(Almost) Wordless (Almost) Wednesday

We're keeping busy here and I'm still having a hard time keeping up with blogs/blogging. I miss that, but am enjoying this "season" very much, so it is what it is... We had a super fun birthday party...here is a collage of some of my favorite pics.

Hopefully I'll have time for more "words" soon. Enjoy.

G0od night :)

Hard to Believe

It's SO hard to believe that exactly one year ago I became an aunt! My nephew is one and SO much fun! A year ago, I'm sure I had "big plans" for my one-year post (I probably also thought I'd have a gift bought and maybe some cool collages or something made!). I never could have imagined where this year would take me or how much I would LOVE being an aunt (well, I pretty much knew I would love it!)

This may not be the "grand post" I had planned and I may be doing last-minute shopping before the party on Saturday, but I love this boy so much. He is so silly and makes us laugh all the time. He loves to try and figure things out. That boy LOVES to dance! He has grown and changed so much during this past year. I am looking forward to many more fun years being his favorite aunt :)

Happy First Birthday to my Amazing Nephew!

Going Good

(or going well!)

I just wanted to pop in with a post in case anyone was wondering about me. I really miss blogging and reading blogs, but guess that's what happens when you have kids! I'm hopefully back to working full-time (please, please, please!) We've been busy doing lots of fun things (it has been raining doing LOTS of indoor things!) If it was just the little one, I probably could blog during her long naps and after she goes to bed, but I feel bad being on the computer when the older one is home sitting next to me on the couch.

So, that's all for now...until the next time. Enjoy the summer! :)

Saying Nothing

My last post was called "As I Was Saying" as I wrestled with what I coulda/woulda/shoulda said. I tossed and turned that night (probably since I was afraid I wouldn't wake up to my alarm since it had been a LONG time since I had to get up that early but also probably because I wasn't sure if I had done the "right" thing).

I am SO glad that I took the time to write that post because I got some really great comments. I also talked about it at work yesterday (I ACTUALLY got to work...of course, I didn't get to work today, so my next two paychecks are going to be crappy, but that's for another day...) and got some really good feedback too. I talked about learning from mistakes and one nurse said "well, most people have 15 years before they have to deal with a 15-year-old". True, very true.

Laurie in Ca had a real-life example to share with me and her perspective helped a TON. She wrote "...the bond of siblings runs so deep and being moved from one place to another is traumatic and so scary for them...They already know their lives are temporary no matter how loving the caregivers are." It really is true that they are the only "constant" the other has right now and to try and take that away from them really would be detrimental.

However, that doesn't mean that I can set limits and remind "M" that she needs to be a kid doing things without her little sister. I'm actually thankful that I DIDN'T say anything (I debated on whether or not to say something when I got home from work yesterday) because last night went MUCH better and I could have screwed up a good thing by saying the wrong thing! "M" talked on the phone to her friend while I made sure "L" gave her privacy (and me too). Fifteen year olds SHOULD be able to talk to their girlfriend on the phone without their mom and sister around! She didn't even come near me when I told "L" it was time for her bath and went off to do laundry and "hang out" while I did that. Even when "L" was whining at bed time that she wanted "M" to put her to bed, "M" allowed me to do it and was okay with me telling "L" that M wasn't ready to go to bed, but would be there later. L fell asleep pretty quickly even without M there (M fell asleep on the couch so didn't actually go to bed, but that's not MY fault!)

I'm really feeling blessed with these girls because they really are no trouble at all. It's actually kind of nice having someone here to share meals with, play games with, sit outside on the front porch and chat with, etc. There is very little whining from the 2 1/2 year old and the 15-year-old cleans way more than I do (speaking of...I should probably make sure there aren't any dirty dishes in the sink when she gets home and maybe should sweep the kitchen floor!)

Since I unfortunately/unexpectedly got today off work, I got to sleep in :) I also got half of my performance evaluations done. I HATE doing them, so have put them off for weeks. I have to do three peer evaluations and a self-evaluation. I did one peer evaluation that wasn't very good (the person is often rude and rarely does more than the bare minimum). I had a hard time with that and made a bunch of calls to my co-worker friends before finally reaching one who assured me that I just needed to tell the truth. The other peer evaluation I did was for someone that I really enjoy working with, but some how the numbers didn't add up to the "above standard" even though I wrote a lot of "above standard"/"outstanding" comments. The peer I have left is someone who has worked on my floor for a LONG time, but isn't quite "stellar". I had to do her evaluation last year too and it was tough. I think she has been trying to improve, but I saved that one for next-to-last since it will be hard. My self-evaluation will probably take the longest since "tooting my own horn" is difficult, but necessary if I want a raise! Work will be strange when I finally go back because there are LOTS of changes happening that don't seem that great. Two people who do amazing work just had their jobs cut. It really is unbelievable and I'm not sure the "higher ups" realize how much those people did (they are "reorganizing" and creating one job from those two people's jobs...this is not sitting well with the staff nurses on my floor!)

Okay, there's my work rant...ha! I noticed that there was a new way to create new templates on here and decided to try it out. I think I like the changes...any thoughts?! Here is a photo that Ginger took of me at the Zoo. I took it off fb, so it probably isn't the best quality, but I love it :) Too bad circumstances didn't allow for many photo-ops because I would have LOVED to have more photos like this...next time :)

Ta-ta for now :)

As I Was Saying

Yep, honeymoon definitely over (or at least on a "break").

Oh, you were fun while you lasted...trips to the zoo, the park, the swimming pool. Catching fireflies watering the flowers, and drawing with sidewalk chalk. Coloring pictures and playing with Barbies. Singing to the radio and drinking smoothies.

Back to work tomorrow, so it's going to be early to bed for me.

AFTER I write about the "event" that led to my "need" to journal before going to bed.

We were having a grand old time making smoothies, then drinking them while we listened to music (and sang). There was "spillage" of a smoothie in the kitchen during the making process and the nearly-three-year-old was "warned" to be careful. Since we were drinking them in the living room on the couch where there was carpet, there were constant reminders (while in the back of my mind I knew that the likeliness of there NOT being at least a little spill was slim-to-none, even WITH all of the "warnings".) And so, in an act of silliness, the little one dumped nearly an entire glass of strawberry smoothie on the carpet.

