to thank my roommate for dealing with me and my computer needs during the time of my transition! Let me know how I can return the favor at any time. Loveya.

Happy Birthday Grandpa B! Love ya!

I am a nerd...

2007-12-11T23:57:00.000-06:00

so many things to blog about but only one thing on my mind....
WHEN WILL THIS SEMESTER EVER END?!?!?!

So the horrible weather got in the way. Not that I wouldn't mind a snow day, but not at the end of semester and not for the final! Enough stress at the end of semester no need to delay that! For real!

First the roads...those weathermen...They freak out of the slightest of events. The roads never even iced in Wichita! The roads were safe for all the kids to jump in the rain puddles as they passed the long hours free from school. Don't get me wrong I am happy for the small children and their hard-working teachers (shout out Holly!). But WSU I expected better! During finals week no less.

Second..I guess the weather wouldn't have really mattered in my situation. My professor had an unexpected death in the family and informed the class she will not be in to give the test the rest of this week. This only creates a problem if you fly out of town Saturday and will be gone for the week. I have planned this vacation to Arizona with my family for months. I am not missing out on sunny Arizona and family and friends, especially for a Patho final. Is it kosher to call the Prof about my schedule dilemma in her time of sorrow? I am praying to get something worked out this week! Any time.. I will work all night then take the test even. I am not complaining. I hate to drag this mess any longer! Can a Prof fail me cause I can't make the make-up date of the final? Will I lose my spot in the nursing program??? Ahhh...headache!!

Third... I have never have met more of a nerd then myself! Who gets so worked up about a delayed final? For real!

THE END!

August is here

2007-08-02T13:16:00.000-05:00

So its been a while......yikes...moving on...

Jodi is back in the States. Back from SST! Brings back my own memories of return and culture shock. Mom and Dad are spoiling away! Laundry and El Rodeo, oh my! I get to see her on Saturday so I am pumped! Actually Saturday the whole family comes and we wisk away to the magical place of Colorado.....Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp....for a fun filled week at family camp! I can't wait. We will stay in cabins this year, no tents. Amie is along for the ride. So that makes us six.

August means school....just can't avoid the thought much longer. I paid my tution and for all my books in one day! Ouch that was a BIG hit! I am taking Patho and Drug this semester....yep those are expensive and BIG books. I throughly researched and bought them online for the best prices deals. True Mennonite shopper.

A bridge shouldn't just fall down and yet it did yesterday in Minneapolis... my prayers are with the families and victums. We think we have problems in our lives and then stories like this come along....humbling.

Table Rock Lake

2007-06-30T01:25:00.000-05:00

I love the lake!

We had a marvelous time! Laying out at the dock, sunbathing, swimming, canoeing, fishing, discovering Tessie (the lake monster), singing, listening to Alice, being buzzed, skinny dipping, rain dancing, rain jumping, crawdad catching, laughing, road tripin'!

What a blast!

The Lake

2007-06-22T01:22:00.000-05:00

Off for the week-end to that big lake in Missouri....you know Table Rock Lake!

The plan is not to move from my water raft all week-end and soak up the wonderful sun!

ROAD TRIP!

SPECIAL!

2007-06-22T00:44:00.000-05:00

Any one heard of 38 Special? Well me neither before tonight really but thanks to my fun coworkers I went to their live concert! What a fun time...the alcohol helped...

I was prepared for the drinking and the biker look... but not all the mohawks. Wow to see so many in one place! Wow! I was also innocent to the true effects of second smoke and the hint of weed in that smoke! I think I got some what high... nahh...I imagine it different.

The concert itself was a blast. My coworkers are crazy but if my favorite band was still touring after 30 years and rocking like they did when they started then I would go crazy too!

Rocking in to the night! Rockin' into the night!

http://www.38special.com/

Yo Bro!

2007-06-20T17:54:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to my Lil' Bro!!

Wow 24 years old!! We are getting so old!

Happy Happy Birthday!!!!

hello world

2007-06-20T03:04:00.000-05:00

What are the risks? What are the benefits?

Why should it not go public!?

So, HELLO WORLD!

Top friends

2007-06-13T15:43:00.002-05:00

No better place than a blog to admit to my vices...and one of those is definetly facebook....all the networking, posting, messaging, innocent stalking, pictures......you get it..... and I am sure you do it too. I can't say facebook has been all bad. I have been able to get in touch with high school friends I had lost track of for years. In one case my best friend in fifth grade from Tucson found me on facebook! Funtimes and lots of catching up!
But I have some beef with facebook! I long for the orginal facebook....the one without advertisements, movies, songs............and especially without TOP FRIENDS!!! This is the most ridiculous thing I have heard of......really it is only cause for disater...how can you rank your friends? Each relationship is different and special in its own way. This topic came up at East Hall one time when Alyssa shared her concept of "tiered" friends. Anyone besides me remember these conversations? Best friends = First tier, not so best friends = second tier........so which tier are the enemies? (Of course you are so loveable you probably do not have any!) I remember dissing the concept and yet secretly wishing I would be rank somewhere on the high side!
Am I the only one that sees this "Top Friends" as a recipe for disater??!!!

True colors

2007-06-12T05:14:00.000-05:00

Yikes...so it is already 3 days after the blog started and I am not keeping up as well as planned...but here is my rationale: I just don't want to overwhelm you with my wisdom and thoughts to early in the game....its is like dating you don't show your true colors for about 3 months and then let your true colors fly!

So the word meandering just struck my fancy....really I don't know how valid of a word it is but my new re-found infatuation is Wikipedia.... what a gold mine of information but do beware anyone can post on there so it may not all be the most accurate information. Take a look at the word meander though for instance...I think it describes my life to a T right now....try to go the straight and narrow path like the stream and the world gets in the way and causes it to bend and well.....just meander. That is life right now and I plan to enjoy every part of my meandering!

to do

2007-06-10T00:38:00.000-05:00

So after alot of thought and consideration, I decided it was time to move up and on in the world and start a blog. Sorry, xanga just wasn't cutting it any more. I have so many people to thank for helping me move on in life!

I don't know exactly what I am going to do with this blog yet, but I figure I can make it up as I go along. Probably just give you links to read cooler blogs than mine (to be introduced later) or give you important medical advice and update.

I only hope I can live up to all the hopes and dreams that go in to a blog. What can I say....it was on my list of things to do.