My life as a Nurse & Then Some

LASIK eye surgery!

2011-03-10T00:01:00.003-06:00

LASIK eye surgery! Yes, I had it, 2/18/2011. Definitely a great choice - not to have to wear contacts or glasses! Actually, it's been wonderful!

I went for my consultation back in November. I had never had anyone actually explain my vision to me - higher astigmatism in relation to my lower prescription - until Dr. Ming Wang. I felt extremely comfortable about having the procedure after meeting with him.

His credentials and accomplishments are well documented on his website (www.wangvisioninstitute.com). He, too, is only BLADELESS procedure in the state of Tennessee.

Dr. Ming Wang is a caring doctor. He called me the evening after my surgery to make sure everything was okay.

I've been extremely pleased with my outcome so far, and I would highly recommend Dr. Wang.

Catching up to do!

2011-03-01T16:00:00.000-06:00

I realize I have quite a bit of catching to do. Life tends to get in the way - and 2011 has had it's ups and downs.

More Birthday Celebrations!

2010-08-06T10:20:00.001-05:00

Thursday evening - before my birthday, Aaron and I went to Little Rock and ate at Gaucho's.

Ray & Tricia have a time share in Hot Springs every July. Aaron and I joined them for the weekend. Birthday presents on the fireplace.

Passport cover - I need to update it - not that we're going anywhere out of the country anytime soon.

Love me some purses, especially the twist closure!

Story: my (maternal) grandmother would always get us lottery tickets - the amount of what year we were turning. So, Aaron knew this story & he got me 30 tickets. I did $19.

Working hard!

Sunday morning tradition: steak and eggs. Just so happen to fall on my birthday! :)

S'mores cupcakes, red velvet cake, and ice cream.

Sunday evening.

Dinner @ Bleu Monkey Grill.

SURPRISE! BIG 30!

2010-08-06T10:00:00.001-05:00

SURPRISE! That's definitely what it was. Aaron and I went to Tennessee for the weekend (the weekend before my birthday) to visit. He and I had decided that we would go out to eat Saturday evening to Stoney River - one of my favs to get steak. However, Aaron had gotten a message asking us to stop by our friend John's house - to see he new patio. And this is what I saw: family and friends gathered to celebrate!

Here is the amazing cake made by Patty. Red velvet with cream cheese icing. Fav. We also had several of my other favorites: Chik-Fil-A nuggets and cole slaw, Jimmy John's sandwiches and pickles. And can't leave out the Dr. Pepper!

My parents and me.

My fabulous (& HOT) husband! :)

30! :)

My birthday present! I had been eyeing this ring at our local jeweler for months. Whenever we would go in for other things, I'd definitely would check it out. Aaron had been working on this plan and party for about 6 weeks. He already had purchased it for me.

Another year of fabulous! That's what it is. Looking forward to the upcoming year!

(Sorry for not having blogged - life tends to get in the way sometimes. I promise to be better).

Thought.

2010-03-24T12:30:00.001-05:00

Patience is the hardest thing. Yet, with persistence, it usually pays off in a larger way ever imagine. If not, you gain a great quality.

Happy birthday, Dad!

2010-02-19T07:23:00.002-06:00

Happy birthday, Dad! Born February 19, 1926. Great depression, WWII veteran. He's been through it all! He's one of the smartest men I know! I love him dearly!

Here's a song that makes me think of my Dad every time I hear it...

Happy birthday, Aaron!

2010-01-30T10:00:00.001-06:00

I realize I'm a little late in posting, but Aaron's birthday was a great day. I had so much fun watching him open presents throughout the day. I went a little overboard with the presents, but I truly enjoy giving presents!

This was the last present he opened. I made sure I replaced him with new lab coats before I started cutting on them. I had the pockets of his lab coats from residency framed - because he liked the cartoon embroidery on them. I also had a pocket framed that he has 'sutured.'

A new leather monogrammed prescription pad cover!

Travis - just hanging out!

New shoes!

Aaron and I have started watching the show Bones. For Christmas, he got Seasons 1 & 2. For his birthday, he got Seasons 3 & 4. Along with them, I got him the belt buckle work by Seeley Booth: COCKY, with the matching cufflinks. I must say, I think this was his favorite present.

Aaron decorating his birthday cake on his new cake turntable!

BIRTHDAY CUPCAKE!

Birthday boy!

Happy birthday, Aaron! I love you!

Memories!

2009-12-30T08:00:00.003-06:00

Aaron and I were out doing some shopping in Little Rock, and I saw this car coming out of Old Navy.

So, when I saw this car, I immediately thought back to the one my parents had - however I was corrected by my Mom. We had a Chrysler New Yorker. I don't know what the Mercury equivalent was to the New Yorker, but they're the same, right? :)

Plans for next year!

2009-12-28T19:45:00.000-06:00

Saw this tree at What's New - in Murfreesboro, TN. LOVE the concept. So surely with the trees that Aaron and I both have, we should be able to do this next Christmas!

Christmas!