I will admit to not being 100% calm, but I made her sit down on the couch while I got stuff to clean. Of course, her sister came and scooped her up "saving" her from my "anger" (I may have slightly raised my voice, but did not yell at her). I had her help me spray the carpet and "forced" her to sit near me while I cleaned...the whole time she was crying and the "mother hen" was watching. After I was done (pretty darn sure that it isn't coming out with MY carpet cleaner), I gave her a hug and told her I knew it was an accident, but we had talked about being careful. I decided it was bed time and her sister reluctantly let me be the one to take her to brush her teeth and then gave in to her tearful request for her to be put to bed by her sister instead of me...

I am sitting her wishing I had handled things a little differently, like maybe coming right out and telling "M" that I was handling things and she should "butt out" but not really in those words. "M" is a GREAT help (I can't complain when dishes and vacuuming are done without prompting!) but at some point, I probably DO need to come out and remind her that she is not "the mom" here. I don't exactly know how to do that, or if it is something that needs to be done in the very near future. I haven't imposed much "authority" in these nearly two weeks since the girls have been here, mostly because it hasn't felt like I had to do much. I guess maybe this is why one of the caseworkers was "worried" about me having a teenager! It is one thing to have authority over a two year old, but putting a 15 year old in her place (especially with something like her trying to be the parent) is more challenging than I thought it would be!

I suppose this was bound to come some time! I'm all about learning, so hopefully I have learned from my "mistake" and handle things a little bit differently next time (You, M, go somewhere else while I handle this with L; you are not the "mom" here...something!)

Well, I'd better head to bed. I haven't worked in nine days, so hopefully I remember how to do my job!

Good night.

Honeymoon

Tomorrow is my last day with the girls before I go back to work. It definitely feels like a "honeymoon" which is funny since my last post was "Wedding Weekend"...ha! So far, things are going pretty well/very well, and I'm trying not to think like this is the "honeymoon" and things will get harder, but it's hard to believe there won't be challenges.

The visitation agency called and apologized to me (and apparently to the mom as well) for the mis-communication/no communication. So, I feel better about that and passed the apology on to the caseworker and to the older girl (M) so she can let her mom know too. We now have a visit schedule and I just need to figure out if it is better for me to have someone else watch them on those days or if those are the days I should be off work. Kind of a tough call. I'm planning to have my sister watch them, so it would be a shorter day if she had them while I worked on visit days. I guess I'll have to see what she thinks.

Today, we went to the park with my sister and nephew. The little one (L) likes him and says his name SO cute! She asked for her own picture of him and carried it around this evening...adorable!

Yesterday, we went swimming and are planning to go back to the zoo tomorrow. I've been trying to get M to do things with her friend, but she hasn't since Friday. Today I "made" her play Skip-Bo with me and it looked like I was torturing the poor girl, but then she wanted to play a second game and took it with her to her visit. I guess she's a "normal" 15-year-old...half the time she won't speak to me and then randomly she'll say a bunch of stuff. She loves to sing, so I've been encouraging that and she's been able to use her MP3 player and my netbook to play music/sing. She is a big help and does the dishes after pretty much every meal. She has been letting me do more things with L, but I still need to work on getting them each their "alone time" (I suppose it's been less than 2 weeks and trust takes time!)

They came with me to my 9:30 softball game. L talked to my aunt and cousin and M listened to music, but did pay attention to some of the game since she said we played better this week than last week (definitely true, although we still lost!)

Well, I need to shower before going to bed and it's already pretty late. I'm going to have a really tough time getting up for work on Thursday after all this staying up late/sleeping in business!

It may be the honeymoon, but "honeymoons" can last for a long time, right?!

On a different note, Gitz has a weekly post called "Gitz Bits" and today one of the pictures in her post was about me...awesome! I feel so cool...ha! :) If you've never read her blog, it is terrific. She has an amazing attitude and chooses to seek joy even in the midst of pain and being home bound. I find myself thinking about her when I do things like sit on the front porch or go to church, things that she will likely never be able to do again. I love that she included me in her post this week (I "may" be a little star struck...I do call myself a Gitzen Girl Groupie...ha!)

Okay, time for bed.
Good night.

Wedding Weekend

Yesterday, my cousin got married out-of-state. It is the third of what will be MANY family weddings since I have 26 first cousins :) (My brother-in-law had to work and couldn't come which is why he isn't in the picture.) Since it was out-of-state, the girls could not go with me (plus, they had a visit today). So, they spent the weekend at their "previous" foster home (technically, they are the "current" foster home and I'm doing "respite" until the end of the month...it's a bit confusing!)

My first week with the girls went well. Of course, I haven't had to go to work yet, but I'm hoping my sister will be able to watch them once I "officially" become their foster mom. My biggest frustration has been with the visitation agency since the one guy didn't bring an ID either time he came to get them. Then, on Friday, they were supposed to get a visit but apparently, they weren't sure where to pick up the girls so just didn't show up anywhere (or make any phone calls)...super annoying and very sad for the girls. They are making up time with a longer visit today which is nice, but still annoying because it would have taken less than 5 minutes to make a phone call or two (and save the caseworker from getting a very angry phone call from the mom!)

I think I'm going to set a couple of TV/computer guidelines for "M". Not too many, but I really don't want her watching stuff that "L" should not be watching (I'm trying to be okay with the radio station choice and cringe every time the little one sings "Rude Boy" and much prefer it when she sings "You Belong to Me"). So far, she has just used my computer for youtube music, episodes of Glee, and fb, but I probably should have a "talk". We played "Mad Libs" which is good practice in knowing adjectives versus adverbs, etc. and I noticed that her spelling isn't all that great. So, I think I'm going to make a call to one of the high school English teachers for some suggestions of things to do this summer.

On Friday, "M" went swimming with her friend and I was with "L" during that time. She did fine and I think it's good if they can do things separately. :) They've been gone less than 48 hours and I miss them! I enjoyed talking to my family about them and they were excited for me.

I should try and get a couple more things done before they come home, so will end with a couple more cute pictures of my nephew from the wedding. He LOVES to dance, but I didn't get any pictures of that! I can't wait to see the photographers photos because my nephew was quite the ham whenever he came around! My sister was happy to have lots of help chasing him around everywhere because he is BUSY!!

I'm Still Here

I haven't had much of a chance to blog these days, but wanted to write a quick "I'm still here and doing fine" blog post.

It's hard to believe that it hasn't quite been a week since I first heard about the girls. We've been doing well. Dealing with the System is of course interesting and the lack of communication is crazy. However, the girls seem to be adjusting well to their "new home" (although it sounds like since I don't have day care and all that stuff set up, they are technically still in the other foster home and I am providing "respite care" until July 1).

