One of whom was Steve Centanni. Steve shared an office with a dear friend of mine ... Kelly Wright ... and I often looked at the collection of humorous momentos or press creditials to impressive events that hung on the bulletin board and wall next to his desk. Centanni and his cameraman were kidnapped in Gaza on Tuesday. I literally screamed when I found out it was someone that I knew. I know that journalists "volunteer" (so to speak) to be there and we say the same for soldiers, but that does not make death or peril any less tragic or dimish the fear. As of this writing, no one has taken responsibilty for the kidnappings nor made any demands in exchange for their release. This is unusual when all other American abductions were successfully ended within a matter of hours. May we always keep those in harm's way in our thoughts and prayers.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Steve Centanni
I know that I have already posted today, but something has been going on that is troubling me. A little (very little) backstory on me...I used to work for Fox News Channel in Washington, DC. While I was there, I met many people...for this purpose I am referring to my fellow employees.
One of whom was Steve Centanni. Steve shared an office with a dear friend of mine ... Kelly Wright ... and I often looked at the collection of humorous momentos or press creditials to impressive events that hung on the bulletin board and wall next to his desk. Centanni and his cameraman were kidnapped in Gaza on Tuesday. I literally screamed when I found out it was someone that I knew. I know that journalists "volunteer" (so to speak) to be there and we say the same for soldiers, but that does not make death or peril any less tragic or dimish the fear. As of this writing, no one has taken responsibilty for the kidnappings nor made any demands in exchange for their release. This is unusual when all other American abductions were successfully ended within a matter of hours. May we always keep those in harm's way in our thoughts and prayers.
One of whom was Steve Centanni. Steve shared an office with a dear friend of mine ... Kelly Wright ... and I often looked at the collection of humorous momentos or press creditials to impressive events that hung on the bulletin board and wall next to his desk. Centanni and his cameraman were kidnapped in Gaza on Tuesday. I literally screamed when I found out it was someone that I knew. I know that journalists "volunteer" (so to speak) to be there and we say the same for soldiers, but that does not make death or peril any less tragic or dimish the fear. As of this writing, no one has taken responsibilty for the kidnappings nor made any demands in exchange for their release. This is unusual when all other American abductions were successfully ended within a matter of hours. May we always keep those in harm's way in our thoughts and prayers.
This, that and the other
It has been a couple of days since I last posted. I volunteered on Monday, which was exhausting but no less fulfilling. I will volunteer again tomorrow...unless I call in because I really want one of my last days before school to be free days with hubby. I may do that. There is a patient on the burn unit that I would like to be involved with, but I am just too wiped and selfish with my remaining hours of freedom right now. Classes begin next Thursday and I wasn't brilliant enough to plan far enough in advance to schedule a follow up eye appointment at JHU. With us now living farther away from Baltimore, it is more than a one day quick trip. I can be, I suppose, but it would be a miserable day. So, hopefully, we will go the night before and stay so that we only have one way to drive the following day.
This morning, I was a horrible doggy mom. While cutting a knot out of the fur underneath the big dog's ear (a task that she trusts me to do), I chopped into her ear. Oh my. It was so sad. She was bleeding and I felt horrible. It looked like a relatively bad cut b/c it was on the edge and therefore the skin split apart quite dramatically. But, we stopped the bleeding, put some rubbing alcohol on it and applied treats to mouth...life is good. For a second there, I thought that we may actually have to make a trip to the vet for a suture or two. This was troubling b/c we don't even know where to go. We haven't established a relationship with a new vet since the move. Anyway, big puppy is lying here in bed next to me and things are ok.
I got a lot done yesterday, including buying my books. Ok, I officially feel REALLY old. It wasn't just the 18 year old teeny boppers carrying boxes into the dorms, but even the supplies for class! I handed my schedule to the "woman" behind the counter and she returned with a stack of books and a box containing a little remote control looking thing. Apparently, this is for taking quizzes in class...or something. My chem prof is requiring it. I feel so old. Not to mention, I am completely out of shape. A fat, old woman...not too pretty for beginning school with a bunch of teenagers! That's ok, I used to gravitate to the old people in my class. They weren't idiots. They were serious. Not to mention, they had resources to make a project go well. I remember one project in one of my Health Admin classes. One of my group members was Debra, a very nice and easy going woman with discipline. She also worked for a well known hospital near my univ. So, while the other groups were putting together their H.A. projects in dorm rooms, we were in the radiology department of a Texas hospital getting exposure and input from other employees. I'm not stupid. ;) Don't misunderstand me, she was a very nice woman who I had befriended prior to the project.
Well, today I need to call the parking office and change the tag number of one of my cars that I listed for my parking permit. I really should look at the plate before I start typing...but NOOOO! Click, click, click, tap, tap, tap and I entered the wrong info. At least I got the make and model of the car correct , not to mention half of the plate. But, if I know anything, those rent-a-cops will nail you for anything. So, I best be changin' it.
I have decide to remain in my College Algebra class even though I have already taken it. Why? I got a C in it last time (a million years ago) and DO schools/AACOMAS will replace the grade with the higher one. So, provided I can pull something higher than a pitiful C...life will be good. If I can't, I better give up this whole idea of med school. Now God, PLEASE let me get a prof who doesn't refer to himself in the third person and tell people how stupid they are. Oh yes, good times.
Ok my reading public...all 5 of you...HA! I am gonna close here.
Hopefully, I will update again soon.
Hasta luego.
This morning, I was a horrible doggy mom. While cutting a knot out of the fur underneath the big dog's ear (a task that she trusts me to do), I chopped into her ear. Oh my. It was so sad. She was bleeding and I felt horrible. It looked like a relatively bad cut b/c it was on the edge and therefore the skin split apart quite dramatically. But, we stopped the bleeding, put some rubbing alcohol on it and applied treats to mouth...life is good. For a second there, I thought that we may actually have to make a trip to the vet for a suture or two. This was troubling b/c we don't even know where to go. We haven't established a relationship with a new vet since the move. Anyway, big puppy is lying here in bed next to me and things are ok.
I got a lot done yesterday, including buying my books. Ok, I officially feel REALLY old. It wasn't just the 18 year old teeny boppers carrying boxes into the dorms, but even the supplies for class! I handed my schedule to the "woman" behind the counter and she returned with a stack of books and a box containing a little remote control looking thing. Apparently, this is for taking quizzes in class...or something. My chem prof is requiring it. I feel so old. Not to mention, I am completely out of shape. A fat, old woman...not too pretty for beginning school with a bunch of teenagers! That's ok, I used to gravitate to the old people in my class. They weren't idiots. They were serious. Not to mention, they had resources to make a project go well. I remember one project in one of my Health Admin classes. One of my group members was Debra, a very nice and easy going woman with discipline. She also worked for a well known hospital near my univ. So, while the other groups were putting together their H.A. projects in dorm rooms, we were in the radiology department of a Texas hospital getting exposure and input from other employees. I'm not stupid. ;) Don't misunderstand me, she was a very nice woman who I had befriended prior to the project.
Well, today I need to call the parking office and change the tag number of one of my cars that I listed for my parking permit. I really should look at the plate before I start typing...but NOOOO! Click, click, click, tap, tap, tap and I entered the wrong info. At least I got the make and model of the car correct , not to mention half of the plate. But, if I know anything, those rent-a-cops will nail you for anything. So, I best be changin' it.
