a two-year-old can be an ANGEL two days in a row?! (or, make that THREE days in a row please!)
My "little one" was awake sometime before 7:30. I woke up a few times before that, and let her talk in her port-a-crib for a little while before getting up. I turned on the light, threw in a few more toys, and hopped in the shower. We ate breakfast and were at the park before 9:00. We stopped at the grocery store on our walk back home and then at a garage sale. It was three houses up the street, and we actually went there three times! I had never met the family, but they look to be near my age and have three kids (go figure...who knew?! I'm obviously not a very good neighbor! Now they know a single pediatric nurse lives three doors down!). I bought quite a few things, including some sippy cups (at the grocery store I bought 2 for $6 and they were selling theirs for 25 cents each! I'm definitely returning those cups!). I bought an infant car seat for $10 and a bouncy seat for $5. I have been doing a LOT of research of things like that, including looking on "craigslist". I think car seats are kind of difficult to buy used, so I was nervous about doing that. However, I have seen this family, and it looks like it has been taken care of. I'm excited about my purchases (and, they "fit" with everything else I have bought--the stroller and port-a-crib are navy blue with cows, the car seat is navy blue with stars, and the bouncy seat is navy blue gingham!)
We went and "helped" my mom while she did some yard work (weeding and planting...we watered!). She went down for a nap around 1:30 and got up a little after 3. We played in the basement for a while, then went to a graduation party. She was SO cute there, talking to everyone. She is SUCH a friendly girl and has the most striking blue eyes (I wish I could take a picture, but since she is in foster care, that is probably not a good idea...I COULD try to just take a picture of her eyes, but am not sure if I can do that). After that, we met up with my friend and her husband for dinner at Applebees. They ended up sitting by her, and I was "inside" the booth. So, she held their hands while we prayed and continued to randomly shout "Amen", especially whenever she touched one of their hands. It was ADORABLE! We are all pretty chatty adults, so she did GREAT sitting through all of that talking! I think it was after 8:00 by the time we dropped them back off at the hospital. My friend is leaving at 5:30 AM to go home for a week. I got a picture with her...maybe I will post it "mid-week" when I am missing our daily text-messaging!
I decided to "take a chance" and bring her to my friend's house for her Open House. I realized that it was VERY close to bed time, but figured we could leave whenever. She did better than I could have imagined, but I could tell when she was tired. That is when we said our good-byes :o) She actually didn't fall asleep until about 10:15. I'm not sure how late she will sleep tomorrow...we did a LOT of outdoor activities today, but maybe that is what she is used to (me, on the other hand...not so much and I am TIRED!). We didn't go to the wedding or the reception, but I guess when you have a kid, sometimes you can't do everything, right?! I'll have to get a gift and/or send a card. I think taking her to church may not be a great idea, but I suppose there is no hurt in trying. We have a couple parties we can attend again tomorrow...that means there will be other people around to help me entertain her :o)
Alright, better go to bed. Early to bed for "mommies", right?! Yeah, right, only when you are mom to a "borrowed child"! Good night!
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Friday, May 30, 2008
Really?! Again?!
Seriously, it was MY turn to float AGAIN today! (The fact that there were four nurses who have been there long enough they don't have to float anymore didn't help!) I had to go BACK to the adult cardiac floor. Last time I went there, I had my student with me. She is what kept me from crying. Today, I think I was just annoyed that I was there and that kept the tears away! Taking care of adults is DEFINITELY not my thing! What do you do with a 300+ pound elderly woman who doesn't want to move at all? Good thing I was only there today because I let her sit in a chair all day long (that is pretty awful nursing care considering that's how people get VERY nasty bed sores...hopefully one day of that won't do any damage...). Another patient was just a couple years older than my dad, but he looked more like my grandfather. I guess what he has been through the past six months must have aged him. His kids are younger than I am...that is really sad to me. My other patient was in her late 60s. She was so sweet, but for some reason a grown woman with a "tummy ache" seems equally as sad, or more sad, than a five-year-old with the same issues. Being an "adult nurse" in a hospital is pretty much as sad as being a "pediatric nurse" in a hospital. I guess that's why God made people to be adult nurses just like He made people to be pediatric ones :o)
The good part of my "float" was that I was in one of the other towers of the hospital (okay, so typically being so far away from your "home unit" is not a good thing!). My friend was working two floors above me, so I had lunch with her. It also was kind of nice that everyone was feeling sorry for me having to float from pediatrics (even though no one could do anything to make it better!). I did miss "my people", and by the time I go back to my floor next Wednesday, it will have been NINE days since I saw some of my "faves"!
I picked up my "borrowed child" at 8:30. She played for a little while, we read a few books, we rocked, and then I put her to bed. She talked and sang in the crib until about 10:00! Unfortuately, I'm thinking that doesn't necessarily mean she will sleep in...kids probably don't work like that! SO, I probably should think about heading to bed early so I can shower before she is up and ready to go! We have LOTS of options for our day tomorrow. There is a wedding at 1:30, a reception at 5; a graduation party from 4-8, an open house from 6-?; my friend is leaving to go home early Sunday morning, so I would like to say good-bye since I won't see her for at least nine days (that is "nothing" compared to some of my other friends, but we talk nearly every day, so it will be different!). We could go to the zoo, to the park, to the children's museum, to the botanical gardens...so many choices! Since my house is still not completely "kid-proof", spending as little time as possible inside here is a good idea :o)
Okay, time for bed. Good night!
The good part of my "float" was that I was in one of the other towers of the hospital (okay, so typically being so far away from your "home unit" is not a good thing!). My friend was working two floors above me, so I had lunch with her. It also was kind of nice that everyone was feeling sorry for me having to float from pediatrics (even though no one could do anything to make it better!). I did miss "my people", and by the time I go back to my floor next Wednesday, it will have been NINE days since I saw some of my "faves"!
I picked up my "borrowed child" at 8:30. She played for a little while, we read a few books, we rocked, and then I put her to bed. She talked and sang in the crib until about 10:00! Unfortuately, I'm thinking that doesn't necessarily mean she will sleep in...kids probably don't work like that! SO, I probably should think about heading to bed early so I can shower before she is up and ready to go! We have LOTS of options for our day tomorrow. There is a wedding at 1:30, a reception at 5; a graduation party from 4-8, an open house from 6-?; my friend is leaving to go home early Sunday morning, so I would like to say good-bye since I won't see her for at least nine days (that is "nothing" compared to some of my other friends, but we talk nearly every day, so it will be different!). We could go to the zoo, to the park, to the children's museum, to the botanical gardens...so many choices! Since my house is still not completely "kid-proof", spending as little time as possible inside here is a good idea :o)
Okay, time for bed. Good night!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Thank Goodness!
When my alarm went off at 5:30 and I still hadn't received "the call" to see if I wanted to stay home, I nearly went into "panic mode" wondering how I could possibly make it through a 12-hour shift on less than five hours of sleep. Thank GOODNESS the phone rang 5 minutes later! So, in bed I stayed until nearly 10:00.
I ate breakfast and drank my coffee VERY slowly. Then, I finally decided that I needed to use this day off to do the things I didn't do yesterday or the day before. First, I mowed my lawn (good thing since it has been raining on and off since then and they are forecasting up to four inches of rain overnight!). I did a couple errands, then I FINALLY sent the two emails I have been meaning to send all week (work-related). I nearly finished clearing out my basement (I am going to finish once I am done typing!). It is ready for my weekend guest :o) My living room...well, I still have work to do on that before I go to bed (or I will have to finish tomorrow night while she is in bed!).
I had my friend over for dinner (I invited her earlier in the day and she politely declined, then changed her mind...which I COMPLETELY expected her to do, but it still made me laugh out loud!). Her husband is coming tomorrow and will be here until she gets back (she is going home on Sunday for a little over a week). We had a nice visit too, which was good since it may be a while before we can do that (especially considering when she comes back she will then have four kids here!). Of course, now that my basement is "kid ready" (minus the Barbies and dolls for now, but I'll have those out before they come), in theory, they could entertain themselves while we chat...in theory!
Well, we are in for a big storm and have already had quite a bit of thunder and lightening. So, I'm thinking that calls for shutting down the computer for the night. That could be a good thing considering I have a sink full of dishes and laundry to finished (and need to go to bed at a decent hour considering tomorrow I WILL have to get up early!). Good night!