I let the little one stay up until Midnight (we were having sing-along/karaoke and it's SO cute hearing a 2 1/2 year old sing Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus, etc. :) ) and it's nearly 1:30 and the 15-year-old and I just finished watching an episode of Glee. She IS fifteen and the little one DID take a late nap after the zoo, plus we don't have to get up early tomorrow, so hopefully I'm not a "bad mom"...ha!

The older one is trusting me more and more to be "the parent" to the little one. I don't have (m)any "rules" yet, but they really are well-behaved so I'm not sure what kind of "rules" need to be made... At the other foster home, they didn't really watch TV and Internet time was limited...I'm obviously a TV and Internet kinda person and she's FIFTEEN...we do a lot of things NOT involving TV and computers, and as cool as I am (ha!) it doesn't make sense to me to not allow her to do things I feel are "age-appropriate" (as long as we go outside and do social things/play games that aren't on the computer)...am I wrong?!

I went to mow this morning and when I came back in, the older one (M) had gotten out a coffee mug and put it by the pot for me...I thought that was SO sweet!

A guy from the State came today and talked to me and the girls. I let M and him talk for a little bit while I took L to the bathroom and she was crying when I came back. I feel really bad for these girls, but all of us are doing the best to make the most of this crappy situation. Sara wrote a really good post today (it actually made me cry) which includes the quote "Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." ~John Wooden. While her context was different, we really can't control this situation, but can control how we react to it.

Well, I should go to bed...just wanted to let my five-ish readers know that I'm still here and doing well :)
Good night.

Lots of Firsts

I wasn't kidding when I wrote that it has been a whirlwind! Even before I got my FIRST foster placement, there were lots of others!

• I visited Pittsburgh for the FIRST time and went to the zoo and the children's museum.
• I met Ginger's family for the FIRST time.
• I had steak salad and a special white pizza for the FIRST time.
• I went with Ginger and the kids to Mass and it was the baby's FIRST time.
• Not exactly sure why, but when I was there with Ginger and the kids, I felt for the FIRST time that I really was ready to try this "mom thing".

All in all, my time in Pittsburgh was just fabulous! It rained a couple of days which made it hard to do some of the outside things she had planned. Her new camera wasn't working, so we didn't take nearly as many photographs as either of us planned. Also, one day I was in my pjs until nearly 2:00 before I decided to shower and get dressed, so it isn't like we would have gotten photos of that...ha! Of course I cried when it was time to leave. When I got home, I found out that when her daughter got home from school, she said she wished I was still there...and I cried again (and then I had to get to work making calls to the caseworkers!) I've been pinching myself a lot these days, but it's just hard to believe how much fun we have together when it is "by chance" that we know the other exists. I'm not sure when we will get to see each other again, but we're both hoping for sooner rather than later. =)

• Last night was my FIRST night with the foster kiddos. I think I'll call them "M" (15) and "L" (2 1/2) (since that's the first letter of the names they go by and will be easier for me to remember!) Their current foster mom dropped them off and left once we got involved in playing. We played Barbies (my FIRST time in a little while!) and the little one explored my basement with all of it's toys. We watched some TV for a while (and I discovered that I'm getting a bunch of channels I'm not paying for...score! I'm already paying too much, so I SHOULD be getting those channels!) They went to bed without any fuss, although I'm supposed to try and get the little one to sleep in her own bed, but that didn't happen last night...baby steps!
• My FIRST "foster mom fail" is that I had forgotten to get sliced cheese at the store on Friday night. It was late and I knew I had forgotten it, but was done shopping and the cheese was on the other side of the store, so I decided it could wait. Of COURSE "M" wanted a sandwich and I'm like well, I'm not sure I have mayo or anything (I did, but no mustard) and the only cheese I have is shredded or in string cheese form. So, she made her sandwich with string cheese...at least I got a smile out of her over that one!
• Today, I brought them to Mass for the FIRST time and they also met my mom, dad, sister, and nephew for the FIRST time. "M" was super quiet and my nephew was walking toward "L" like he was going to attack her, so she was shy as well...I didn't make them stay long (we were at my mom and dad's house).
• I saw "16 and pregnant" for the FIRST time...and likely should not have been watching it with my 15-year-old foster daughter. I'm thinking we'll have to set some TV rules...any ideas/suggestions?! Apparently, they were only allowed to "earn" very small amounts of TV time in the other home. I wasn't "allowed" to watch MTV growing up, so maybe I should make the same rules...I don't know. I definitely think we should try to do things without the TV on considering the weather is nice and all of us could use exercise.
• I had my FIRST oh.my.goodness.the.foster.care.system.is.crazy moment. I thought that the girls had a visit with their mom at 2, so they would be picked up around 1:30. Well, that time came and went and some time around 2, I called to see if they had gone to the other house instead of mine. Nope. She called me at nearly 2:30 to say that the transport person had just left there. It's only about a 10 minute drive, so when it was nearly 3, I called the foster mom who has the brothers to see if THEY had been picked up. Nope, and they usually get picked up at 2. Oh.my.goodness! I felt really bad for "M" as she sat here knowing full well that the visitation agency is kinda crazy and usually come late, send different people, etc. She also knew that the later it got, the shorter her visit with her mom. I was on the phone with the other foster mom when a guy pulled up in this little sports car and I told her that I wasn't sure how five kids would fit in there because there aren't even that many seat belts! Apparently, he didn't know to come here, he didn't know who was picking up the boys, he asked if he could use my car seat since his doesn't work well, and he didn't have his ID but asked "M" to verify that he had transported them to many visits. "Cluster*" for sure...wow!
  
  I'm sure this is the FIRST list of many FIRSTS that will come during this journey! However, I still think it feels like a "good fit" for my FIRST placement. My anxiety right now is about going to work tomorrow and negotiating my schedule. We are working on the schedule for July and it will be picked up tomorrow to finalize. The schedule I have would have been "ok/not great" for me alone, but does not appear like it will work well for me + kids. Because of the holiday and the way we do our weekend teams, I'm supposed to have to work every weekend in July (besides the one I requested off for the transplant reunion and my grandpa's 85th birthday party) which is not-so-great when you have kids. I would have just changed it, but it looked like it would mess things up, so I'd rather talk one-on-one with my manager/the scheduling person. Any spare prayers that I can get my request to have Tuesdays (softball), Fridays, and Sundays (visits) off (basically, that I can get the schedule I want!) would be appreciated :) I think they each have an additional visit, but am not sure what days those will be.

I can't believe the number of fb comments I have gotten supporting me in this "endeavor". I really am feeling the love and that definitely helps! :)

Well, I'd better head to bed. I went back to the grocery store and we now have sliced cheese (and some of the other things that "M" said they like).