I have decide to remain in my College Algebra class even though I have already taken it. Why? I got a C in it last time (a million years ago) and DO schools/AACOMAS will replace the grade with the higher one. So, provided I can pull something higher than a pitiful C...life will be good. If I can't, I better give up this whole idea of med school. Now God, PLEASE let me get a prof who doesn't refer to himself in the third person and tell people how stupid they are. Oh yes, good times.
Ok my reading public...all 5 of you...HA! I am gonna close here.
Hopefully, I will update again soon.
Hasta luego.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Ms. P
I didn't recount my volunteer day on Thursday, so I thought I would before I returned for what promises to be a full day tomorrow.
On Thursday, I was planning to stay only until noon...b/c there was a ton or work to be done at home before the party on Saturday. We began the day with a call re: a pt who was losing her hair and wanted to talk to someone form the wig salon. Donna and I went up there and met a wonderful woman in Stage 4 with the sweetest demeanor and wonderful attitude. It was hard to believe that she had been through all that we knew that she had. But, this was her second time with cancer and she knew what to expect. We talked for a while and she decided to have the remainder of her hair shaved off to put a halt to the shedding. We talked to her in depth about what she was looking for in a wig and then went back downstairs. After spending an hour or so talking to these people, you have some idea about their personality. We chose 4 wigs, packed the clippers and other necessary items and headed back up to her room on the 6th floor. Ms. P was waiting for us. Not holding a cosmetology license (and having no desire to secure one) I am not allowed to cut hair nor wigs and that includes shaving. So, Donna takes care of all of that. Ms. P and I were talking while Donna was shaving and it was obvious that she was becoming emotional...as was I. I, thankfully, did not allow my emotions to show through, but sat down in the chair next her. Never having gone through it myself, I don't know how I would react to having my hair removed for such a reason. Truth be told, it startled me a bit. I am frankly surprised at how significant our hair is to our identity. This beautiful woman seemed to lose a bit of her gender identity as her hair fell to the floor. That was shocking to me. I have heard how cadavers are sometimes difficult to identify as a man or woman because of their lack of hair, but this being my initial experience with a situation such as this one, I was nonetheless surprised.
After the last of her hair had tumbled to the floor, we began pulling out wigs for her to try. She ended up choosing an adorable one that really looked quite nice on her. We laughed heartily as she told us the story of her last wig (from her first experience with cancer 12 years ago). Apparently, she had used regular hairspray on it (not designed for synthetic hair) and taken a curling iron to the wig as well. To say the least, it was in horrible condition afterward. I cracked a joke by using my "serious" voice and saying "On behalf of your new wig, I beseech you to..."and continued to list things not to do...especially things that she had already done. She was roaring. I was thrilled. She reached her hands out to us as we left and Donna and I each took one. It was a moment. We had spoken of God and her church and the people and activities she was looking forward to getting back to. Donna and I, both God fearing women, said we would be praying for her. She was appreciative. I had wanted to go back and visit before she left, but that was my last day before Monday's return and she is leaving today. I was sorry that this weekend was to be so busy and hope that she will call downstairs to the salon if she returns for treatment. (She lives in another state.) She was not certain of her diagnosis...either Non-Hodgkins or Hodgkins, either way it is a Lymphoma in stage 4. I do hope that she continues to have the attitude and spiritual life that she has enjoyed. She and her diagnosis do not match, but I guess I will be reminded of that a lot.
After leaving the room, while we were in the stairwell, Donna and I discussed how she seemed to become more emotional at times. Donna said that she could identify those times by the way her scalp tensed up and then I would sit down beside Ms. P...and it loosened again. I felt like a had made a difference and that was a wonderful feeling.
On Thursday, I was planning to stay only until noon...b/c there was a ton or work to be done at home before the party on Saturday. We began the day with a call re: a pt who was losing her hair and wanted to talk to someone form the wig salon. Donna and I went up there and met a wonderful woman in Stage 4 with the sweetest demeanor and wonderful attitude. It was hard to believe that she had been through all that we knew that she had. But, this was her second time with cancer and she knew what to expect. We talked for a while and she decided to have the remainder of her hair shaved off to put a halt to the shedding. We talked to her in depth about what she was looking for in a wig and then went back downstairs. After spending an hour or so talking to these people, you have some idea about their personality. We chose 4 wigs, packed the clippers and other necessary items and headed back up to her room on the 6th floor. Ms. P was waiting for us. Not holding a cosmetology license (and having no desire to secure one) I am not allowed to cut hair nor wigs and that includes shaving. So, Donna takes care of all of that. Ms. P and I were talking while Donna was shaving and it was obvious that she was becoming emotional...as was I. I, thankfully, did not allow my emotions to show through, but sat down in the chair next her. Never having gone through it myself, I don't know how I would react to having my hair removed for such a reason. Truth be told, it startled me a bit. I am frankly surprised at how significant our hair is to our identity. This beautiful woman seemed to lose a bit of her gender identity as her hair fell to the floor. That was shocking to me. I have heard how cadavers are sometimes difficult to identify as a man or woman because of their lack of hair, but this being my initial experience with a situation such as this one, I was nonetheless surprised.
After the last of her hair had tumbled to the floor, we began pulling out wigs for her to try. She ended up choosing an adorable one that really looked quite nice on her. We laughed heartily as she told us the story of her last wig (from her first experience with cancer 12 years ago). Apparently, she had used regular hairspray on it (not designed for synthetic hair) and taken a curling iron to the wig as well. To say the least, it was in horrible condition afterward. I cracked a joke by using my "serious" voice and saying "On behalf of your new wig, I beseech you to..."and continued to list things not to do...especially things that she had already done. She was roaring. I was thrilled. She reached her hands out to us as we left and Donna and I each took one. It was a moment. We had spoken of God and her church and the people and activities she was looking forward to getting back to. Donna and I, both God fearing women, said we would be praying for her. She was appreciative. I had wanted to go back and visit before she left, but that was my last day before Monday's return and she is leaving today. I was sorry that this weekend was to be so busy and hope that she will call downstairs to the salon if she returns for treatment. (She lives in another state.) She was not certain of her diagnosis...either Non-Hodgkins or Hodgkins, either way it is a Lymphoma in stage 4. I do hope that she continues to have the attitude and spiritual life that she has enjoyed. She and her diagnosis do not match, but I guess I will be reminded of that a lot.
After leaving the room, while we were in the stairwell, Donna and I discussed how she seemed to become more emotional at times. Donna said that she could identify those times by the way her scalp tensed up and then I would sit down beside Ms. P...and it loosened again. I felt like a had made a difference and that was a wonderful feeling.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Ahhh..
The party is over! It was fun, not everyone came...and we had wayyyyyy too much food. But, luckily, a neighbor who was here (and is the king of impromptu cookouts) called a cookout for tomorrow evening at 5. Simple solution? We are taking all the food!! That way, no one has to make anything and the food doesn't go to waste! Some of our friends drove 100 miles to get here and due to some really bad traffic...it took some 4 HOURS! Others just turned back. I don't blame them. I was so touched that someone would drive so long to be here for a few hours with us. But, I was really disappointed in those people who didn't call. They just didn't show up! Unfortunately, those people were quite abundant today. They accounted for 19...including kids. We had about 20. I was prepared for everyone. Oh well, that is the way it goes. We are wiped out and church is tomorrow morning.