I ate breakfast and drank my coffee VERY slowly. Then, I finally decided that I needed to use this day off to do the things I didn't do yesterday or the day before. First, I mowed my lawn (good thing since it has been raining on and off since then and they are forecasting up to four inches of rain overnight!). I did a couple errands, then I FINALLY sent the two emails I have been meaning to send all week (work-related). I nearly finished clearing out my basement (I am going to finish once I am done typing!). It is ready for my weekend guest :o) My living room...well, I still have work to do on that before I go to bed (or I will have to finish tomorrow night while she is in bed!).
I had my friend over for dinner (I invited her earlier in the day and she politely declined, then changed her mind...which I COMPLETELY expected her to do, but it still made me laugh out loud!). Her husband is coming tomorrow and will be here until she gets back (she is going home on Sunday for a little over a week). We had a nice visit too, which was good since it may be a while before we can do that (especially considering when she comes back she will then have four kids here!). Of course, now that my basement is "kid ready" (minus the Barbies and dolls for now, but I'll have those out before they come), in theory, they could entertain themselves while we chat...in theory!
Well, we are in for a big storm and have already had quite a bit of thunder and lightening. So, I'm thinking that calls for shutting down the computer for the night. That could be a good thing considering I have a sink full of dishes and laundry to finished (and need to go to bed at a decent hour considering tomorrow I WILL have to get up early!). Good night!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Massage and a Hair cut
My sister and I went and got massages this morning. It was SO nice! Unfortunately, my back does not feel any better...I guess it is going to take time to heal. I paid for the massages, and my sister gave me a hair cut. Basically a trim, but it hadn't been trimmed in months, so REALLY needed some work! We enjoyed our time together :o) I'm excited to have a new 'do, even it is just a trim!
I was actually kind of productive the rest of the day (aside from an hour and a half nap this afternoon!). I did a couple loads of laundry and got the "guest room" pretty well set up for my weekend "guest". I had my parents come help me move some furniture (actually, they did all the moving because my back hurts when I just lift my purse!). I have a few more things to clear out of the basement and then it should be good to go for this weekend (and then it is a "work in progress" to get it looking really nice!). I brought some dolls and doll clothes from my parents' house, so I need to get those all cleaned up and put into bins or something like that. My living room is still a mess, so I HOPE I have tomorrow off to take care of that!
Some girls from my floor are playing softball on Wednesday nights. They asked me to play, but I decided I would rather play on Tuesdays and it would be hard to get both days off. Their game today was at 9:30, so I decided to go in case they were short players. I coached first base, and then played second base for three batters until the game was over (we got beat by the "mercy rule"...darn!). I actually haven't played much infield and it kind of scares me, but I made a VERY nice stop (followed by a VERY bad throw!). I was pretty proud about that and kind of impressed my co-workers :o) We went to the bar after the game, but I didn't stay long since I am scheduled to work tomorrow. I didn't participate in the "drinking game" they were playing, even though it looked like a lot of fun and I could have played it in such a way that I would not get "drunk". I probably should have jumped in and just played, but hopefully the fact that I was there was enough. Enough for what, I don't know...being respected?!...as if drinking with the co-workers and the manager it what it takes to "fit in"...anyway, it was VERY fun, and I would have stayed longer if there was not a chance I would actually have to go to work tomorrow. As it is, it is midnight, and my alarm will go off at 5:30 no matter what. I am hopeful that I will get the day off, but there is a chance I will have to go (and if that is the case, it will NOT be very fun, especially since the past two days I barely saw the morning, forget being awake when the sun comes up!).
Alright, enough babbling...good night!
I was actually kind of productive the rest of the day (aside from an hour and a half nap this afternoon!). I did a couple loads of laundry and got the "guest room" pretty well set up for my weekend "guest". I had my parents come help me move some furniture (actually, they did all the moving because my back hurts when I just lift my purse!). I have a few more things to clear out of the basement and then it should be good to go for this weekend (and then it is a "work in progress" to get it looking really nice!). I brought some dolls and doll clothes from my parents' house, so I need to get those all cleaned up and put into bins or something like that. My living room is still a mess, so I HOPE I have tomorrow off to take care of that!
Some girls from my floor are playing softball on Wednesday nights. They asked me to play, but I decided I would rather play on Tuesdays and it would be hard to get both days off. Their game today was at 9:30, so I decided to go in case they were short players. I coached first base, and then played second base for three batters until the game was over (we got beat by the "mercy rule"...darn!). I actually haven't played much infield and it kind of scares me, but I made a VERY nice stop (followed by a VERY bad throw!). I was pretty proud about that and kind of impressed my co-workers :o) We went to the bar after the game, but I didn't stay long since I am scheduled to work tomorrow. I didn't participate in the "drinking game" they were playing, even though it looked like a lot of fun and I could have played it in such a way that I would not get "drunk". I probably should have jumped in and just played, but hopefully the fact that I was there was enough. Enough for what, I don't know...being respected?!...as if drinking with the co-workers and the manager it what it takes to "fit in"...anyway, it was VERY fun, and I would have stayed longer if there was not a chance I would actually have to go to work tomorrow. As it is, it is midnight, and my alarm will go off at 5:30 no matter what. I am hopeful that I will get the day off, but there is a chance I will have to go (and if that is the case, it will NOT be very fun, especially since the past two days I barely saw the morning, forget being awake when the sun comes up!).
Alright, enough babbling...good night!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
A "working" day off
I was "off" today, which basically meant I got to stay in bed until 11, and only had to be at the hospital for five hours instead of thirteen.
I had a class that is to help me in my role as the chairperson of my unit council. Today's class was VERY interesting (the second in a three-part series). I learned a LOT, and am excited to put what I have learned into practice. It is really exciting to see what kind of organization I am a part of. There has been a LOT of work done to ensure that staff nurses play a large role in big decisions that are made regarding organizational policies, procedures, patient care practices,etc. I really had no idea what all was involved in this, or how this really affected me and my job. Today's class also talked about "non-defensive communication", which will be beneficial for me, as a person who likes to run away from conflict!
I went and visited my friend and her baby after my meeting that followed the class. They are both doing well. She is going home next week for a week and is looking forward to seeing her other kids (but it will be really hard to leave her baby!). We ended up going shopping later (to Target and the grocery store...didn't we just do that five days ago?!...oh well, we both needed more "stuff"!).
Tomorrow I am getting a massage and a haircut with my sister. My back has been hurting for a week, so hopefully the massage helps with that. I have not gotten a haircut in months, so that is much needed as well! I did a few things around the house to get ready for this weekend, but have a LOT more to do after I am finished with my "pampering" :o)
I like this "Quote of the Day" for today...so true! "The longer I live, the more beautiful life becomes." ~Frank Lloyd Wright; For me, it could be because the longer I live, the more wonderful people God has placed in my life to remind me how truly beautiful (and precious) life is!
Good night!
I had a class that is to help me in my role as the chairperson of my unit council. Today's class was VERY interesting (the second in a three-part series). I learned a LOT, and am excited to put what I have learned into practice. It is really exciting to see what kind of organization I am a part of. There has been a LOT of work done to ensure that staff nurses play a large role in big decisions that are made regarding organizational policies, procedures, patient care practices,etc. I really had no idea what all was involved in this, or how this really affected me and my job. Today's class also talked about "non-defensive communication", which will be beneficial for me, as a person who likes to run away from conflict!
I went and visited my friend and her baby after my meeting that followed the class. They are both doing well. She is going home next week for a week and is looking forward to seeing her other kids (but it will be really hard to leave her baby!). We ended up going shopping later (to Target and the grocery store...didn't we just do that five days ago?!...oh well, we both needed more "stuff"!).
Tomorrow I am getting a massage and a haircut with my sister. My back has been hurting for a week, so hopefully the massage helps with that. I have not gotten a haircut in months, so that is much needed as well! I did a few things around the house to get ready for this weekend, but have a LOT more to do after I am finished with my "pampering" :o)
I like this "Quote of the Day" for today...so true! "The longer I live, the more beautiful life becomes." ~Frank Lloyd Wright; For me, it could be because the longer I live, the more wonderful people God has placed in my life to remind me how truly beautiful (and precious) life is!