More to come...although I'm not sure what being a foster mom is going to do to my blogging/twitter habit ;)

Good night.

Life's a Changin'

I totally didn't stay focused today since I was calling/texting "everyone"! So, now it's late, I'm tired, but my house is not quite ready for two kiddos to come home to it tomorrow night. Granted, I'm planning to toss quite a bit of things into my spare room and my bedroom for the time being, but I still have stuff that HAS to be done before I go to bed (and I'm writing a blog post...yeah, I have "focus issues"!) I met the girls this afternoon and spent a couple of hours with them. My friends and family have been amazingly supportive and I haven't even told HALF of the people I know! I'm sure there will be challenges, but from the first meeting, the older one is quiet (but talked to me more than the other foster mom and I expected) and the younger one warmed up to me quickly and is quite the chatty one (super cute!) Eventually, I'll have to come up with some kind of blog names for them (or numbers or something).

The plan is for them to come over tomorrow after I get off work and stay the night. They will go back to their current foster home on Sunday afternoon and return to me on Monday after I get off work or Tuesday. The day care situation is being worked on (the day care I had checked out felt a little "sketchy" to me and apparently the caseworker does not want me taking the little one there...). The caseworker is looking for activities for the older one and is getting me a toddler bed. I am going out of town for a cousin's wedding next weekend, so they will be somewhere else next weekend (Friday-Sunday). It's a bit of a crazy transition, so hopefully is smoother than it seems!

Back to work...you know, having a place on the couch to sit is a good thing as is room on the kitchen table for plates ;)

Good night.

Whirlwind

I'll have to write more about my trip tomorrow since my four-ish hours of sleep just hit me. Here's some "snippits"...and then a "recap" of the whirlwind that took place after I got to the airport...

We went to the Zoo on Monday...here's Ginger's daughter looking at the Komodo Dragon.

My dad is a "letter carrier" and takes pictures of post offices wherever he goes. I do the same. This is now the children's museum.

Making paper at the children's museum with Ginger's son.

There was LOTS of snuggling of the baby girl, but I didn't have any pictures of that on my camera...

After I wiped my tears, I headed toward my terminal, stopping to pick up souviners for my family along the way. I hadn't eaten breakfast, so was looking forward to hash browns at McD's with my breakfast sandwich and second cup of coffee. Although it was only 9:15, when I reached the front of the line, I heard that they were out of hash browns. Boo on that! I was hoping that would be my only stroke of "bad luck" today (especially since I was getting on a couple of airplanes!)

I had a fairly long layover in Chicago and realized on the trip there that they do not have free wifi...boo on that too! I decided it was going to be worth the "investment" to pay for internet since my phone does NOT work well for that and I'd have been bored out of my mind just walking around/people watching. My $6.95 internet worked for a while then suddenly I lost my connection. I took that as a sign to break for lunch, but then it didn't come back. So, I called customer service (since I most DEFINITELY wasn't going to pay that much for an hour of service!) That was around a 20 minute call, but the connection came back...and I told them they needed to credit my account which they did :)

My flight leaving for home was delayed a bit and my phone was pretty much dead so I was hoping I wouldn't miss the call from my dad who was circling the airport waiting for me to get my bags. I had enough charge to listen to a voice mail that came from my caseworker about the placement of a 7-year-old boy who would be placed tomorrow. I talked it over with my dad and agreed that it sounded like a good "first placement".

I called her back as soon as I dropped my bags on the living room floor. As far as she knew, he hadn't been placed, but she had to call the agency that referred him. She called me back to say a message was left and I'd likely get a call later.

So, I went to put in my first load of vacation laundry. I noticed my answering machine light blinking, so pressed play as I loaded the washer (I rarely answer my house phone and don't always remember to look for messages). The first message was a different caseworker calling about two girls. That message was left on Tuesday. The second was about donation pick-up. The third message was the same caseworker asking if I'd had time to think about the placement of the two girls. That message was from today. So, I called the first caseworker back to let her know I wanted more information about this placement. She said I needed to call the one who left the message for further information, but asked me to keep her posted.

I found out that it is a fifteen-year-old and her two-year-old sister. They are in a foster home now whose circumstances led them to needing the girls moved. I was given the number of their current foster parents to gather more information, but it definitely sounded like it would work...ESPECIALLY when I found out that the older girl goes to the high school I did (I've written a LOT about how special that school is to me, so when I heard that, it was like God was shouting at me...I didn't even have to TRY to hear Him! I guess that's what they meant when they told me "when it's right, you'll know!) Since I have gotten two calls about them, that makes me think there is a good possibility they will indeed be placed with me. The current foster mom and I decided to let the caseworker guide us in the transition between homes (since they aren't a HUGE hurry, but it also isn't something that should be dragged on to the point that they are living in two different homes.) So, I will call her in the morning (I mean, in a few hours...ha!) and go from there. Even though I've made good progress in the organizing/cleaning department, I have quite a bit to do tomorrow. I think that an actual placement is the perfect incentive for that...ha!

More to come on that front...

On another not, I DID miss this boy who is walking all over the place now! I brought home an entire suitcase of clothes and shoes from Pittsburgh for him. He and his parents were excited :)

Good night.

How did "this" happen? (Re-post)

The day after I returned from my trip to Chicago last year was Ginger's birthday. It also was the day that Kristy's baby Hope was born. Since I'm in the midst of my third time "hanging out" with Ginger, I figured it would be nice to re-post the story of "how we met".

How did "this" happen? (Originally posted June 1, 2009.)

Well, besides the obvious of it not being anything a human could have planned, I figured maybe telling the "whole" story would be a fun second post about my trip. (Since, I am sure there are SOME people who actually are curious about the "earthly details" that allowed this to happen!) Believe me, I am still pinching myself that it actually occurred, even though I even have pictures to prove it really happened!

So, back in December, I wrote a post about Poppy Joy. I think it has a pretty good explanation about how I came to find "the Atlanta Eight"...or, how they were "brought" to me. For "whatever reason", I ended up talking to Kristy more than any of the other girls. We emailed, talked on facebook, and even texted every once in a while. Over time, although not TOO much time, I came to consider her a "friend", albeit a friend found in an "unconventional" manner (although, much more "conventional" in this day and age!) While I "vaguely" recall reading about her friends "Greg and Ginger", possibly from this post or this one, I didn't really give that much thought since it wasn't until later that I became a "regular reader" of Kristy's blog.