I am too wiped to type any more.
Night all!
I am too wiped to type any more.
Night all!
Friday, August 11, 2006
StReSs
I thought that my ability to handle stress had improved but apparently I was wrong. Maybe it's the meds. Hopefully, things are just so screwed up still in my head that the slightest little thing is throwing everything out of whack. But, I would like to know why - with 24 hours before this thing - my husband has opted to sweep the basement when there is a gigantic mess in the rest of the house...you know the part that people will actually SEE?????
I guess a better question is why the heck am I bitching about this on my blog while he is working?
Stupid me.
I guess a better question is why the heck am I bitching about this on my blog while he is working?
Stupid me.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Randomness @ its best
Wow, this week is going by too fast. I one of my 2 volunteer days this week on Tuesday. I was in the wig salon..which is where I will be from now on..well...for a while..I think. Ok, so how's that for specificity? I don't know if I wrote about this or not and I don't want to surf away form this page right now to find out. If not, I will post an email that I wrote to a friend of mine explaining how it went. Saturday is the long awaited party. Well, not so long awaited really....and I could use a lot more time. But, if we wait until the house is complete, I will be well past residency and nearly retired. So, Saturday it is. Frankly, I am surprised at how many people are supposedly coming. Looks like well over 30. Many of them are driving 2 hours each way. Maybe we were liked more than was expressed for the past 5 years. Anyway, I am really looking forward to it, but Tuesday was gone to the Cancer Center and tomorrow morning is theirs as well. Don't get me wrong. I love being there, but this week is a little tight. I did bug out for tomorrow afternoon to give us more time to work around here though.
I am not a good hostess. I stress myself out way too much. We don't entertain much. But, when we do I am a wreck. I buy way too much food and freak out that everything won't be perfect. There will be kids at this one, so hubby and I went and bought some coloring books, bubbles and other toys to entertain them.
I don't even want to think about this thing right now. Going to go get in bed. The day began early with a knock on the door from the electrician while I was still in my PJs. Thankfully, the electrical stuff is finally done! It is so nice to see light fixtures hangin from the ceiling that we have only looked at in the box! Such a feeling of accomplishment. Another feeling of accomplishment...completing this blog entry.
'Night all.
I am not a good hostess. I stress myself out way too much. We don't entertain much. But, when we do I am a wreck. I buy way too much food and freak out that everything won't be perfect. There will be kids at this one, so hubby and I went and bought some coloring books, bubbles and other toys to entertain them.
I don't even want to think about this thing right now. Going to go get in bed. The day began early with a knock on the door from the electrician while I was still in my PJs. Thankfully, the electrical stuff is finally done! It is so nice to see light fixtures hangin from the ceiling that we have only looked at in the box! Such a feeling of accomplishment. Another feeling of accomplishment...completing this blog entry.
'Night all.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Life is facing in the right direction
While I am not yet back to 100%, I believe that things are at least facing in the right direction. We are having a party this weekend and have been working very hard to get things accomplished in preparation for that. We checked the forecast and, as of right now, it looks to be the best day in quite a while! Yeah!!! I called to change my program to the formal "Post-Baccalaureate Health Sciences Certification Program" and need to take some paperwork over to the admissions office. I am excited about this change and hope that it affords me more opportunities than the informal track would have.
This is so hilarious....a fire engine is roaring by... We live near a road where a fair number of emergency vehicles travel...with lights and sirens. The dogs in the neighborhood freak out with their howling and barking. Ours? Nope. Too lazy. The big one is asleep on the bed and heard the ruckus, picked her head up as if to say "WTF?" and plopped it back down into restful slumber. Pretty funny stuff. I think later today I am going to go to Wal-Mart. I am not crazy about Wal-Mart for a variety of reasons, but there are some things that Target just doesn't carry. Usually, they are tacky things that a person really should not spend money on...which is exactly what I am looking for right now. HA!
This week is shaping up to be a productive one. I will (hopefully) have the baseboards in the kitchen back reinstalled before sleeping tonight, a ton of weeding was done by hubby today, we treated and added about 50 gallons of H2O to the fish pond and will begin the algae treatment probably tonight, an electrician is coming on Wednesday to install light fixtures, outlets and switches and the piano tuner will be here Thursday at 1pm to get the piano in shape for people to play this weekend. We have several musicians coming over on Saturday so it will be nice to know that the instrument is in playable condition. :)
I am going to wrap up here, but in the words of Robert Frost, "I have miles to go before I sleep, I have miles to go before I sleep."
Peace out peeps!
UPDATE:
I totally overdid it in the heat today...again. Not as badly as last time, but I feel all goofy and stuff. Hopefully, I will feel better by morning so that I can keep to my volunteer schedule. Not to mention, I have a ton to do the rest of the week. Anyway, much was accomplished today and I found out that a neighbor that we have not gotten to know (pretty much at all) will be at the party on Saturday. I am so excited! She and her husband have a 3 y.o. son and she seems to be someone that I could get along with very well. Yeah! Making friends!! Cool! Just in time to not have any time at all. ;)
This is so hilarious....a fire engine is roaring by... We live near a road where a fair number of emergency vehicles travel...with lights and sirens. The dogs in the neighborhood freak out with their howling and barking. Ours? Nope. Too lazy. The big one is asleep on the bed and heard the ruckus, picked her head up as if to say "WTF?" and plopped it back down into restful slumber. Pretty funny stuff. I think later today I am going to go to Wal-Mart. I am not crazy about Wal-Mart for a variety of reasons, but there are some things that Target just doesn't carry. Usually, they are tacky things that a person really should not spend money on...which is exactly what I am looking for right now. HA!
This week is shaping up to be a productive one. I will (hopefully) have the baseboards in the kitchen back reinstalled before sleeping tonight, a ton of weeding was done by hubby today, we treated and added about 50 gallons of H2O to the fish pond and will begin the algae treatment probably tonight, an electrician is coming on Wednesday to install light fixtures, outlets and switches and the piano tuner will be here Thursday at 1pm to get the piano in shape for people to play this weekend. We have several musicians coming over on Saturday so it will be nice to know that the instrument is in playable condition. :)
I am going to wrap up here, but in the words of Robert Frost, "I have miles to go before I sleep, I have miles to go before I sleep."
Peace out peeps!
UPDATE:
I totally overdid it in the heat today...again. Not as badly as last time, but I feel all goofy and stuff. Hopefully, I will feel better by morning so that I can keep to my volunteer schedule. Not to mention, I have a ton to do the rest of the week. Anyway, much was accomplished today and I found out that a neighbor that we have not gotten to know (pretty much at all) will be at the party on Saturday. I am so excited! She and her husband have a 3 y.o. son and she seems to be someone that I could get along with very well. Yeah! Making friends!! Cool! Just in time to not have any time at all. ;)
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Bad day.
Today is not a good day for me. In fact, I would classify it as awful. Not that anything significant has happened, I just feel terrible. I don't know that I am capable of being any more descriptive than that. I am angry to point where it hurts and I don't know why I am angry. I am depressed, I am...heck I just don't really care about discussing it. I have had bad days in my life...we all have. The feeling associated with this one ranks up there pretty high.