Good night!
Monday, May 26, 2008
Memorial Day
I was at work today, but we don't have that many patients, so it was a good day. I am hoping I get Thursday off (looks like I would be the first to get called if it stays "slow", so that is promising!). This was our first holiday as a "holiday team" since they were formed after the winter holidays. I have a good group of nurses on my "team", so I suppose that means I am looking forward to Thanksgiving (ha ha, not really!).
I went to my parents' house after work for dinner. They ate earlier, but my dad made me a yummy hamburger (I don't know WHAT he does to them, but they are always delicious!). My mom and I visited some, but I tried to leave at a decent hour so she could go to bed!
Of course, I planned on getting some work done around my house after that, but I did not do anything. It is now getting close to 11 and I am VERY tired! Tomorrow is my "day off", but I have a class from 12:30-4, and a meeting from 3:30-5 (so, I will be late to the meeting). I'm thinking I will sleep in late and skip the workout (my back is still hurting from last week...I hope there is an opening at the massage school for Wednesday!). Good night!
On this Memorial Day, I say thanks to all those who have served and are serving in the Military. I could not do what you do, and am grateful for all your hard work to keep this country safe, and protect the freedom of all who live here.
I went to my parents' house after work for dinner. They ate earlier, but my dad made me a yummy hamburger (I don't know WHAT he does to them, but they are always delicious!). My mom and I visited some, but I tried to leave at a decent hour so she could go to bed!
Of course, I planned on getting some work done around my house after that, but I did not do anything. It is now getting close to 11 and I am VERY tired! Tomorrow is my "day off", but I have a class from 12:30-4, and a meeting from 3:30-5 (so, I will be late to the meeting). I'm thinking I will sleep in late and skip the workout (my back is still hurting from last week...I hope there is an opening at the massage school for Wednesday!). Good night!
On this Memorial Day, I say thanks to all those who have served and are serving in the Military. I could not do what you do, and am grateful for all your hard work to keep this country safe, and protect the freedom of all who live here.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Out and About
I couldn't get out of bed this morning in time to make it to choir practice before church. So, I went to 11:00 Mass, but did not sing in the choir. I probably could have slept until noon (or later!), but going to church took priority!
We had brunch at my parents' house. My dad said he made French Toast for over 2 hours and used three loaves of bread! We ate in shifts since everyone came at different times. It was pretty funny! We did take pictures, but I haven't had time to upload them yet. My aunt went back home this afternoon. I think she enjoyed her visit. We will all be together again for our family reunion in August.
After brunch, my sister and I went with my dad to a gathering in the neighborhood where he grew up. A couple that is really good friends with my grandparents celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary (and her 80th birthday!). Their kids, grand-kids, great-grandkids, and many friends were there. It was quite the party! We didn't stay very long because my parents were having people over for dinner.
In between the party and dinner, I finished painting in the basement! I took off the tape, did the touch-ups, and put away the plastic that was covering the carpet! I still need to vacuum, but then I can start putting things where I want them! I bought three "bins" at Target the other day and put some toys in them this evening. I think they will work well, but I may need to get a couple more (I wanted to see how they looked before I bought too many!).
Dinner at my parents was VERY good! After dinner, we sat outside and ended up watching a storm blow in and over. The temperature dropped like 20 degrees in about 20 minutes. It was SO crazy, but SO cool! The sky turned grey, the clouds rolled in, there was thunder and lightning, it rained for a few minutes, and then sky was blue and the sun was out. It seems to have warmed up a little bit more (it was close to 90 degrees today, so my house was pretty hot considering the windows are open!). Hopefully my bedroom is still cool so it is comfortable for sleeping :o)
Well, tomorrow is Memorial Day, but I have to work. So, I should go to bed. Good night!
We had brunch at my parents' house. My dad said he made French Toast for over 2 hours and used three loaves of bread! We ate in shifts since everyone came at different times. It was pretty funny! We did take pictures, but I haven't had time to upload them yet. My aunt went back home this afternoon. I think she enjoyed her visit. We will all be together again for our family reunion in August.
After brunch, my sister and I went with my dad to a gathering in the neighborhood where he grew up. A couple that is really good friends with my grandparents celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary (and her 80th birthday!). Their kids, grand-kids, great-grandkids, and many friends were there. It was quite the party! We didn't stay very long because my parents were having people over for dinner.
In between the party and dinner, I finished painting in the basement! I took off the tape, did the touch-ups, and put away the plastic that was covering the carpet! I still need to vacuum, but then I can start putting things where I want them! I bought three "bins" at Target the other day and put some toys in them this evening. I think they will work well, but I may need to get a couple more (I wanted to see how they looked before I bought too many!).
Dinner at my parents was VERY good! After dinner, we sat outside and ended up watching a storm blow in and over. The temperature dropped like 20 degrees in about 20 minutes. It was SO crazy, but SO cool! The sky turned grey, the clouds rolled in, there was thunder and lightning, it rained for a few minutes, and then sky was blue and the sun was out. It seems to have warmed up a little bit more (it was close to 90 degrees today, so my house was pretty hot considering the windows are open!). Hopefully my bedroom is still cool so it is comfortable for sleeping :o)
Well, tomorrow is Memorial Day, but I have to work. So, I should go to bed. Good night!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
It is Saturday
and it is almost Sunday! With my crazy schedule, I often have a difficult time remembering what day it is (and hopefully by figuring out what day it is, I can figure out where I need to be and at what time!). When I work during the week, I park in one place. When I work on the weekend, I park in a different place. So, lot of times, I have to remind myself what day it is when I get off so I don't go to the wrong parking garage!
It was Saturday, which means none of the "regular" transplant people were there. That made for a pretty quiet day (especially since they really didn't make any changes). I am almost certain that I sat more during this shift than I did last Saturday, Sunday, and Monday combined! I actually was kind of bored (even though I am SURE there were "extra" things I could have done!).
After work, I went to a graduation party at my parents' neighbors' house. Even though I have met her nephews "a zillion" times, I cannot seem to keep them straight. I am sure I have met this one that graduated from college, but I was just going for the food! They had chips and cheese, Italian sausage with peppers, pasta salad, pizza, cake...I had "thirds" of some things, so there went my diet (ha, ha!).
I have tomorrow off, then back to work on Monday. I really wish I didn't have anything to do because I would love to finish my basement project and start getting ready for next weekend's baby-sitting job. However, there is a lot going on. Of course, it is good things like going to church, seeing my aunt before she flies back home, going to see my grandparents at a party for some of their friends who have been married 60 years, having a cookout with my parents...definitely all good and enjoyable things, but I will feel SO much better once my "project" is complete. Hopefully I'll be able to fit some of that in somewhere (although, I'm quite the "Chatty Cathy", so it is hard to leave social gatherings once I get there! I know a LOT of people and love to talk about what I do and what I have done).
Well, it is 11:00, which is the time I usually go to bed when I have to get up at 6 for work. So, I SUPPOSE I could get up early and go to 9:00 Mass instead of 11 and try to get some stuff done before lunch. However, I haven't sung in the choir in over a month and they sing at 11. That would mean that I could get some extra sleep which probably wouldn't hurt! Good night.
It was Saturday, which means none of the "regular" transplant people were there. That made for a pretty quiet day (especially since they really didn't make any changes). I am almost certain that I sat more during this shift than I did last Saturday, Sunday, and Monday combined! I actually was kind of bored (even though I am SURE there were "extra" things I could have done!).
After work, I went to a graduation party at my parents' neighbors' house. Even though I have met her nephews "a zillion" times, I cannot seem to keep them straight. I am sure I have met this one that graduated from college, but I was just going for the food! They had chips and cheese, Italian sausage with peppers, pasta salad, pizza, cake...I had "thirds" of some things, so there went my diet (ha, ha!).
I have tomorrow off, then back to work on Monday. I really wish I didn't have anything to do because I would love to finish my basement project and start getting ready for next weekend's baby-sitting job. However, there is a lot going on. Of course, it is good things like going to church, seeing my aunt before she flies back home, going to see my grandparents at a party for some of their friends who have been married 60 years, having a cookout with my parents...definitely all good and enjoyable things, but I will feel SO much better once my "project" is complete. Hopefully I'll be able to fit some of that in somewhere (although, I'm quite the "Chatty Cathy", so it is hard to leave social gatherings once I get there! I know a LOT of people and love to talk about what I do and what I have done).