Then, in early February, I received an email from Laurie in Ca. She had been reading my blog for about a year at that point and is a "prayer warrior" for SO many people, myself included :o) Ginger had emailed Laurie regarding a gift she wanted to give to the Bolte's for Asher's First Birthday that was coming up on the 22nd. She asked Laurie if she would be willing to contact some of Kristy's friends to let them know in case they wanted to help. I, of course, was thrilled that Laurie included me and let Ginger know that I could help by "facebook messaging" some of Kristy's friends (I actually got a notice from the facebook folks since they considered what I was doing as potential spam...funny!) to let them know what she was organizing. I knew that since Ginger was doing something SO sweet for her friends that I would really like her. However, since the whole thing was a surprise, it would have been pretty obvious that something was up had we become "facebook friends" at that point, but we agreed that once the secret was out, this would be a "must" :o)

And so, the "facebook chatting" began, and we never seemed to run out of things to talk about. One night (April 8 if you want to get "technical") we were chatting into the wee hours as had become "typical" when I didn't have to work the next day :o) She was looking at plane tickets to Ireland, and "some how" the conversation turned from a nice vacation with her husband overseas to a girls' weekend with me...go figure! And, the reason I know the date of this particular "conversation" is that I felt the need to actually talk to her on the telephone (you know, to make sure she was "real"...ha ha!) which was nearly an hour long and was noted on my cell phone bill :o)

The rest, they say, is history...and we spent the next seven weeks planning our "getaway" that took place this past weekend. No worries, I WILL post a little more about this weekend even though we have not pooled all our pictures together yet. Now, I am not sure how Ginger's version of the story would compare to mine, but this is how I remember it all coming together...
____________________
Tonight, my friend from Curves asked me if I was nervous before I went. She said I didn't really act like it, but "yes", I most certainly had some jitters and was quite anxious at times. I had expressed those feelings to Ginger during multiple conversations to which she mostly laughed (because, I suppose you never would really think about someone being scared to meet you in person!) And, I think we were able to tackle lots of different topics this way and typing sure takes away some of the awkwardness of fumbling through a conversation with someone you have just met. You have a little bit of time to formulate responses, and it is easy to change topics. Of course, I suppose that "time" could make it easier to say things that are not true, but really, what would be the point of that?

Even after our trip was planned, there were little things that happened to solidify my belief that I REALLY would get along with Ginger "in real life". Little things that had me thinking that they were SO things that I would do, which definitely helped with my nerves!

Once I was on the plane, I was more excited (and tired!) than anxious. She and Lauren had to wait for me for an hour, so I definitely did not expect to see them as soon as I exited the plane. What a pleasant surprise! (In a text message shortly before that, I said that I hoped I would recognize them...[joking of course since OBVIOUSLY I had seen photos!]...I noticed them right away, and we greeted each other with the big hug I felt like I had waited FOREVER to give!)

After grabbing our luggage, we hopped the train and headed to the hotel. When we discovered that ALL of us have a little "quirk" that requires us to eat breakfast food prior to having lunch, I was instantly free of any leftover uncertainties about the decision to meet up with someone I "met on the internet". We found our traveling styles to be more than compatible, with personalities that blended perfectly to create a weekend to remember. No cattiness, no uncomfortable conversations, no "drama" (at least none between the three of us!)...all of us willing to "go with the flow", but not to the point of being unable to make decisions...simply PERFECT!

There were things that happened that do not translate well when shared with someone who was not there. Things like herding pigeons, frost bitten tongues, the water tower ghost, and cold feet are all kind of "had to be there" moments, no matter how many details you try to give...and, of course, there are also moments that are "ours" and ours alone...

And then, there were things that only God could have done. Like, planning to come back to the Art museum when it was free and then being stopped by a woman who "happened" to have a pass that would allow three more people in for free right then. Or, the fact that I somehow "forgot" to bring a long-sleeved shirt even though I was going to a mid-western city in MAY and then found the shirt I am wearing in this photo for less than $10. I picked it up off the rack and Ginger noted the brand right away..."dandelion white"...(dandelions are VERY special to Kristy and "White" is her maiden name...seriously!) And then, to get back to the hotel and have it fit PERFECTLY is almost beyond comprehension...

I am sure there are more stories that could be shared, but I want to give Ginger a chance to tell her version of the story as well :o) And, how about that the newest Bolte Baby, Miss Hope Amelia waited until we were back from our trip to be born on Ginger's birthday?!

I had to leave early in order to be home for my sister's baby shower. I was told more than once that it just was not the same without me there...I do not have words to describe how that makes me feel inside... I definitely think this will be the first of many "visits"...her daughter even referred to me as one of her "bestest friends"...and what could be sweeter than that?!

(Ginger...this picture is for you...quite the transformation from how I left you, don't you think?!)

Well, I think I probably should end this story for now...if I think of anything more to share, I definitely will (and, if I end up making a slide show, I will do that too!)

Happy Birthday Ginger, and Happy Birthday Hope!
Good night.

Slide Show Repeat

After I returned from Chicago, I created a slide show of pictures from my trip. I'm not exactly technologically savvy, so was rather proud of how it turned out. I can't tell you how many times I have watched it (I even watched it on Friday in between packing!) I'll actually re-post part of the original post from June 11, 2009. (I had technological difficulties while posting it and am still not sure if everyone who wanted to see it could see it...if it's something that you want to see and you can't, let me know! :) )

Worth the Wait? (Originally posted June 11, 2009)
Yes, I realize that it is 2:30 in the morning, but I have been working on my pictures from my trip for days and it is finally ready. It was "approved" by Ginger and she "requested" I post it "sooner rather than later". So, here you go! There is music, so if you are watching it from my blog, you may need to pause my other music. I am sorry that the slides with words on them go so fast...I had more than my share of "issues" putting it together and was tired of fighting my computer (not that I ACTUALLY would have known how to fix the problem!), so this is what you get. Enjoy!

**Ahh, that may have been a "teaser"...I'm not sure if my link works or not...if you want to watch it and you cannot, please let me know by either emailing or leaving a comment...darn technology!**

From Chicago Slide Show

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/cu8PlDuxrJgRIokaOSS7Rw?authkey=Gv1sRgCIm5seihx__bag&feat=directlink

Since the quotes go by WAY too fast, I decided to go ahead and "list" them here. It will also be nice for me to have them all in "one place" for future reference!
"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." ~Anais Nin

"I don't believe in accidents. There are only encounters in history. There are no accidents." ~Pablo Picasso

"The most wasted of all days is one without laughter." ~e e cummings

"Hugs are the universal medicine."
"In the sweetness of friendship, let there be laughter and sharing of pleasures." ~Kahlil Gibran

"Never go on trips with anyone you do not love." ~Ernest Hemingway

"That is the best--to laugh with someone because you both think the same things are funny." ~Gloria Vanderbilt

"The world would be so lonely, in sunny hours or gray. Without the gift of friendship to help us every day." ~Hilda Brett Farr

"Life is to be fortified by many friendships. To love and to be loved is the greatest happiness of existence." ~Sydney Smith

"Happiness is time spent with a friend and looking forward to sharing time with them again." ~Lee Wilkinson

"Never shall I forget the days I spent with you. Continue to be my friend, as you will always find me yours." ~Ludwig van Beethoven
____________
Just a couple additional quotes that didn't make it into the slide show (since I spent a good portion of the day looking up quotes, I may as well share them!)

"Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live."

"A laugh is a smile that bursts." ~Mary H. Waldrip

"A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked." ~Bernard Meltzer

"Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never, ever the same."

Post #800

I seriously can't believe this is my 800th post...or that I started this blog three years ago! Time sure does fly (and apparently I really enjoy posting to my blog!)

I missed my 700th post by a couple of days, but wrote about it here.

I did catch both my 600th and my 500th posts, both of which have "re-caps" of the previous post "milestones".

Exactly one year ago today, on May 29, 2009, I met Ginger for the very first time in Chicago. Today, I am flying to her home and meeting the rest of her family. There is no coincidence in this (I am a big fan of "dates", so I definitely kept this date in mind. Since it is a holiday weekend that is not MY holiday to work, it worked out perfectly...and I will not take the credit for that!)

The night/early morning before I left for Chicago, I wrote the following post. I feel that it is worth repeating, so will post it in its entirety here, along with the addition of a video of the song I posted. Enjoy :)

What is a Friend? (originally posted May 29, 2009)

A friend is one of the nicest things you can have,
and one of the best things you can be.
A friend is the one who will always be beside you,
through all the laughter, and through each and every tear.
A friend is the one thing you can always rely on;
the someone you can always open up to.
A friend is a sanctuary.
A friend is a smile.
A friend is a hand that is always holding yours,
no matter where you are.
A friend is a feeling of forever in the heart.
~Collin McCarty

I have been thinking a lot about friends recently, and have been waiting for just the right moment to post this poem. I have decided to leave my lap top at home for this vacation, and am planning to set this entry to post right around the time I meet up with Ginger and Lauren.

Friends have kind of been a funny thing in my life. In elementary school, I went through a couple "best friends", but mostly I was friends with everyone (which, unfortunately, did not really translate to getting invited to the "cool parties") In high school, I was fortunate to have a couple "best friends" with whom I remain very close. (Remember, our very own "fifteen feet of fun"?!) But again, friends with everyone was kind of "my thing" and that pretty much continued through college. I am still friends with one member of "AMEALAKA" :o)

I had coffee today with a friend I have known since I baby-sat her kids who are now 14 and 18. She and I talked for over three hours and it was AWESOME! And, in total "un-randomness", I stopped by Target on the way home to pick up a couple things and ran into my friend (totally unflattering picture of us here) who was in town from a state away as her son is evaluated for a second transplant. They actually were stopping by Target on their way out of town, so it was GREAT to get to see her! Of course, I have my friend that I met on the beach when we were ten. There are friends I have met through work, through church, through school, and yes through this here blog (I was going to link to that, but you are already here!)

I have friends from coast to coast, from north to south, from small towns to big cities. I have friends with families, and friends who are single or do not yet have children. I have a few friends who have had the basically "drama-free" life that I have been privileged to experience, and many who have endured the darkest times I hardly knew existed.

There are friends who came to me in ways I never could have imagined, and those who arrived when I needed them the most. Friends who make me laugh. Friends who put life in perspective. Friends who encourage. Friends who have so much faith in God even when life has given them so many reasons to stop trusting Him. Friends who let me be who I am and are okay with that. Friends who listen. Friends who always have words of wisdom. Friends of all shapes and sizes, from all economical, family, and religious backgrounds. Friends of all different ages. (For living a pretty "sheltered" life, I do have a rather diverse group of friends and I LOVE that!)

I have lived alone long enough and gone places alone more times than I can count. However, to say that I do not have jitters going into this weekend would be a lie (and, if you have read this blog long enough, you know that I not only have troubles keeping secrets, lying is definitely not something I even attempt because it would not be successful!) I don't remember my first day of kindergarten, but I imagine this is what it may have felt like. I am SO excited and know that there will be open arms and great people waiting for me in that airport, but my hands still shake as I think about this "plan" becoming a reality in a few short hours (probably should start packing since my ride is coming in six hours!)

I will close this post on friendship with the lyrics to a song I absolutely adore. I have listened to it SO many times and it still brings tears to my eyes (not ALL the time now, but SOMETIMES!) It is from the musical Wicked.

(Elphaba):
I'm limited
Just look at me - I'm limited
And just look at you
You can do all I couldn't do, Glinda
So now it's up to you
For both of us - now it's up to you...

(Glinda):
I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you...

Like a comet pulled from orbit
As it passes a sun
Like a stream that meets a boulder
Halfway through the wood
Who can say if I've been changed for the better?
But because I knew you
I have been changed for good

(Elphaba):
It well may be
That we will never meet again
In this lifetime
So let me say before we part
So much of me
Is made of what I learned from you
You'll be with me
Like a handprint on my heart
And now whatever way our stories end
I know you have re-written mine
By being my friend...

Like a ship blown from its mooring
By a wind off the sea
Like a seed dropped by a skybird
In a distant wood
Who can say if I've been changed for the better?
But because I knew you

(Glinda):
Because I knew you

(Both):
I have been changed for good

(Elphaba):
And just to clear the air
I ask forgiveness
For the things I've done you blame me for

(Glinda):
But then, I guess we know
There's blame to share

(Both):
And none of it seems to matter anymore

(Glinda):
Like a comet pulled from orbit
As it passes a sun
Like a stream that meets a boulder
Halfway through the wood

(Elphaba):
Like a ship blown from its mooring
By a wind off the sea
Like a seed dropped by a bird in the wood

(Both):
Who can say if I've been
Changed for the better?
I do believe I have been
Changed for the better

(Glinda):
And because I knew you...

(Elphaba):
Because I knew you...

(Both):
Because I knew you...
I have been changed for good...

Thank you for being my friend. I know that because of you, I have been changed for good...and am looking forward to MUCH more of that when I return from my vacation (one of these days I WILL have to return to work...ha ha!)