Anyway, I have discovered a program (a formal post-bacc) that I was previously unaware of. That is not true, I was aware of it, but thought the requirements were beyond what I have. So, I called the director and asked him about it. He said that where I am is just fine and to call this other person over in admissions to get her change me over into this program. Ok, great. But, that was Friday and I was unable to talk to her before the weekend? Why? Because I was sitting in a chair getting one of the worst haircuts of my life. I am not only feeling horrible, but I look like a moron. Great. Not to mention, a lost dog showed up on our front porch yesterday and we were unable to find the owners before nightfall. So, the sucker that I am insisted that we keep the dog safe in our back yard until the owner was found. Great. What we have found out from the single tag that graces her collar is that it is likely that she became lost when her owner visited the nearby river, perhaps for hiking, biking or kayaking. The dog is incredibly sweet, gentle and well behaved...certainly better behaved than our 2. But, we have a party next weekend that will take place largely in the back. This dog can not be here!! We have to wait until Monday to call the county office where the tag is from (which is a good 2 hours from here) to try to track down a name and phone number. Then, get these people here to pick up their friggin' dog. I don't want to put the dog out on the street. I can't do that. And, if she has an owner (which it appears that she does) I don't want to drop her off with the SPCA either. So, for now, she will remain fed and watered in our back yard.
Anyway, I have discovered a program (a formal post-bacc) that I was previously unaware of. That is not true, I was aware of it, but thought the requirements were beyond what I have. So, I called the director and asked him about it. He said that where I am is just fine and to call this other person over in admissions to get her change me over into this program. Ok, great. But, that was Friday and I was unable to talk to her before the weekend? Why? Because I was sitting in a chair getting one of the worst haircuts of my life. I am not only feeling horrible, but I look like a moron. Great. Not to mention, a lost dog showed up on our front porch yesterday and we were unable to find the owners before nightfall. So, the sucker that I am insisted that we keep the dog safe in our back yard until the owner was found. Great. What we have found out from the single tag that graces her collar is that it is likely that she became lost when her owner visited the nearby river, perhaps for hiking, biking or kayaking. The dog is incredibly sweet, gentle and well behaved...certainly better behaved than our 2. But, we have a party next weekend that will take place largely in the back. This dog can not be here!! We have to wait until Monday to call the county office where the tag is from (which is a good 2 hours from here) to try to track down a name and phone number. Then, get these people here to pick up their friggin' dog. I don't want to put the dog out on the street. I can't do that. And, if she has an owner (which it appears that she does) I don't want to drop her off with the SPCA either. So, for now, she will remain fed and watered in our back yard.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
If I could come up with a title, maybe I would know what I am thinking...
When I was younger, I always said I wanted to become a pediatric oncologist. I soon learned that peds is not so much about kids as it is about the parents. I no longer want to have anything to do with a pediatric specialty. LOL. I had a full day of volunteering at XYZCC. What I may not have explained is that XYZCC is part of a large hospital. I don't know if that is necessarily pertinent, but there is the info if you need it in the future. Today, I spent my time in the wig salon. I will be one of the peeps in there as well. What people don't know about this tiny room in the winding halls of XYZCC is that it is a place where any woman undergoing treatment for cancer (regardless of where she is treated in the metro area) can receive a free wig...or cranial prosthesis (whichever you chose to call it). We have hats for men, but no toupes. Furthermore, there is a selection of women's hats and scarves. Patients find out about this tiny room that can house many emotions in a variety of different ways.
Today, I went on rounds of a few floors. I met one particular patient who I look forward to following from a psychological perspective. She is awesome. I walked into her room with my junior counterpart and from the get-go it was non-stop laughter. Ms. M is newly diagnosed. I do not know what type of cancer she has, but as she put it "I came in for a quick bone scan and I stayed." Tonight she was supposedly having her hair cut before she begins chemo next week. Her laughter was infectious and her spirit was inviting. Next week, we have the first formal consultation with her to choose her wig. She was especially interested in how to apply false eyelashes without looking like 2 spiders had taken a traumatic adventure into her upper face. I pray that she keeps her attitude as it is today throughout this journey, but the reality is that life is going to become more difficult for her than many or even most of us have ever known.
----
I am sorry, I have been derailed. Someone that I care very much about is very ill. Disease stinks. I hope to make a difference one day in a profound way. For now, let's keep in mind those who are suffering in mind, body and/or spirit tonight. As I easily go on in my life, battling whatever issues I may encounter, it is so easy to become self-centered forgetting the pain that is ever-present in the lives of so many. None of this is an original thought...just one that we need to keep in mind a lot more often.
As I sit in my comfortable, middle class house with the thermostat maintaining a brisk 72F, how many people died from the heat today? How many walked outside this morning to make a living and didn't come home tonight? I am so grateful. How many patients that I saw today will not be alive tomorrow morning? I pray that when I enter those rooms, I do so with the respect that each life deserves. I pray that I treat the patients who are not aware of my presence with the same respect that I treat those who are. Always.
Tonight has been rough. I am going to close here.
Today, I went on rounds of a few floors. I met one particular patient who I look forward to following from a psychological perspective. She is awesome. I walked into her room with my junior counterpart and from the get-go it was non-stop laughter. Ms. M is newly diagnosed. I do not know what type of cancer she has, but as she put it "I came in for a quick bone scan and I stayed." Tonight she was supposedly having her hair cut before she begins chemo next week. Her laughter was infectious and her spirit was inviting. Next week, we have the first formal consultation with her to choose her wig. She was especially interested in how to apply false eyelashes without looking like 2 spiders had taken a traumatic adventure into her upper face. I pray that she keeps her attitude as it is today throughout this journey, but the reality is that life is going to become more difficult for her than many or even most of us have ever known.
----
I am sorry, I have been derailed. Someone that I care very much about is very ill. Disease stinks. I hope to make a difference one day in a profound way. For now, let's keep in mind those who are suffering in mind, body and/or spirit tonight. As I easily go on in my life, battling whatever issues I may encounter, it is so easy to become self-centered forgetting the pain that is ever-present in the lives of so many. None of this is an original thought...just one that we need to keep in mind a lot more often.
As I sit in my comfortable, middle class house with the thermostat maintaining a brisk 72F, how many people died from the heat today? How many walked outside this morning to make a living and didn't come home tonight? I am so grateful. How many patients that I saw today will not be alive tomorrow morning? I pray that when I enter those rooms, I do so with the respect that each life deserves. I pray that I treat the patients who are not aware of my presence with the same respect that I treat those who are. Always.
Tonight has been rough. I am going to close here.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Look Ma, No Glass!