Well, it is 11:00, which is the time I usually go to bed when I have to get up at 6 for work. So, I SUPPOSE I could get up early and go to 9:00 Mass instead of 11 and try to get some stuff done before lunch. However, I haven't sung in the choir in over a month and they sing at 11. That would mean that I could get some extra sleep which probably wouldn't hurt! Good night.
Friday, May 23, 2008
I was given the chance
to stay in bed and have the day off work. Oh it was definitely tempting to say yes. However, after the three days "off" I just had, I decided that going to work for 12 1/2 hours would slow me down! I felt like I had been running here, there, and everywhere seeing how much I could really pack into one day. I kind of thought that going to work would be a nice break! :o) (I also was hoping that saying "no" today would mean that tomorrow it would be my turn, but that is not going to happen...darn!)
I did have a good day at work. I got one admission (the lead nurse helped me a LOT with that one) and sent one kid home. One kid I had the whole day and he wasn't NEARLY as busy as he was when I had him last weekend. At lunch time, my manager asked me if I had taken care of a particular patient last Saturday. I was thinking "oh great, what did that family have to say about me?!" (especially since I was none too thrilled about THEM in the morning, although things did get a bit better as the day progressed). She told me that they had some kind of meeting with lots of people (maybe about some "issues"...I'm not sure) and my name came up...as a nurse they really liked when they were on my floor...really?! That mom said what?! Well, I guess that goes to show that you never know who is watching, and who is going to find out, so you should always be on your "best behavior"! I am VERY glad that she didn't realize how TRULY annoyed I was with her (or how many times I complained about her to anyone who would listen!). That is a good thing for my manager to hear since our annual evaluation time is just around the corner :o) Also, I think that it shows good management to inform an employee about compliments that are made, especially when they are made publicly.
So, I'm definitely thankful that I didn't end up regretting my decision to go to work! It was a good day, I got paid, I took a break from all the stuff I have to deal with at my house; I didn't have to make excuses for not getting everything done because "I had to work a 12-hour-shift" is sufficient :o)
I did cook dinner (and lunch for me and my friend) when I got home. My back and shoulders are still sore, so I think I'll take some drugs and go to bed "early". Good night!
I did have a good day at work. I got one admission (the lead nurse helped me a LOT with that one) and sent one kid home. One kid I had the whole day and he wasn't NEARLY as busy as he was when I had him last weekend. At lunch time, my manager asked me if I had taken care of a particular patient last Saturday. I was thinking "oh great, what did that family have to say about me?!" (especially since I was none too thrilled about THEM in the morning, although things did get a bit better as the day progressed). She told me that they had some kind of meeting with lots of people (maybe about some "issues"...I'm not sure) and my name came up...as a nurse they really liked when they were on my floor...really?! That mom said what?! Well, I guess that goes to show that you never know who is watching, and who is going to find out, so you should always be on your "best behavior"! I am VERY glad that she didn't realize how TRULY annoyed I was with her (or how many times I complained about her to anyone who would listen!). That is a good thing for my manager to hear since our annual evaluation time is just around the corner :o) Also, I think that it shows good management to inform an employee about compliments that are made, especially when they are made publicly.
So, I'm definitely thankful that I didn't end up regretting my decision to go to work! It was a good day, I got paid, I took a break from all the stuff I have to deal with at my house; I didn't have to make excuses for not getting everything done because "I had to work a 12-hour-shift" is sufficient :o)
I did cook dinner (and lunch for me and my friend) when I got home. My back and shoulders are still sore, so I think I'll take some drugs and go to bed "early". Good night!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
A Year of Blogging
One year ago today, I "bit the bullet", "pulled the trigger", "took a giant leap", I wish I could think of more!, and started a blog. I called myself "Just Me" since I wasn't sure how open I wanted it to be. I thought it should sort of be "anonymous" because of the nature of my work and privacy laws and left things pretty vague (although I am sure if someone wanted to find me, it would not be very hard with a little bit of computer skills!). I titled it "Do I have anything to say?" because I wasn't sure what I would write about, or if anyone would ever read it. I still like that title. I also like what I wrote as my description--"This is my attempt at blogging, even though I live a basically boring life and probably don't have much to say"--although these days, my life has not felt very boring! However, I have decided not to change my layout or those words because that is how it all began.
Here is my first post:
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
The first one
Okay, so in the past five months, I have opened a myspace account, a facebook account, and now a blog. No wonder I have gained 12 pounds! I haven't quite figured out myspace or facebook, but read a lot of blogs and it looks like something I can do. Of course, I am not really sure I have anything interesting to say, or if anyone would really care, but figure it was worth a try. Anyway, this is the first one. So far so good.
A year has passed...
I'm still carrying around those 12 pounds, haven't checked my "myspace" in months, and only rarely use my "facebook". So, blogging seems to fit my "needs" (meaning, I can journal my thoughts without worrying about who may read them and what they think...unfortunately, that is not the case for a lot of "bloggers", but so far this is working for me!). I read even more "blogs" now than I did them (and have become a little bit "braver" in leaving occasional comments!). I get a couple "hits" a day now instead of a couple a month, and I'm okay with not having hundreds or thousands of daily visitors! I have a couple of "regular" visitors who leave me encouraging comments (thanks Laurie and Marcie!). I have laughed, I have cried. I have had fun and exciting times, and difficult and discouraging times. I gained a brother-in-law, new friends, new perspectives on life, and created memories (among other things, I am sure!) I have lost a few things too, but this is celebration time! I write a lot longer posts now too!
A year of blogging...when I started this blog, I wasn't sure what I would write about, or how long I would write. Journaling (or keeping a diary) has always been important to me. Having a new venue in which to journal has been fun for me, and often times very helpful.
Here's to another year of blogging! I still have not opened up this journal to many people I actually know. I think I will keep it that way because right now I can write whatever is on my mind without worrying about offending anyone close to me. I am free to be myself, "just me", on the good days and the bad days; when I am happy, angry, upset, frustruated, annoyed; when I just need to "vent", or when I want to write something down so I will not forget it.
____________________________
I am almost done painting! I finished the second coat, but need to take off the tape and do any touch-ups. Then, I need to get everything organized. When it is "finished" (I'm sure I'll eventually want to do the trim or add some furniture or decorations or something!), I will make a slide show of the before and after.
I went to dinner with a friend, then brought my other friend to Target and the grocery store (I was already going and asked if she wanted to come along for the ride). The baby is back on dialysis since his kidneys aren't fully "awake" yet, but she got to hold him and he remains off the ventilator. As sick as he was, baby steps are okay (but it will be SO great when he is well enough to come to my floor and then to my house!).
Back to work tomorrow. My entire body hurts (probably a combination of softball and painting), so I need to take some medicine and go to bed. My birthday is five months from today (so, I figured out that I turn "thirty" in "seventeen months"...not that I'm counting down or anything, it is just a calculation!). Good night!
Here is my first post:
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
The first one
Okay, so in the past five months, I have opened a myspace account, a facebook account, and now a blog. No wonder I have gained 12 pounds! I haven't quite figured out myspace or facebook, but read a lot of blogs and it looks like something I can do. Of course, I am not really sure I have anything interesting to say, or if anyone would really care, but figure it was worth a try. Anyway, this is the first one. So far so good.
A year has passed...
I'm still carrying around those 12 pounds, haven't checked my "myspace" in months, and only rarely use my "facebook". So, blogging seems to fit my "needs" (meaning, I can journal my thoughts without worrying about who may read them and what they think...unfortunately, that is not the case for a lot of "bloggers", but so far this is working for me!). I read even more "blogs" now than I did them (and have become a little bit "braver" in leaving occasional comments!). I get a couple "hits" a day now instead of a couple a month, and I'm okay with not having hundreds or thousands of daily visitors! I have a couple of "regular" visitors who leave me encouraging comments (thanks Laurie and Marcie!). I have laughed, I have cried. I have had fun and exciting times, and difficult and discouraging times. I gained a brother-in-law, new friends, new perspectives on life, and created memories (among other things, I am sure!) I have lost a few things too, but this is celebration time! I write a lot longer posts now too!