Preparing

It's T minus sixteen hours until my dad picks me up for the airport. All of my laundry is clean and my list of what I want to pack is complete. I probably will call Ginger at some point to make sure I have packed everything I will need for whatever she has planned for us. I'm just looking forward to "hanging out", but I know Ginger and it doesn't sound like she hangs around home NEARLY as much as I do and she has three kids! It sounds like the weather will be nice and spring/summer clothes don't take up as much room as winter ones do, so maybe my suitcase won't scream that I'm an over-packer!

Since my flight doesn't leave until the afternoon, I'm hoping that in addition to packing, I will also convince myself to leave my house in a better condition than it is now...as in, maybe I should vacuum!

I received another call about foster kids this morning. It was a 4-year-old boy and his 4-week-old brother. I am struggling with how I handled/responded to that call. The caseworker knew I was leaving town tomorrow, but thought maybe the placement could wait until I got back. I didn't sound convincing at all when I asked her to call back next week and didn't exactly give her a "yes" or "no". I got into the shower after that call and was really upset with myself. Isn't this what I wanted? The past couple of weeks, I have been amazed by God's plan for me that was completely different than anything I expected. Why should this be anything different? Yes, my little girl dreams were to have little girls of my own, but can't that happen even if my first kids are boys?! Absolutely, positively yes. And, hasn't the major "road block" to saying yes be my schedule and having time to arrange child care? This call would give me nearly a week to figure out those details. Haven't I said time and again (including yesterday!) that I think 4-year-olds are "the best"...and here's a call about a 4-year-old. So, how come I was unable to "pull the trigger" and say "yes, this sounds like the 'perfect' placement"?!

As soon as I got out of the shower, I left the caseworker a message telling her that I had thought about it a little more and it sounded like something I would want more information about. I called her back again later since I hadn't heard back. She let me know that they no longer needed placement for those boys.

However, I probably should continue to work toward making my house "kid ready". My basement is ready and the guest room should work for a number of different ages of kids, but likely not for all. I've gotten rid of maybe close to half the clutter, but my house is still way more cluttered than it should be.

Well, I have more preparing to do before getting on that plane tomorrow afternoon. I'm still thinking about getting posts ready to post while I'm on vacation because that just sounds like a fun thing to do :) The next post will be my 800th one!

Night.

Spoiled Brat

(with an under-emphasis on the "Brat"...hopefully!)

I'm kind of feeling "spoiled" right now. It seems like things keep on falling into place in my favor. So much so that it is nearly "unbelievable"...except that I know better. Sure, these past few weeks have had their rough spots (like this). However, as soon as I decided not to worry, the days ahead proved to be even better than I could have imagined...

I found out yesterday that they were not going to need people to work at the new hospital today. Since I have been working there, my "call off date" would likely be further back than my other co-workers. When I stopped by my floor for my interview yesterday, I checked the schedule to find that there was only one "extra" nurse scheduled and it was quite possible there wasn't going to be ANY "extra" nurses. For real?! The one day that I wouldn't have alternative plans for hours, I would actually be needed on my unit?! I didn't even have to be "on call" because someone called last night to say they would do that (it probably would have been my "turn").

Today was a REALLY nice day, which was much appreciated because I haven't had to deal with a "full load" of patients for quite some time! It was so nice, actually, that the other nurse in my area, myself, and our nursing assistant were ALL able to enjoy part of Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel since tonight was "movie night". All of the patients from my area were able to go and we were able to have some nachos, popcorn, and pretzels if we wanted. They have been doing movie nights once a month. Last month they showed The Princess and the Frog and I was able to stay for the entire movie. I only saw part of the movie today and it totally cracked me up...I'm going to need to see the whole thing some time! Being a pediatric nurse is so much fun (and challenging, but lots of times fun!) I am so fortunate to REALLY love what I do!

My experience at the new hospital was much more than simply "getting hours". I took on a leadership role I did not know that I had in me and am proud of the work that I did. It was a perfect fit for me to be able to share my knowledge while also being a "cheerleader" and calming influence. If I wanted to do some "deep thinking" (which I actually DO need to start doing more!), I would say that the person they saw there is the one that those who read this blog see. The first words I heard yesterday when I arrived were "raving reviews" from nurses who worked with me during the previous shifts. If it hadn't been 7:00 in the morning, I probably would have cried because the words were so genuinely kind. Even though I get positive feedback from my manager, I rarely get that kind of feedback from my peers. Those nurses respected and appreciated me enough to share that with my contact person. We are starting to work on our annual performance evaluations and I asked my contact person to share this feedback with my manager :) Again, this opportunity to work at the other hospital in a different capacity was so much better than I ever could have imagined both financially and personally...again, I'm spoiled ;)

My interview seemed to go well and I appreciate all the prayers and "good vibes". Thankfully, the "interviewer" was my friend from media relations, so I sat and chatted with her right up to the time they started taping to keep me from getting nervous. She said my answer to her first question was really good :) Later, I had trouble forming coherent words and sentences, but at least most of it was good! This was another little "out of the box" moment and I'm excited to "mingle" with the people at the fund raising event next month.

Maybe I just feel like a "spoiled brat" because I'm trying REALLY hard to find the best in every situation and remain positive as much as possible. I like to think that I've ALWAYS been a really positive person, and for the most part, that is probably true. However, things just seem a little bit different now and my eyes are truly open to blessing after blessing that are sent my way. Probably still "spoiled", but also simply because I realize how fortunate/"lucky" I am :)

Well, I was going to try and type up a few posts to "go" while I'm visiting Ginger. I will bring my net book with me, but likely won't write about my trip until I come back...at least I'm not planning to make "blogging" a priority (even though we met BECAUSE we blog...ha!) However, this post took me entirely too long and I'm tired. So, I'll either do that tomorrow or it is an "idea" that doesn't make it to reality.

Good night.
______________________________
My Dashboard says that I have made 796 posts. However, the "published" section says that I have posted 797 times. According to my home page, 100 posts in 2007 + 345 posts in 2008 + 259 posts in 2009 + 93 posts (so far!) in 2010 = 797 posts. Weird that they don't "add up"... However, I think I'll go with "majority rules" and count this as my 798th post so I can plan a special "800th post" if I so desire!

On Camera

I just got home from my 9:30 softball game. I can't believe we play SO late! I got to watch the entire season finale of The Biggest Loser before I left for the game. We won, making this our second win in a row and our record 2-2. I got a hit my third time up and also tagged a girl out at the plate (I LOVE that!) Of course, there's always at least ONE ball that finds my shin, but I'll be okay :)

Tomorrow, I'm hoping they will let me go work at the other hospital again. I did that yesterday and it is really nice. The nurses there are really frustrated learning the computer system and there are growing pains with figuring out communication and work flow. I was able to be a "cheerleader" with a positive attitude and encouraging words. It was very fun being able to do that! Also, if I work there, it will be easier to sneak away for an interview...