Today was HOT! I mean, uber-hot. The heat index actually hit 117F! Needless to say, I didn't go out much today. Watered the plants and went out to dinner because the thought of eating meat (I had planned to cook for dinner) was just too hot. Ugh. So, we went for salad...and soup...which I brought home and put in the fridge. I am having 'puter issues and burning a CD from iTunes can't seem to be done. I really need to back some data before this thing goes belly up. It is only a year old, but I don't have much confidence in its longevity at the moment. Tomorrow is my long day volunteering at XYZCC. I am looking forward to it, but not to the heat. I have no idea what I will be doing tomorrow. I could live without doing the cart...that makes me sweat. The building is not exactly 50 below, so activity makes me sweat. My glasses end up sliding down on my face so I look completely disheveled. I did find that I sweat less when I was wearing running shoes rather than loafers. Thankfully, I am pretty well stocked with Nike Shox, so tomorrow it will be a light pink blouse, khaki slacks (capri or long, I have not decided), and pink Shox. That way, if the cart is in my future...I will be prepared. Today was not a real good day around here if you are an antique piece of Asian art. My hubby was vacuuming (which I appreciate) and, though he saw a potential disaster, failed to reposition the cord. CRASH! Down goes a 4 foot piece of 18th century oil painting on silk. I had worked so hard to delicately clean this piece before having it framed. Not to mention, the framing itself cost $400! We were going to hang it in the foyer. I am not exactly happy with the situation. Especially because to replace the glass (which involves removing it from the custom frame and then reframing) would easily cost $200+ . Hubby's suggestion? "Can't we just hang it without the glass?" IT IS 300 YEARS OLD! Come on! We can...if you want to watch it disintegrate.
I really should stop whining. The man is wonderful. He never gets mad when I do stupid things, which is way too often. So, I really should cut him a break.
I will report on the day tomorrow. Have a great one all!
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
It's, um, Tuesday
Ok, I believe in global warming. Yes, I drive an SUV, but I also drive a 2 seater and a 4 door Accord. I try to drive the SUV as little as possible, but I know that I contribute to the depletion of the o-zone layer. After hubby wrecked the Honda CR-V in May, we looked at hybrids. I was doing well to get him to spend what he did...the hybrid was several $1000 more. My point, it is hot! The forecast is calling for highs in the triple digits today with a heat index of 112. Oh my. Thank you hybrid drivers of the world...it could be worse.
We took the SUV yesterday because we were going to go shopping before an appointment that I had where we used to live. We bought a couple of pieces of furniture (like we need any more furniture) and a bunch of other stuff. They are very functional pieces and nothing over the top. But, we are wanting to GIVE AWAY furniture it does sound crazy to be purchasing more. They are pieces that we needed, believe it or not. In this weather, the last thing that I wanted to do when we got home last night at 11 was unload stuff from the car. Hopefully, we will get to put them in place sometime today. But, that requires more unpacking.
I posted an ad for free boxes on our neighborhood egroups site. Hopefully, someone will get in touch with us saying they are in desperate need of boxes and will come right over. More importantly, hopefully they actually will come and get them. Ok, that was random, but it made total sense in my head.
I am sure I will update this post later, but for now...I am outta here!
Time Lapse...Edit:
I am being a total slug today. How pathetic. Let's see, what do I want to accomplish today?
- paint lower half of bathroom
- unpack boxes in master sunroom
- paint cabinets in master bathroom
There is far more available for completion. But, I am just sitting here thinking about what kinds of plants I can plant in the fall. It is way too hot to go out and work in the yard or sand and paint kitchen cabinet doors today. But, I am lying here watching reruns of Judging Amy." Hum. This is not a good sign. Three more weeks and I will have no choice but to sink or swim. I certainly hope I snap out of this funk by the time classes begin.
I begin reading a new book. "Becoming a Doctor" by Melvin Konner, MD. I have had this book for years, but I never read it. I didn't realize when I bought it that he was a non-trad as well. This adds a whole new dimension to the story. One that interests me tremendously.
In the interest of full disclosure, I have a lot on my mind right now. It appears that I am losing a battle that I have been fighting for a long time. The losing (so to speak) of this battle would not be the end of the world, but it would certainly affect more than just myself...significantly. I have a very positive person "in the know" in my life and she seems to refuse to think the battle is lost. But, there is certainly a tone in her voice that seems to say "you have such a small chance to win, but I can't bear to tell you that." I know the truth. I am in touch with reality. I almost feel worse for her than I do for myself.
Sorry for the cryptic nature of this edit, but I just don't know if this is the place to reveal something like this.
Oh well.
TTFN!
We took the SUV yesterday because we were going to go shopping before an appointment that I had where we used to live. We bought a couple of pieces of furniture (like we need any more furniture) and a bunch of other stuff. They are very functional pieces and nothing over the top. But, we are wanting to GIVE AWAY furniture it does sound crazy to be purchasing more. They are pieces that we needed, believe it or not. In this weather, the last thing that I wanted to do when we got home last night at 11 was unload stuff from the car. Hopefully, we will get to put them in place sometime today. But, that requires more unpacking.
I posted an ad for free boxes on our neighborhood egroups site. Hopefully, someone will get in touch with us saying they are in desperate need of boxes and will come right over. More importantly, hopefully they actually will come and get them. Ok, that was random, but it made total sense in my head.
I am sure I will update this post later, but for now...I am outta here!
Time Lapse...Edit:
I am being a total slug today. How pathetic. Let's see, what do I want to accomplish today?
- paint lower half of bathroom
- unpack boxes in master sunroom
- paint cabinets in master bathroom
There is far more available for completion. But, I am just sitting here thinking about what kinds of plants I can plant in the fall. It is way too hot to go out and work in the yard or sand and paint kitchen cabinet doors today. But, I am lying here watching reruns of Judging Amy." Hum. This is not a good sign. Three more weeks and I will have no choice but to sink or swim. I certainly hope I snap out of this funk by the time classes begin.
I begin reading a new book. "Becoming a Doctor" by Melvin Konner, MD. I have had this book for years, but I never read it. I didn't realize when I bought it that he was a non-trad as well. This adds a whole new dimension to the story. One that interests me tremendously.
In the interest of full disclosure, I have a lot on my mind right now. It appears that I am losing a battle that I have been fighting for a long time. The losing (so to speak) of this battle would not be the end of the world, but it would certainly affect more than just myself...significantly. I have a very positive person "in the know" in my life and she seems to refuse to think the battle is lost. But, there is certainly a tone in her voice that seems to say "you have such a small chance to win, but I can't bear to tell you that." I know the truth. I am in touch with reality. I almost feel worse for her than I do for myself.
Sorry for the cryptic nature of this edit, but I just don't know if this is the place to reveal something like this.
Oh well.
TTFN!
Saturday, July 29, 2006
A Volunteering Fool
I spent Thursday and Friday afternoon volunteering. Thursday was definitely more rewarding than Friday. I spent my time with "the cart" on Thursday and did little more. The grand chicky of volunteers took me on a long walk (which somewhat served as a tour) so that we could chat. She wanted to talk to me about what they planned to "do with me" (so to speak). As I mentioned in an earlier post, I will be working with that pilot program for newly diagnosed patients. That will start in September. I will also be working on revamping the way that volunteers are filtered through the system (again, so to speak) and marketing a variety of programs that are available through the center to the metro area. I feel this is all very worthwhile, but I am a little torn. My former career was in marketing/media, I am ready to move on. I offered to help in any way that I could, mentioning my background, so the only person I can blame is myself. I just had no idea they needed so much in this area. As long as I still get to work with the patients in some direct way, I will be happy. I don't want this to turn into my former life on a volunteer basis. I did a bunch of pro bono work before and enjoyed it tremendously. So, this will be an opportunity to do that again. I just don't want it being the only thing I am doing.