A year of blogging...when I started this blog, I wasn't sure what I would write about, or how long I would write. Journaling (or keeping a diary) has always been important to me. Having a new venue in which to journal has been fun for me, and often times very helpful.
Here's to another year of blogging! I still have not opened up this journal to many people I actually know. I think I will keep it that way because right now I can write whatever is on my mind without worrying about offending anyone close to me. I am free to be myself, "just me", on the good days and the bad days; when I am happy, angry, upset, frustruated, annoyed; when I just need to "vent", or when I want to write something down so I will not forget it.
____________________________
I am almost done painting! I finished the second coat, but need to take off the tape and do any touch-ups. Then, I need to get everything organized. When it is "finished" (I'm sure I'll eventually want to do the trim or add some furniture or decorations or something!), I will make a slide show of the before and after.
I went to dinner with a friend, then brought my other friend to Target and the grocery store (I was already going and asked if she wanted to come along for the ride). The baby is back on dialysis since his kidneys aren't fully "awake" yet, but she got to hold him and he remains off the ventilator. As sick as he was, baby steps are okay (but it will be SO great when he is well enough to come to my floor and then to my house!).
Back to work tomorrow. My entire body hurts (probably a combination of softball and painting), so I need to take some medicine and go to bed. My birthday is five months from today (so, I figured out that I turn "thirty" in "seventeen months"...not that I'm counting down or anything, it is just a calculation!). Good night!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Mostly Ups
My mom drove my aunt to meet my grandparents at a restaurant for breakfast. I went along for the ride (and for the conversation and yummy food!). My mom has five sisters, and if I had to "pick", I would say this one is my favorite. Of course, since she kind of WAS my mom when I was in college because she lived so close, that makes sense :o) We had a really nice visit, and I LOVE breakfast food! My aunt when the rest of the way home with them, and my mom drove us back so she could go to work. She and I had a good talk as well.
Me, Grandpa, Aunt, Grandma
Um, are we related or what?! (Not a very
Um, are we related or what?! (Not a very
good photo of me since I was looking directly into the sun,
but it works, I guess.)
After I got home, I went to Fashion Bug and bought a few things since I had two coupons (I got a shirt, a pair of capris, and a pair of bermuda shorts for $30!). I stopped by Hallmark to get a couple cards. I was home briefly before I went to the hospital for a 3:00 memorial service they held for the little boy who passed away yesterday. It was by far the largest turnout for a memorial service at the hospital with about 80 people in attendence. It was also one of the shortest because hardly any of those people wanted to share their stories with the entire group. What great support for that family...there were nurses from multiple floors, doctors from multiple services, ancillary support workers, nursing assistants, other parents...and more. It was really nice to see that. And, while there were tears, there were also some good stories and memories shared about a very special little boy.
After the service, I went and visited my friend and her baby. While I was there (I was there over an hour!) they took the ventilator out of his room. They also removed the dialysis machine because he has been peeing! Physical Therapy came to work with him (he is pretty weak after being so sick for so long, plus having major surgery). He was not liking it very much, so I couldn't get a smile, but he looks really good! (The one on the left was actually one of the last days he smiled until after he came off the ventilator last week. He looks even sicker in other "before" photos, and looks better in some other "after" pictures)
I vegged at home for a little while before I went to spend time with the little girl I will be baby-sitting next weekend. She is a really sweet girl and I think we will have fun (it will probably be more work than I can imagine, but it will be a GREAT experience!). Her mom gave me some toys, and told me what her normal schedule/routine is, so that will help!
I left THERE around 8:30 to go pick up my friend for dinner. She said she would take me out to the Olive Garden since I paid for her ice cream and picked up her pictures, etc. I decided to let her do that (and we both probably ate more than we should have, but it was SO good!). She was a little worried about the way her son was breathing when she left. Hopefully he can stay off the ventilator. I guess if he can stay off dialysis and the ventilator for a few days, he could be working his way up to the general floor and out of the hospital! Not to get too excited because these kids can change in status with a blink of an eye, but praying that is the direction he is headed...out to the "real world" to see the sunlight, feel the rain, and all the wonderful things that await him.
So, mostly good stuff today. That was refreshing. I did get a little overwhelmed for a while because I am feeling like all I do is "go go go and then go some more". That doesn't really seem like how it should be when you are young and single and it was kind of stressing me out! There is another transplant patient whose mom has called me a couple times. I REALLY want to help her out because she is pretty stressed out and would love to have some adult conversation . Unfortunately, yesterday and today ended up being so crazy that I have yet to finish my painting. I need to finish my painting, so I can organize that room, so I can then organize my living room and office, so that it is ready for when I baby-sit next week. Therefore, I NEED to do that tomorrow, which leaves very little time to do something that would involve a bit of planning...especially since I have already planned to have dinner with another friend tomorrow night, and then work on Friday and Saturday. Gosh, all this thinking makes me tired (well, I suppose the fact that it is after midnight means I have another reason to be tierd besides thinking and stressing out!). Okay, good night!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Let it out
I definitely slept well last night, but eventually rolled out of bed around 10:00. My friend texted me at that time that her baby made two wet diapers...maybe his kidneys have woken up! That would be SO great!
Before I left for Curves, I checked my email. I found out that another one of our patients passed away at 9:15 this morning. I'm thinking this could be close to 10 in the last 6-8 weeks. This one was particularly difficult since he had been one of "our" patients for about three years. He was such a sweet boy and has great parents.
I decided to buy four windows to "finish off" my house. They are "triple-pane" and VERY nice (over $600 each!). I think they will help with energy costs, plus the windows I have cannot be opened and the paint is chipping so it is time. Good-bye "extra cash"!
Then, I mowed my lawn. While I was mowing, I nearly had a meltdown. Twice this morning I said something about another kid dying, but that seems to happen all the time recently. I said that's pretty much what happens when you deal with the sickest kids in the country. One of the hazards of the job. WOW. How absolutely terrible I felt! I hadn't actually cried about ANY of those kids. How sad is that?! I don't want to be THAT person. I don't want to be someone who doesn't get sad when kids die because it is "expected" that many will. This whole concept made me want to cry. How could I say those kinds of things?! I never want to become "numb" to the grief and sadness that comes when a child dies. Of COURSE it is sad when a parent loses a child, no matter how old they were, no matter how sick they were, or how long they fought. I DO know that and I DO believe that. So why did I say such "heartless" things? Maybe those conversations were more of an "act", or a way to protect the other person in the conversation from having to "take on" my sadness? Sharing grief with friends, family, and co-workers is one thing, but bringing "strangers" and "acquaintances" is not nearly as appropriate. I sure hope that is the reason because the alternative...I can't even imagine.
So, I started to feel like less of a crappy person, and tried very hard to keep the tears from flowing. At this point, my friend (baby's mom friend) called to see if I wanted to get ice cream with her. Oh how wonderful is God's timing?! A walk, a friend, ice cream...a therapist probably couldn't have ordered anything better! Of course, I was unable to hold back my tears for long, but think my meltdown would have been a lot worse had I been sitting alone at my house on my computer (or alone trying to get my painting finished). We stopped at the store to print out some pictures (it was "Ten-cent Tuesday"). I ended up breaking the machine...it was REALLY broken and I felt very badly about that! I got some sense knocked into me when I walked into a stop sign (well, some kind of sign that was attached to a stop sign...I'm not THAT tall). It was SO great to spend time with my friend (even though I felt badly about involving her in my meltdown...I am sure she is dealing with stuff too because she is living in the PICU where it has not been a very happy place).
My softball team lost (we stopped the game when they were beating us by 10 runs). I think we can come closer to that next time, and maybe even beat them. My aunt from Tennessee is in town and my mom and I are taking her halfway to my grandparents' house tomorrow. My mom said we are leaving "no later than 8:30". Since it is after 11:30 and I still have to shower...I should probably stop journaling for today. It's been a while since I had such a meltdown, but thank God for great friends and family! I am so blessed. Good night.