We have just started a music therapy program with funding from a donor. It is currently a part-time position, but they are wanting to make it full-time and more permanent. So, there is going to be a fund raising video and also a fund raising event. They wanted to interview a nurse and since I'm friends with the person in media relations who is in charge of the project, she asked if I would be that nurse. My director said I would be good "as long as my face doesn't get red"... So, it would also be MUCH better for my nerves if I don't have to leave my patients for the interview and not stress out about things that need to be done while I'm gone. They will allow me to leave the other hospital for the interview and then go back to finish the shift. I was given a question to "ponder" and hopefully will be able to make some sense when I talk, but also not sound "scripted". I'm very excited to be a part of this, and am going to TRY not to be disappointed if things don't work out the way I have planned... I have been thinking about my answer to my question, so hopefully I can remain calm and make some sense.

So, I decided to turn on my A/C since it is over 80 degrees in my house and I don't want to sweat all night long! I'm going to wash my hair tonight and get up early to make sure my hair and make-up looks nice (I hardly ever get THAT ready for work...ha!)

Four days until I see Ginger!

This is my 797th post...hard to believe I've been "blogging" for three years and posted nearly 800 times!

Good night...and, if you could send "good vibes" to me tomorrow afternoon (or prayers for calm, cool, and collected...ha!) that would be awesome :)

How about that?!

I really shouldn't be SURPRISED at how things seem to be "falling into place", but it's still amazing...

Nine days ago, I was SO sad about getting called off work AGAIN and wondering what I was going to do. I was trying REALLY hard to trust in God and not worry about how things were going to work out, but trust that they would. I posted this as my facebook status: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?...Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."... Matthew 6: 25, 34 )"

Then, three days ago, an amazing opportunity fell into my lap. I'm STILL counting my blessings! Honestly, I have been having to pinch myself that this is actually happening. Yesterday, I actually went to the other hospital and worked for nearly eight hours...some of which will be overtime pay...yes, OVERTIME...I can hardly believe it!

Tomorrow, I think it would be my turn to be "forced off" yet again. I worked today, but went home a little early because we only needed four nurses...there are EIGHT scheduled for tomorrow. I'm not exactly sure if the way this is being handled is "fair", but I am taking my blessings as they come and trying not to worry about "fair". There is a reason this is happening to me, and I just need to say "thank you" rather than question whether or not I deserve this.

As I was leaving (remember, it was 2 1/2 hours early), I ran into the parents of a patient who hasn't been on my floor in nearly six months. I think about them ALL the time, but don't just go down to the ICU to visit. I always "hope" that I will run into them some day, but since am rarely off the floor besides my walk in and walk out. Well sure enough, as I was about to go down the escalator, they were coming up! Seriously, how about that?! Not only that, but the mom immediately gave me a hug and sent her husband ahead. Now, I only took care of this patient for 1 1/2 shifts, so it is really special to have that kind of relationship with them. :) She and I visited for quite a while, and I shared with her this story of trusting Him and how things have worked out. She shared a similar/different story and it was just a beautiful conversation about faith, trust, and His promises (don't worry, I WILL provide...etc.) Seriously, our "chance meeting" couldn't have come at a better time because I was "dying" to share this story with someone besides the people who read this blog :) I really should try to arrange some kind of out-of-hospital meeting, especially since they have family in town and it would be fun to meet them.

Well, I suppose I should get ready for bed. This transition from not working to working kind of a lot has made me a little sleepy...ha! I can hardly believe I'm going on vacation in six days...I am SO excited!!

Good night.

Blogoversary

Updated at 2122...Hey now, I set this post to go at 1912, but it posted right after I wrote it...boo on that one :o( I wonder what happened...oh well, it's fixed now :)

Exactly three years today, on May 22, 2007 at 7:12 PM, I posted on this blog for the first time.

This is what I wrote (it kinda makes me laugh, especially at how short it is...my first few posts WERE really short and now my posts go on and on and on...ha!):
"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."

Well, I still have those 12 pounds and then some, have no clue how to access my myspace account, and use fb quite a bit. I still read lots of blogs (even more than I did then!). If I have added correctly, this is my 795th post (not 795 times of having something "interesting to say"...ha!) I can't believe how much has happened in three years. This blog and I, we've been through a lot together! Weddings and funerals, births and deaths, tough times and times of triumph. I have learned so much about myself and have grown in my faith. I have "met" many people who put life into perspective for me, those who choose joy even in the midst of pain, those who bring out the best in me, and love me for who I am. I was hoping that I would have "blog friends", but I never could have guessed that I would also gain "real friends" too. And, one week from today, I'll be landing in the the 'Burgh ready to wrap my arms around one of them :)

Happy three year blogoversary to me...and ALMOST 800 posts! I'll have to figure out something fun for that one :)

Watch Your Wishes

So, how many times have I said I missed work, how I really wanted to go back to work, how I NEEDED to go back to work?! Well, I definitely had to fight off the complaints today because I was EXTREMELY close to saying that I REALLY wanted to be at home! My days of staying up late caught up to me me and I am POOPED! My neck also still hurts which is really annoying (I AM getting a pedicure in the morning, so hopefully they have a massage chair that can at least do a LITTLE something with that!) It honestly shouldn't have been a bad day since I didn't have a "full load" of patients. However, my new patient came right at the time I wanted to eat lunch and my other patient had stuff that needed to be done. Needless to say, as hard as I tried to tell myself differently, I still found that having a 3:30 lunch is "really crappy". I actually felt awful by that point since I was tired and hungry and crabby and a little stressed...and reminding myself that I wanted/needed to work and that I do love my job.

I should be in bed asleep, but have been doing a little bit of catching up on twitter and blogs and some DVR shows (and having a green apple smirnoff :) ) But, my drink is almost finished and I'm fading fast, so should go to bed. I signed up for some extra shifts, but am not sure if I will get them. However, if I DO, then I'll need to get some sleep in order to function during them!

Pedicure in the morning...theme party at night...(Crazy pants or No pants...that will be interesting!) These are the same people who had the party to honor pizza delivery drivers...crazy folks, but fun party (have to work on Sunday, so not LATE partying, but good times :) )

Even though I got crabby and hungry and tired, I still love my job...and wishing to go back there is okay :)