On Friday, I worked with a totally different area of the hospital, not even in XYZCC. There is an employee art show/contest beginning next week and yesterday was the last day for people to submit their work. It was hopping, but not fulfilling. People were nice, so I can't complain about that at all. Not everyday can be the best.
My days there will be Monday and Thursday each week. However, this week I will not be able to go because of a previously scheduled engagement. I will go in on Tuesday afternoon instead.
Today, we have a get-together at a friend's house. I am not too psyched about going. We feel really used by these people. I would have bugged out, but my husband confirmed before I could open my mouth. Tomorrow, we have another cookout at a neighbor's house across the alley. We really like our neighbors, so this won't be as bad. It is a celebration for some other alley neighbors that just got married. Here's the deal...the guy that just got married always looks at me like I have 15 heads and totally ignores us otherwise. His new wife is one of the friendliest people you could ever meet. I don't see the attraction, but it is not mine to see. The problem? We hardly know these people. What do we get them as a gift? One is expected, we just don't have the first clue. Hubby suggested a nice bottle of champagne, in hopes that they drink. She smokes, so he felt pretty safe in the drinking assumption. I think he was relying on statistics for this gift. If not, I have no idea what the heck to get them. So, we will take the champagne risk.
Sometime this weekend we must make more progress on the house. Our party is in 2 weeks. The master bath and the powder room must still be painted and the cabinet doors in the kitchen must be completed and reattached. Lots of work. It will be fun.
Ok, I need to go eat some breakfast and get the stuff ready for the cookout at 1.
TTYL.
On Friday, I worked with a totally different area of the hospital, not even in XYZCC. There is an employee art show/contest beginning next week and yesterday was the last day for people to submit their work. It was hopping, but not fulfilling. People were nice, so I can't complain about that at all. Not everyday can be the best.
My days there will be Monday and Thursday each week. However, this week I will not be able to go because of a previously scheduled engagement. I will go in on Tuesday afternoon instead.
Today, we have a get-together at a friend's house. I am not too psyched about going. We feel really used by these people. I would have bugged out, but my husband confirmed before I could open my mouth. Tomorrow, we have another cookout at a neighbor's house across the alley. We really like our neighbors, so this won't be as bad. It is a celebration for some other alley neighbors that just got married. Here's the deal...the guy that just got married always looks at me like I have 15 heads and totally ignores us otherwise. His new wife is one of the friendliest people you could ever meet. I don't see the attraction, but it is not mine to see. The problem? We hardly know these people. What do we get them as a gift? One is expected, we just don't have the first clue. Hubby suggested a nice bottle of champagne, in hopes that they drink. She smokes, so he felt pretty safe in the drinking assumption. I think he was relying on statistics for this gift. If not, I have no idea what the heck to get them. So, we will take the champagne risk.
Sometime this weekend we must make more progress on the house. Our party is in 2 weeks. The master bath and the powder room must still be painted and the cabinet doors in the kitchen must be completed and reattached. Lots of work. It will be fun.
Ok, I need to go eat some breakfast and get the stuff ready for the cookout at 1.
TTYL.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Awesome Day!
Today was awesome! I awakened with just enough time to shower, dress, and shove a PB sandwich down for breakfast before heading off to the hospital/cancer center for what I thought would be an hour or so of "orientation." Not so. I got the low down on what the volunteer department at XYZ Cancer Center (XYZCC) is currently doing and what is planned. I am so psyched. Apparently, it was not difficult to pinpoint me in a heartbeat as someone who would work well in a new program for patients that is in development. More specifically, a handful of specially trained volunteers will be working with newly diagnosed patients to walk them down the road of what to expect in their treatment. Totally up my alley! I was really flattered by the how stoked they seemed to be to have me there. I mean, could they gush any more? It was so awesome and made me feel wonderful. I thought the volunteer coordinator was literally going to spin out when I told her that I was returning to school in prep for med school. Honestly, I am not sure why. I was already an adult volunteer in her eyes, so that indicated long term commitment, but now she was dealing with someone who had a deeper interest in the patients and the happenings of the hospital. Seriously, it was almost embarrassing.
I partnered with a woman who was in charge of the hospitality cart this morning. Nothing glamorous (I'm not there for glamour anyway..so who cares!), but a way to get acquainted with the layout of things and the staff. It was wonderful. The patients were wonderful. I really enjoyed getting to do that little thing for them. I mean, I poured soft drinks and juice and handed out crackers and hard candy to these grateful people in such horrible circumstances...I don't know that I could have had a better day. The smiles I was able to exchange. The brushes of the hand that I shared...I was able to bring a tiny bit of joy to these people. It was awesome. I am so thrilled that I chose to volunteer in the cancer center. There is something different there that isn't found in the hospital. I could speculate as to what exactly it is, you know, attempt to put a philosophical label on it, but somehow that would seem disrespectful.
I am scheduled to return Thursday afternoon. I can hardly wait.
I partnered with a woman who was in charge of the hospitality cart this morning. Nothing glamorous (I'm not there for glamour anyway..so who cares!), but a way to get acquainted with the layout of things and the staff. It was wonderful. The patients were wonderful. I really enjoyed getting to do that little thing for them. I mean, I poured soft drinks and juice and handed out crackers and hard candy to these grateful people in such horrible circumstances...I don't know that I could have had a better day. The smiles I was able to exchange. The brushes of the hand that I shared...I was able to bring a tiny bit of joy to these people. It was awesome. I am so thrilled that I chose to volunteer in the cancer center. There is something different there that isn't found in the hospital. I could speculate as to what exactly it is, you know, attempt to put a philosophical label on it, but somehow that would seem disrespectful.
I am scheduled to return Thursday afternoon. I can hardly wait.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Another orientation...Tomorrow
Tomorrow is my orientation at XYZ Cancer Center. I am really excited. I will find out what I will be doing. They have opportunities to do different things with varying levels of patient interaction. Obviously, give me all ya got! A friend of ours (in her 80s) volunteers at a hospital in a different area of the state and she works in the recovery room. I would love that. I wanted to do something a little different than the typical "volunteer in the E.D. at XYZ Hospital" and it was between XYZ Cancer Center and Hospice. They don't even call it "hospice" in many areas anymore, now it is "Palliative Care." I think anyone who has had experience with this service still refers to it as "hospice." My father-in-law underwent hospice care. While I never knew him, I do know that it was a horrible experience for all involved. This however is not the norm. The nurse that was assigned to his case was pretty rotten from what I understand and had little regard for the actual feelings of my father-in-law and my husband's family. My husband, in his line of work, now deals regularly with people under the care of hospice. Many go in an out of the care, which is why they sometimes tend to refer to it as palliative care. This is positive in every way. People getting better, going home...what's not positive about that. Wait...let me rethink that...maybe one day I will get into the nasty and painful discussion of caregivers. Especially, adult children caregivers.
I am really pumped about tomorrow. I look at every new opportunity as a step in the right direction.
I'll post how it goes tomorrow. Oh, and for the person waiting to see a pic of my big puppy... here she is:
I have had her since she was 9.5 weeks old. She is now 7. Gosh, I love my dogs. It's amazing to consider the relationship between pets and their owners. I could NEVER be a vet.
Until tomorrow.
I am really pumped about tomorrow. I look at every new opportunity as a step in the right direction.