Before I left for Curves, I checked my email. I found out that another one of our patients passed away at 9:15 this morning. I'm thinking this could be close to 10 in the last 6-8 weeks. This one was particularly difficult since he had been one of "our" patients for about three years. He was such a sweet boy and has great parents.
I decided to buy four windows to "finish off" my house. They are "triple-pane" and VERY nice (over $600 each!). I think they will help with energy costs, plus the windows I have cannot be opened and the paint is chipping so it is time. Good-bye "extra cash"!
Then, I mowed my lawn. While I was mowing, I nearly had a meltdown. Twice this morning I said something about another kid dying, but that seems to happen all the time recently. I said that's pretty much what happens when you deal with the sickest kids in the country. One of the hazards of the job. WOW. How absolutely terrible I felt! I hadn't actually cried about ANY of those kids. How sad is that?! I don't want to be THAT person. I don't want to be someone who doesn't get sad when kids die because it is "expected" that many will. This whole concept made me want to cry. How could I say those kinds of things?! I never want to become "numb" to the grief and sadness that comes when a child dies. Of COURSE it is sad when a parent loses a child, no matter how old they were, no matter how sick they were, or how long they fought. I DO know that and I DO believe that. So why did I say such "heartless" things? Maybe those conversations were more of an "act", or a way to protect the other person in the conversation from having to "take on" my sadness? Sharing grief with friends, family, and co-workers is one thing, but bringing "strangers" and "acquaintances" is not nearly as appropriate. I sure hope that is the reason because the alternative...I can't even imagine.
So, I started to feel like less of a crappy person, and tried very hard to keep the tears from flowing. At this point, my friend (baby's mom friend) called to see if I wanted to get ice cream with her. Oh how wonderful is God's timing?! A walk, a friend, ice cream...a therapist probably couldn't have ordered anything better! Of course, I was unable to hold back my tears for long, but think my meltdown would have been a lot worse had I been sitting alone at my house on my computer (or alone trying to get my painting finished). We stopped at the store to print out some pictures (it was "Ten-cent Tuesday"). I ended up breaking the machine...it was REALLY broken and I felt very badly about that! I got some sense knocked into me when I walked into a stop sign (well, some kind of sign that was attached to a stop sign...I'm not THAT tall). It was SO great to spend time with my friend (even though I felt badly about involving her in my meltdown...I am sure she is dealing with stuff too because she is living in the PICU where it has not been a very happy place).
My softball team lost (we stopped the game when they were beating us by 10 runs). I think we can come closer to that next time, and maybe even beat them. My aunt from Tennessee is in town and my mom and I are taking her halfway to my grandparents' house tomorrow. My mom said we are leaving "no later than 8:30". Since it is after 11:30 and I still have to shower...I should probably stop journaling for today. It's been a while since I had such a meltdown, but thank God for great friends and family! I am so blessed. Good night.
Monday, May 19, 2008
If I had a fork
I would have said "stick it in me, because I am 'done'".
Last night when I was laying in bed, I realized my feet were sore. Right now, they are tingling and I really should have taken time to soak them or SOMETHING. That also makes me think that I also should consider seeing a podiatrist, but that has been low priority for so long, why "go there" now?! I nearly had a meltdown around 4:00 this afternoon, but managed to "suck it up" and the last 3 1/2 hours went smoothly. We ended up being able to figure out something so I did not have to do hourly dressing changes. I'm pretty sure the baby was as excited about that as I was! That poor kid was SO exhausted after over 72 hours of hourly cares. I took care of a kid today that I only had for a couple hours yesterday. He is SO cute and his mom is REALLY sweet (of course, yesterday and the day before he threw some MAJOR tantrums, so I'm thinking he wasn't so cute then, but I had him on a good day!). So...looking on the bright side, these three days could have been much worse (and, I think Saturday was the "worst"...having worst first is probably better than worst last). In those three days, four kids got sent to the PICU for such things as seizures, turning blue, not breathing, having wounds burst open...hourly dressing changes was frustruating, annoying, exhausting, but nothing like the stress that comes with having a kid get that sick so fast.
I decided I needed some fresh air after all this, so went to watch my dad's softball team play. I was there for most of the second game and coached first base. They ended up losing, but they played pretty well and there are REALLY nice girls on the team.
I set up a "dinner date" with a friend for Thursday. That will be fun. I also talked to the baby's mom briefly after that. She is doing okay. I am off the next three days, so maybe we will "do lunch". One of these days, I need to finish painting, but I'm thinking tomorrow could be like a "day of rest" for me...or, maybe I will get a "second wind" and be ready to "get 'er done". (Wow, that's a paragraph with a lot of "catch phrases"!)
Getting "punchy" so better get ready for bed. Good night!
Last night when I was laying in bed, I realized my feet were sore. Right now, they are tingling and I really should have taken time to soak them or SOMETHING. That also makes me think that I also should consider seeing a podiatrist, but that has been low priority for so long, why "go there" now?! I nearly had a meltdown around 4:00 this afternoon, but managed to "suck it up" and the last 3 1/2 hours went smoothly. We ended up being able to figure out something so I did not have to do hourly dressing changes. I'm pretty sure the baby was as excited about that as I was! That poor kid was SO exhausted after over 72 hours of hourly cares. I took care of a kid today that I only had for a couple hours yesterday. He is SO cute and his mom is REALLY sweet (of course, yesterday and the day before he threw some MAJOR tantrums, so I'm thinking he wasn't so cute then, but I had him on a good day!). So...looking on the bright side, these three days could have been much worse (and, I think Saturday was the "worst"...having worst first is probably better than worst last). In those three days, four kids got sent to the PICU for such things as seizures, turning blue, not breathing, having wounds burst open...hourly dressing changes was frustruating, annoying, exhausting, but nothing like the stress that comes with having a kid get that sick so fast.
I decided I needed some fresh air after all this, so went to watch my dad's softball team play. I was there for most of the second game and coached first base. They ended up losing, but they played pretty well and there are REALLY nice girls on the team.
I set up a "dinner date" with a friend for Thursday. That will be fun. I also talked to the baby's mom briefly after that. She is doing okay. I am off the next three days, so maybe we will "do lunch". One of these days, I need to finish painting, but I'm thinking tomorrow could be like a "day of rest" for me...or, maybe I will get a "second wind" and be ready to "get 'er done". (Wow, that's a paragraph with a lot of "catch phrases"!)
Getting "punchy" so better get ready for bed. Good night!
Sunday, May 18, 2008
2/3 Done
Today was a LOT better than yesterday! Thank goodness because I'm not sure WHAT I would have done--I am sure I would not have been a "happy camper" and probably pretty crabby! I think I fell asleep before 10:30 which I am sure helped things. I still had to do every hour on the hour dressing changes, but I just had one other patient until 5:00 and the nursing assistants helped me A LOT! Two down, one to go...tomorrow is MONDAY, but I'm hoping that the craziness of the day will not affect me :o) (I WON'T let it affect me...I suppose that's a better way to think about it!)
Today was not such a great day for the baby. Around 4:30, one of the other nurses pointed to his name on the census and said "this kid isn't doing very well...there are a LOT of doctors in there". I quickly ran to get my phone to see if my friend had left me a message. We "texted" back and forth for a little while and then I went to see her after I got off. It sounds like he is more stable now, but he is back on the ventilator. Now I'm really glad I got to see him yesterday when he was happy. My friend is doing okay. Of course, she had to deal with some "drama" at home today too (but realized that she can't REALLY deal with them, or worry about them...I love how people can do that!). I'm glad I wasn't as tired as I was last night so was able to spend a little time "chatting" without feeling like I was going to fall over from exhaustion. I cooked a HUGE dinner so I can bring "leftovers" for us to eat for lunch tomorrow. Today the nurses on my floor ordered Chinese. I split my meal with her (and got an additional soup for her...I "double checked" to make sure the person picking up the food was "okay" with that...remember that whole "mean people suck" issue from a few months ago?!) which worked out great because this restaurant gives you SO much food and I would have been tempted to eat more than my share.
Alright, I've set myself up to be able to go to bed "early" again tonight...now, if I can only get myself there (I'm actually having a second helping of dinner and trying to catch up on my TV watching, so not sure how that will work out...). Good night.