I'll post how it goes tomorrow. Oh, and for the person waiting to see a pic of my big puppy... here she is:
I have had her since she was 9.5 weeks old. She is now 7. Gosh, I love my dogs. It's amazing to consider the relationship between pets and their owners. I could NEVER be a vet.Until tomorrow.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
I think too much...Do I?
This week was fairly uneventful, I suppose. As I recounted, I went and had my TB test read and got my hospital ID. I had my MMR booster on Friday and will return for the second of two needle sticks in a month. I have scheduled my second of two orientations for my volunteer work at the cancer center for Tuesday and I have been registered for classes for a month. I sat down with my mentor last evening for a very thorough chat about what is going on and my direction. She is always positive so I opted to pose a question that would require a negative answer to be honest. Not that I wanted a negative answer, but I wanted to cover all my bases.
Q: "Is there anything you can identify that I am not doing correctly?"
A: "You are thinking too much."
Apparently, everyone seems to have this wrong. This is supposed to be a relaxing process? I think not. But, I guess I should have expected that from a woman who got her M.D. without a second though except for specialty. In fact, that is her biggest regret in medicine. She had secured a neurosurg residency, but due to a variety of factors opted for IM and later went back and became board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Really, I should have expected an answer like that from a person like that. However, there is a reason that I hold her in such high regard. Perhaps I should listen.
I am going to chat on the phone with a couple of my SDN peeps tonight...A planned "3 way" if you will. I am looking forward to it!
Outta here for now.
Q: "Is there anything you can identify that I am not doing correctly?"
A: "You are thinking too much."
Apparently, everyone seems to have this wrong. This is supposed to be a relaxing process? I think not. But, I guess I should have expected that from a woman who got her M.D. without a second though except for specialty. In fact, that is her biggest regret in medicine. She had secured a neurosurg residency, but due to a variety of factors opted for IM and later went back and became board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Really, I should have expected an answer like that from a person like that. However, there is a reason that I hold her in such high regard. Perhaps I should listen.
I am going to chat on the phone with a couple of my SDN peeps tonight...A planned "3 way" if you will. I am looking forward to it!
Outta here for now.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Sweltering
Unfortunately, the heatwave that has enveloped the country hasn't forgotten us. The mercury soared to 104F today with a heat index of 111! That's insane. Thankfully, I didn't have to go anywhere today, but was mindful of those who did. The plumber came by to fix a problem that had developed since he was last here and immediately commented about how good it felt inside our house. Of course, that doesn't come without a price. When we bought the house, the A/C and heating systems were 20-30 years old and we knew that they weren't going to cut it. So, hubby did a bunch of research and had some spiffy system installed in February. I am thrilled that he did! It has been running like mad to maintain the 72F temperature that we are demanding of it. You know it is hot outside when our chow comes running in the back door when called.
This is the same dog that refused to come inside for HOURS, instead lying outside in the hot, Texas summer heat. Insane! Not today! It was a race to the door. No begging, pleading or threatening today. So maybe the heat does have its perks. :)
A torrential downpour would be wonderful, but I haven't seen one forecasted. So until then, we will just chill inside.
I had some psycho-educational testing done in early June. Today, I got a call for the psychologist who administered it. I do not meet the criteria for "learning disabled," but I am slow on timed tasks my reading level is lower than it should be. The clincher? I "make up for it" in comprehension. I guess it is somewhat funny, since reading comprehension is what drove me there in the first place. Oh well. I am trying to read more to improve the whole level and speed thing, but it is somewhat frustrating to hear. She said that I place way too much undue stress on myself...Setting standards ridiculously high, etc. And..that I should look into guided imagery. Ugh. Whatever. If it will help (or has a chance of helping) I will do it. Maybe I will call tomorrow. I need to get on it so that I can be better prepared for the fall semester.
Until later dudes and dudettes.
This is the same dog that refused to come inside for HOURS, instead lying outside in the hot, Texas summer heat. Insane! Not today! It was a race to the door. No begging, pleading or threatening today. So maybe the heat does have its perks. :)A torrential downpour would be wonderful, but I haven't seen one forecasted. So until then, we will just chill inside.
I had some psycho-educational testing done in early June. Today, I got a call for the psychologist who administered it. I do not meet the criteria for "learning disabled," but I am slow on timed tasks my reading level is lower than it should be. The clincher? I "make up for it" in comprehension. I guess it is somewhat funny, since reading comprehension is what drove me there in the first place. Oh well. I am trying to read more to improve the whole level and speed thing, but it is somewhat frustrating to hear. She said that I place way too much undue stress on myself...Setting standards ridiculously high, etc. And..that I should look into guided imagery. Ugh. Whatever. If it will help (or has a chance of helping) I will do it. Maybe I will call tomorrow. I need to get on it so that I can be better prepared for the fall semester.
Until later dudes and dudettes.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Sunday...I think.
I slept forever today. The alarm went off at 7:30am and I barely rolled over. Neither one of us went to church. I don't even know when the last time my hubby didn't go! I skipped a bunch when we were at our last church b/c I was so disgusted with the people. I didn't get anything out of the service and felt more hatred than anything. Perhaps it wasn't the best thing to do, but I did it nonetheless. This morning, I was COMPLETELY out of it. I slept until 10:30. I have no idea when hubby awakened. We had breakfast about 11 and crawled back into bed. I ended up taking another nap until about 3:30 (off and on) …we went to Jason's Deli at about 4:30 for lunch/dinner. Unfortunately, while were there, I had a somewhat severe hypoglycemic incident. I am not diabetic, but it was awful. I could feel it getting worse when I was getting my salad. When I sat down at the table, I could barely get food to my mouth. Somehow, I asked hubby to get me a regular Coke—quickly. I never drink Coke. Always Diet. But, I knew I needed the sugar. I gulped it down.… As I ate more, I felt progressively better. It was a horribly frightening experience, but I know that skipping meals (or not eating within 3-4 hours or so) does not agree with me and I should heed the warning signs which I didn't. I have never had an incident like this before. It is usually a lot milder and I take care of it right away. I was seconds from not being about to talk that was not fun. Anyway, I am fine now. No one suspected a thing except for the two of us.
Tomorrow, I need to go get my picture taken for my hospital ID. I hate ID pictures. Somehow, they brand you and you cannot change from the way you were that moment. Rarely, the camera catches a good moment...those are awesome. I recently begged the DMV to allow me to keep my previous driver's license picture. I lost. So, now I must walk around with that moment in the grey t-shirt until I am willing to endure another trip to the DMV. I think I will forego my vanity and keep the picture.
We are searching for an indoor, floor fountain/waterfall for our foyer. I never knew finding a fountain 55"+ tall x 16"+ wide would be such a big deal. We were able to find ONE. I think. I say "I think" because there is reason to believe that there may be a typo in the description. I hope not. It is not my first choice for fountains, however the size overrides any slight dislike I may harbor.
It's nice to have such trivial worries. I have friends who don't have this luxury right now. They are on my heart and mind a lot. Say a prayer of thanks for triviality...and then please add a prayer for those I am thinking of right now.
Peace Out Peeps!
Tomorrow, I need to go get my picture taken for my hospital ID. I hate ID pictures. Somehow, they brand you and you cannot change from the way you were that moment. Rarely, the camera catches a good moment...those are awesome. I recently begged the DMV to allow me to keep my previous driver's license picture. I lost. So, now I must walk around with that moment in the grey t-shirt until I am willing to endure another trip to the DMV. I think I will forego my vanity and keep the picture.
We are searching for an indoor, floor fountain/waterfall for our foyer. I never knew finding a fountain 55"+ tall x 16"+ wide would be such a big deal. We were able to find ONE. I think. I say "I think" because there is reason to believe that there may be a typo in the description. I hope not. It is not my first choice for fountains, however the size overrides any slight dislike I may harbor.
It's nice to have such trivial worries. I have friends who don't have this luxury right now. They are on my heart and mind a lot. Say a prayer of thanks for triviality...and then please add a prayer for those I am thinking of right now.
Peace Out Peeps!
Saturday, July 15, 2006
I am thrilled to report that the foyer and upstairs hallway have been painted! Now, for some reason, I am dizzy, have a headache and am woozy. Probably the paint fumes, I guess.
I had decided to apply to a formal post-bacc program instead of doing it on my own. Especially since the university where I am doing my work has such a great program. So I had begun to study for the GRE. But, alas...it was not what I thought it was! I have to finish all of my stupid pre-reqs before I can even get into their program. So, I looked further...they have a certification program for people looking to complete their pre-reqs, but you have to have already completed the year of Bio and the year of Chem. That's almost half of it already! What exactly is the purpose? Especially since I can't get into either of those classes this fall. So, we'll have to see what happens. Hopefully, somehow by the grace of God, a spot will open up in Bio and I can jump on it. But, Chem...I need the Intro. I haven't taken it since my junior year in high school. I have decided to take the math placement test over again since I bombed it so royally the first time. I mean, I can do Calc II...what am doing failing an Algebra test? Stupid...really stupid. I need to go get Schaum's College Algebra and look over it. Schaum's Outlines are fabulous if you have never used them. Unfortunately...I have encountered quite a few errors on the answer key. But, for explanation...amazing. I have found them very useful. Keep your fingers crossed and your hands folded that I pull this out. I don't want to rot a semester away in College Algebra!
I am trying to get these pre-reqs out of the way by Summer 2008. Now, try to squeeze the MCAT in there with ample study time and everything will be great. I have some serious doubts. That's ok. What's an extra year when everyone is going to be 10+ years younger than me when I finally get in anyway?? :)
As an aside...I have a zit on the tip of my nose. I guess I am not too old for those!
TTFN!
I had decided to apply to a formal post-bacc program instead of doing it on my own. Especially since the university where I am doing my work has such a great program. So I had begun to study for the GRE. But, alas...it was not what I thought it was! I have to finish all of my stupid pre-reqs before I can even get into their program. So, I looked further...they have a certification program for people looking to complete their pre-reqs, but you have to have already completed the year of Bio and the year of Chem. That's almost half of it already! What exactly is the purpose? Especially since I can't get into either of those classes this fall. So, we'll have to see what happens. Hopefully, somehow by the grace of God, a spot will open up in Bio and I can jump on it. But, Chem...I need the Intro. I haven't taken it since my junior year in high school. I have decided to take the math placement test over again since I bombed it so royally the first time. I mean, I can do Calc II...what am doing failing an Algebra test? Stupid...really stupid. I need to go get Schaum's College Algebra and look over it. Schaum's Outlines are fabulous if you have never used them. Unfortunately...I have encountered quite a few errors on the answer key. But, for explanation...amazing. I have found them very useful. Keep your fingers crossed and your hands folded that I pull this out. I don't want to rot a semester away in College Algebra!
I am trying to get these pre-reqs out of the way by Summer 2008. Now, try to squeeze the MCAT in there with ample study time and everything will be great. I have some serious doubts. That's ok. What's an extra year when everyone is going to be 10+ years younger than me when I finally get in anyway?? :)
As an aside...I have a zit on the tip of my nose. I guess I am not too old for those!
TTFN!
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Get Oriented...
Finally...something educationally/medically related to report! I had contacted the cancer center affiliated with the med school nearby to volunteer and had received a letter from them around the beginning of June. With all the moving and commotion, I had not contacted them to move forward. Yesterday, I did. I will be volunteering at the (unnamed) Cancer Center, but I first need to go through the general orientation at the main hospital and then another over at the center. I called the hospital today and I will attend orientation tomorrow morning at 10. I guess there is no time like the present!
I am really looking forward to starting down this path of my journey.
I am really looking forward to starting down this path of my journey.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Ketchup is better than...
All I ever seem to come up with to post on here lately is catch up stuff. Well, here goes again:
Hubby has finally moved to the new place for good. This is an extremely happy thing, but it seems that all we have done is argue since he got here. That is not so great. My stress level is up, he says that I am always putting him on edge. Something has got to give. I really want to be a better wife, but I am not. He doesn't put pressure on me (that I can identify) and is extremely supportive. So what am I complaining about? I need to get my head on straight. We are in this new place, creating a new life for ourselves because of me! I know that. He just found something good to do with his life while we are here. It certainly is not hurting him or his career, but it was MY choice to move here...my idea...my reasons.
I don't really know what to think anymore. Is he uptight or is it me? History would tell anyone that it is me. I have been working so hard on not flying off the handle. I tend to do that and jump down his throat. Sometimes I wonder why the man is still with me.
Anyway, Grey's Anatomy is on...they are showing the first two episodes. Too bad we watch them on DVD like 3 days ago. Usually, I can watch a rerun and it is all new to me - not today. Maybe it is all that edjumakashun that I am gettin' reedin' The New England Journal of Medicine. At my request, it has begun to grace my mailbox. Hopefully, I can learn something and improve my reading comprehension at the same time. I really have to strengthen my reading. It is definitely a weakness...probably my most severe (academically, at least).
Ken Lay died before he could be sentenced for the horrible things he did. In my honest opinion, he got off easy. The people whose life savings he took will have to spend their remaining days working to survive. He was on VACATION when he died. What do you think?
Hubby has finally moved to the new place for good. This is an extremely happy thing, but it seems that all we have done is argue since he got here. That is not so great. My stress level is up, he says that I am always putting him on edge. Something has got to give. I really want to be a better wife, but I am not. He doesn't put pressure on me (that I can identify) and is extremely supportive. So what am I complaining about? I need to get my head on straight. We are in this new place, creating a new life for ourselves because of me! I know that. He just found something good to do with his life while we are here. It certainly is not hurting him or his career, but it was MY choice to move here...my idea...my reasons.
I don't really know what to think anymore. Is he uptight or is it me? History would tell anyone that it is me. I have been working so hard on not flying off the handle. I tend to do that and jump down his throat. Sometimes I wonder why the man is still with me.
Anyway, Grey's Anatomy is on...they are showing the first two episodes. Too bad we watch them on DVD like 3 days ago. Usually, I can watch a rerun and it is all new to me - not today. Maybe it is all that edjumakashun that I am gettin' reedin' The New England Journal of Medicine. At my request, it has begun to grace my mailbox. Hopefully, I can learn something and improve my reading comprehension at the same time. I really have to strengthen my reading. It is definitely a weakness...probably my most severe (academically, at least).
Ken Lay died before he could be sentenced for the horrible things he did. In my honest opinion, he got off easy. The people whose life savings he took will have to spend their remaining days working to survive. He was on VACATION when he died. What do you think?
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