Today was not such a great day for the baby. Around 4:30, one of the other nurses pointed to his name on the census and said "this kid isn't doing very well...there are a LOT of doctors in there". I quickly ran to get my phone to see if my friend had left me a message. We "texted" back and forth for a little while and then I went to see her after I got off. It sounds like he is more stable now, but he is back on the ventilator. Now I'm really glad I got to see him yesterday when he was happy. My friend is doing okay. Of course, she had to deal with some "drama" at home today too (but realized that she can't REALLY deal with them, or worry about them...I love how people can do that!). I'm glad I wasn't as tired as I was last night so was able to spend a little time "chatting" without feeling like I was going to fall over from exhaustion. I cooked a HUGE dinner so I can bring "leftovers" for us to eat for lunch tomorrow. Today the nurses on my floor ordered Chinese. I split my meal with her (and got an additional soup for her...I "double checked" to make sure the person picking up the food was "okay" with that...remember that whole "mean people suck" issue from a few months ago?!) which worked out great because this restaurant gives you SO much food and I would have been tempted to eat more than my share.
Alright, I've set myself up to be able to go to bed "early" again tonight...now, if I can only get myself there (I'm actually having a second helping of dinner and trying to catch up on my TV watching, so not sure how that will work out...). Good night.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Not a Vacation
Obviously someone heard about me thinking going back to my job would be a vacation compared to the work I have been doing the past couple days. Today was anything BUT a vacation! I was busy ALL DAY LONG and it was not too fun!
The shift started with a "Code Blue" being called. (The kid is doing better and it wasn't a "real" Code Blue, but it made for a busy change of shift.) I was not involved in that directly, but that led to me having to get a transfer from the PICU rather quickly. The mom of that patient was rather impatient and had some pretty unreasonable expectations for 8:00 in the morning. That did not get my day off to a very good start. One of my other patients had dressing changes I had to do every hour on the hour. By 4:00 I was pretty fed up with that and finally had someone come help me. It is a REALLY frustrating process and I'm not really looking forward to doing it again tomorrow. Luckily, the baby is really cute (and does VERY well with all that "messing" we have to do to him!) :o) Also, good thing my THIRD patient was not needy at all (not "cares wise" OR "parent wise) because he probably would have ended up with the short end of the stick anyway. My lunch break was short since I had to fit it in between dressing changes and other cares. I never did get my coffee or my breakfast... At least I wasn't the only one that was busy because that would have made the day even worse. I did get quite annoyed when one nurse sat and chatted for at least an hour, but suppose I didn't have very many things I could have delegated to someone else. I also was annoyed that a family I know came up to visit and I had to work the whole time they were there. I spent a lot of time with the girls when they lived here, but haven't seen them since before their brother died in September. I was so busy that I barely had time to talk to them (I did get a picture, but am too tired to upload photos right now).
I went and visited the baby when I got off. He looks REALLY good! His kidneys haven't started working, but he is now only on 10 hours of dialysis. He held my finger for a while when I was visiting with my friend (pretty hard too...he's a strong boy!). My friend said he likes me (to which I replied "good thing, or you would have to say good-bye to me!") It is an answer to so many prayers that he is doing so well right now. Of course, his road remains tough, but he is awake and smiling and that is so great! Now that he is off the ventilator I am more comfortable going to visit.
My parents stopped by on their way home and both of them are impressed by my painting job. I'm thinking that makes some of the hard work worth it! It will be SO nice when it is finished and I am really excited about that! I was WAY too tired to do any work on it when I got home (I am nearly to the point of being so tired that I feel sick...I need to go to bed soon). I'm not sure if I will have energy tomorrow night either.
Good night. (Trying to go to bed early tonight!)
The shift started with a "Code Blue" being called. (The kid is doing better and it wasn't a "real" Code Blue, but it made for a busy change of shift.) I was not involved in that directly, but that led to me having to get a transfer from the PICU rather quickly. The mom of that patient was rather impatient and had some pretty unreasonable expectations for 8:00 in the morning. That did not get my day off to a very good start. One of my other patients had dressing changes I had to do every hour on the hour. By 4:00 I was pretty fed up with that and finally had someone come help me. It is a REALLY frustrating process and I'm not really looking forward to doing it again tomorrow. Luckily, the baby is really cute (and does VERY well with all that "messing" we have to do to him!) :o) Also, good thing my THIRD patient was not needy at all (not "cares wise" OR "parent wise) because he probably would have ended up with the short end of the stick anyway. My lunch break was short since I had to fit it in between dressing changes and other cares. I never did get my coffee or my breakfast... At least I wasn't the only one that was busy because that would have made the day even worse. I did get quite annoyed when one nurse sat and chatted for at least an hour, but suppose I didn't have very many things I could have delegated to someone else. I also was annoyed that a family I know came up to visit and I had to work the whole time they were there. I spent a lot of time with the girls when they lived here, but haven't seen them since before their brother died in September. I was so busy that I barely had time to talk to them (I did get a picture, but am too tired to upload photos right now).
I went and visited the baby when I got off. He looks REALLY good! His kidneys haven't started working, but he is now only on 10 hours of dialysis. He held my finger for a while when I was visiting with my friend (pretty hard too...he's a strong boy!). My friend said he likes me (to which I replied "good thing, or you would have to say good-bye to me!") It is an answer to so many prayers that he is doing so well right now. Of course, his road remains tough, but he is awake and smiling and that is so great! Now that he is off the ventilator I am more comfortable going to visit.
My parents stopped by on their way home and both of them are impressed by my painting job. I'm thinking that makes some of the hard work worth it! It will be SO nice when it is finished and I am really excited about that! I was WAY too tired to do any work on it when I got home (I am nearly to the point of being so tired that I feel sick...I need to go to bed soon). I'm not sure if I will have energy tomorrow night either.
Good night. (Trying to go to bed early tonight!)
Friday, May 16, 2008
Small Favors
I ran out of paint, which meant I was able to quit for the day/night. I had set my alarm for 11:00 because that pretty much needed to be "quitting time" since I work in the morning. There is NO WAY I was going to be finished before 11:00, but MAY have gotten JUST close enough that I would have felt like I had to stay up to complete the project. This way is a LOT better!
I talked to my mom and she is going to try and pick me up another gallon of paint tomorrow. She stopped by on her way home and told me that it looks good (thanks mom!). She also hooked up my hose (my dad had unhooked it for the winter...) and watered my plants/flowers...they were dying since it hasn't rained in a few days (OH, you are supposed to WATER those things?!).
Okay, I'd better "rest up" for my three days of work (as if these four days off were free of work...I'm thinking work could feel like a vacation!). Good night.
I talked to my mom and she is going to try and pick me up another gallon of paint tomorrow. She stopped by on her way home and told me that it looks good (thanks mom!). She also hooked up my hose (my dad had unhooked it for the winter...) and watered my plants/flowers...they were dying since it hasn't rained in a few days (OH, you are supposed to WATER those things?!).
Okay, I'd better "rest up" for my three days of work (as if these four days off were free of work...I'm thinking work could feel like a vacation!). Good night.
Whose idea was this again?
Oh yeah, it was mine. Next time I decide I need to paint a room in my house I either need to be reminded of these two days or get someone to help me!
I have taken about a five hour break, so it is time to start up again (and hopefully finish a LOT earlier than last night because I have to be at work at 7). During my break, I did do some fun things. I walked to the grocery store (it was a GORGEOUS day, so sad I spent most of the day inside painting). This evening, I went to a foster parent dinner. Even though I am not a foster parent yet, I was invited by the mom of a little girl I will be watching in a couple weeks. I knew quite a few people there since they are foster parents of some of our transplant kids. A couple of them had kids pass away this year, so it was nice to be able to give them hugs and let them know I am still thinking about them. I think I will be able to stay pretty busy doing respite care, but that is on "my time" so I can do as much or as little of it as I want (and can give the kids back at a scheduled time...that's what I am used to doing anyway!).
I "texted" a few times with my friend about her baby. He came off the ventilator yesterday and so far doing well. He was in a swing for a while today, and she is able to hold him easier and probably more often. Next step is to get his kidneys working...this week breathing, maybe next week kidneys?! Continuing to pray for pee :o)
Alright, enough "stalling". Back to painting...
I have taken about a five hour break, so it is time to start up again (and hopefully finish a LOT earlier than last night because I have to be at work at 7). During my break, I did do some fun things. I walked to the grocery store (it was a GORGEOUS day, so sad I spent most of the day inside painting). This evening, I went to a foster parent dinner. Even though I am not a foster parent yet, I was invited by the mom of a little girl I will be watching in a couple weeks. I knew quite a few people there since they are foster parents of some of our transplant kids. A couple of them had kids pass away this year, so it was nice to be able to give them hugs and let them know I am still thinking about them. I think I will be able to stay pretty busy doing respite care, but that is on "my time" so I can do as much or as little of it as I want (and can give the kids back at a scheduled time...that's what I am used to doing anyway!).
I "texted" a few times with my friend about her baby. He came off the ventilator yesterday and so far doing well. He was in a swing for a while today, and she is able to hold him easier and probably more often. Next step is to get his kidneys working...this week breathing, maybe next week kidneys?! Continuing to pray for pee :o)
Alright, enough "stalling". Back to painting...
That's Gonna Hurt
I just finished the first coat of paint on my basement project. Already my neck, back and arms are sore and I pretty much HAVE to do the second coat tomorrow (I mean, later TODAY!) because then I am not off again until Tuesday (and, I'm thinking I won't want to do much of anything after working three days in a row!). I thought that I was a person who liked to paint...now I'm not so sure. And, I know why the bedroom painting job last summer was so much fun...I got to visit with my friend while SHE did the work (she wouldn't let me help anyway!).
So, it will be 2:30 in the morning by the time I get into bed. Another fun-filled day of painting awaits me...oh joy...just a reminder that this was MY idea...maybe that will help!
So, it will be 2:30 in the morning by the time I get into bed. Another fun-filled day of painting awaits me...oh joy...just a reminder that this was MY idea...maybe that will help!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Painting is Hard Work!!
I am still planning to get the first coat of paint on today, but it is a lot more work than I remembered! Of course, the other three rooms that have been painted at my house were bedrooms, so a lot smaller than the basement. I painted one wall of my bedroom by myself, so that wasn't too much work. The second bedroom that was painted I did with a friend. The third bedroom was mostly done BY a friend, so of course that wasn't NEARLY as much work for me!
I did get kind of a "late start" on starting my project because I went to work out, got my vacuum fixed, stopped by my sister's to borrow a step ladder, actually went to buy the paint, and got my minutes from last week's meeting edited. I washed the walls, taped, and got the carpet all covered. So, not TOO bad, and hopefully I won't be up too late!
I went to a friend's house for dinner and hung out with her, her husband, and her "baby" (he is already 20 months old!). It was nice to catch up with her. She doesn't live TOO terribly far from me (only about a 20 minute drive), but we don't get together very often. We went on a walk which was fun too.
Well, I best be getting back to work on my "project"...I did take some "before" pictures, so will post those when I am done. Good night (sort of!).
I did get kind of a "late start" on starting my project because I went to work out, got my vacuum fixed, stopped by my sister's to borrow a step ladder, actually went to buy the paint, and got my minutes from last week's meeting edited. I washed the walls, taped, and got the carpet all covered. So, not TOO bad, and hopefully I won't be up too late!
I went to a friend's house for dinner and hung out with her, her husband, and her "baby" (he is already 20 months old!). It was nice to catch up with her. She doesn't live TOO terribly far from me (only about a 20 minute drive), but we don't get together very often. We went on a walk which was fun too.
Well, I best be getting back to work on my "project"...I did take some "before" pictures, so will post those when I am done. Good night (sort of!).
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Hi-Cal Day
I definitely went over my calorie allotment for the day! (I'm pretty sure I do that most days, but today was exceptional!)
My day started off with coffee and scones at my friend's house. We had a GREAT visit (it had been a while since we "chatted" and it was nice to catch up). She and I have been friends for a LONG time! (probably since her daughter was born, and she is in 7th grade!) She has "talked me through" many different "issues" over the years, and also helped me celebrate the fun and exciting times.
I puttered around my house for quite a while after that (and, actually don't think I did any snacking during that time which could be my "saving grace"). I ran the dishwasher and did a little bit of organizing. I'm not quite sure if I will be ready to start painting tomorrow since I still have some work stuff to do, but hopefully I can be "speedy" with that and then get to work!
I picked up my friend from the hospital at nearly 2:00 (the team hadn't done rounds yet, but she was hungry and decided not to wait any longer!). We went to a Greek place and I had my FIRST Gyro! (It is kind of fun that I had my first gyro with her...that will be a nice memory! The "serendipitous" part of THAT story is that JUST last night, my parents were telling me the best place in town to get gyros. I informed them that I had never had one. When my friend called me, she suggested we get gyros for lunch...I knew EXACTLY where to go to get a good one...craziness!) It was DELICIOUS! We stopped by the post office so she could mail a care package to her family. I had to stop by Employee Health, then at Walgreen's and the grocery store on the way home.
I wasn't home long before I left again to attend a baby shower for one of the nurses. Of COURSE I was still stuffed from the gyro, but how can you NOT eat at a gathering like that! I actually didn't do TOO badly and had some fruit and veggies (with my Bud Light), but probably shouldn't have even tried to fit anything else in my stomach. It was fun, but I couldn't stay very long because I had a meeting at 7:00. Of COURSE the meeting (an information session about the International Transplant Nurse Society) was at The Olive Garden! I was COMPLETELY stuffed, but decided I HAD to get something. I ended up getting a dessert drink with Kahlua, Amaretto, ice cream, chocolate syrup...now THAT is some healthy stuff!
It isn't even 11:00 yet, but I'm tired and going to try and go to sleep. I did vacuum the basement (with my partially broken vacuum...I need to take it to the repair shop tomorrow) and moved what little furniture there is to the middle of the room. I DEFINITELY need to go to Curves tomorrow (AND probably should go running too, but hopefully I will be painting, and that is at least a TINY bit of exercise!).
Good night!
My day started off with coffee and scones at my friend's house. We had a GREAT visit (it had been a while since we "chatted" and it was nice to catch up). She and I have been friends for a LONG time! (probably since her daughter was born, and she is in 7th grade!) She has "talked me through" many different "issues" over the years, and also helped me celebrate the fun and exciting times.
I puttered around my house for quite a while after that (and, actually don't think I did any snacking during that time which could be my "saving grace"). I ran the dishwasher and did a little bit of organizing. I'm not quite sure if I will be ready to start painting tomorrow since I still have some work stuff to do, but hopefully I can be "speedy" with that and then get to work!
I picked up my friend from the hospital at nearly 2:00 (the team hadn't done rounds yet, but she was hungry and decided not to wait any longer!). We went to a Greek place and I had my FIRST Gyro! (It is kind of fun that I had my first gyro with her...that will be a nice memory! The "serendipitous" part of THAT story is that JUST last night, my parents were telling me the best place in town to get gyros. I informed them that I had never had one. When my friend called me, she suggested we get gyros for lunch...I knew EXACTLY where to go to get a good one...craziness!) It was DELICIOUS! We stopped by the post office so she could mail a care package to her family. I had to stop by Employee Health, then at Walgreen's and the grocery store on the way home.
I wasn't home long before I left again to attend a baby shower for one of the nurses. Of COURSE I was still stuffed from the gyro, but how can you NOT eat at a gathering like that! I actually didn't do TOO badly and had some fruit and veggies (with my Bud Light), but probably shouldn't have even tried to fit anything else in my stomach. It was fun, but I couldn't stay very long because I had a meeting at 7:00. Of COURSE the meeting (an information session about the International Transplant Nurse Society) was at The Olive Garden! I was COMPLETELY stuffed, but decided I HAD to get something. I ended up getting a dessert drink with Kahlua, Amaretto, ice cream, chocolate syrup...now THAT is some healthy stuff!
It isn't even 11:00 yet, but I'm tired and going to try and go to sleep. I did vacuum the basement (with my partially broken vacuum...I need to take it to the repair shop tomorrow) and moved what little furniture there is to the middle of the room. I DEFINITELY need to go to Curves tomorrow (AND probably should go running too, but hopefully I will be painting, and that is at least a TINY bit of exercise!).
Good night!
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