2009-12-25T19:30:00.000-06:00

Aaron and I celebrated our first Christmas together. We had a wonderful time. Here we are - on Christmas Eve.

Here we are with Travis!

Christmas Eve dinner: "Tennessee Steak Au Poivre, Potato Gratin, Roasted Asparagus, & Popover. We used our china, fancy flatware, & pineapple flutes! It was excellent!

Our First Christmas!

2009-12-21T14:30:00.001-06:00

Our first Christmas together - as husband and wife! Such an exciting time! Aaron and I are so looking forward to Christmas - so much that we put up decorations two weeks before Thanksgiving. We did this so that we would

be able to fully enjoy them!

One evening, we went to Wal-Mart, and we came across a white tree. We bought all of the decorations there and put it up that weekend. Travis helping us out...

Our finished product.

We thought we needed a 2 foot white tree - with pink and green ornaments.

Here's the mantle! LOVE IT. Aaron had a deer that he had spray painted white, but due to the texture of the deer, it didn't look great. This year, we painted him red. We're really pleased with the results.

Now onto the tree! We started off with red, blue, silver, green ornaments. Once we were finished hanging them, we placed sentimental ornaments. My ornaments were still in TN, and I wouldn't get them till after Thanksgiving. We made attempts to save room for mine. After we finished placing the ornaments, we decided that this was enough - that it was our tree.

Some of your may recall Aaron's tree from last year.

Aaron and I ordered an ornament for our first Christmas together.

Ethan and Jennifer got us this one. I absolutely love it.

And we couldn't forget Travis!

While we were on our honeymoon, we went to a pottery place, All Fired Up. There we painted our own pottery. We chose to paint Christmas ornaments. I painted the stocking.

Aaron's

We also put up a tree for the "Newlywed" ornaments. It had different ornaments and their meanings.

Thought we would add a decoration to the tree.

My favorite spot in the house - this end of the couch. Love the view!

Here's wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas!

Six-month-iversary!

2009-12-13T13:00:00.000-06:00

We've been married six months! Silly to be celebrating six month, eh? It's been the best six months of my life! Looking forward to many more months/years to come!

Highway 67

2009-10-20T11:45:00.000-05:00

Back in August, Aaron and I drove down to Texarkana - where he was born and raised. It was my first time to Texas.

We took the scenic route home - Highway 67. On our way home, we drove through Gurdon. Aaron and I thought the grocery sign was amusing: FOODSORE.

We drove by Gurdon schools. Their mascot is a "Go Devil.' A go devil is a rotary tool for scraping out obstructions from an oil pipeline. Here is Aaron standing on the go devil.

And to top it all off, we passed by this awesome mailbox. I saw it at a glance and told Aaron we had to turn around and get a picture! I don't think I have to say anymore!

Things I said that I'd never do...

2009-10-13T11:45:00.000-05:00

Within the last few months - I've done several things that I said that I'd never do.

Marry a doctor. 6/13/09.
Work at a hospital, other than a teaching facility. 8/31/09. However, I only managed to work there 3.5 weeks. One of those weeks being orientation, two weeks on the unit. Discovered that I enjoyed working with kids.
Work in a doctor's office. For those of you who don't know yet, I'm working at Possum Holler Pediatric with the husband. I'm just filling in, helping - as the winter season picks up. It's actually been good - I get to see how the pediatric office works.

I wonder what could be next!

Random

2009-10-09T10:10:00.000-05:00

I was going through some pictures - pictures I've meant to post and/or blog about. Here's one I thought was funny.

Travis' chew toy boot in the midst of Aaron's shoes!

Still adjusting...

2009-09-28T14:43:00.003-05:00

Well, here goes...another blog. I realize it's been over a month since the last posting. I mean, you can't really call it a post since I just linked the wedding video, right? I honestly thought life would slow down after the wedding, but it hasn't till now - 3.5 months later. Trips to Murfreesboro, New Orleans, Natchitoches, West Virginia, Savannah - I'm not really sure when our last "nothing to do" weekend was.

Having said this, I applied and accepted a job in the ER at a hospital in Hot Springs. I spent a week in classroom orientation to find that it's nothing like Vanderbilt! :) At this point, I found myself to be homesick. I started working on the unit the following week, and I really enjoyed working with my preceptor. I tried convincing myself that (re-) learning about adults would be very beneficial. Hot Springs is a retirement community, so the patient population is consists of geriatrics. After two and a half weeks, I discovered that I don't like working with adults! Hence, I resigned from my position.

So, it's just Travis and I hanging out on the couch, which Mr. PursuingPineapple slaves away! :)

I guess you can say...I'm still adjusting!

Wedding Highlights

2009-08-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a video link of the wedding highlights by Gambill Photography.

Officially an Arkansan!

2009-07-28T15:30:00.001-05:00

Most of you know the meaning of my Tennessee license plate. Rachel Nickens the Registered Nurse. With the new name, RWTHERN wouldn't have the same effect!

A week or so ago, after I received my social security card (because you can't change anything unless you have a new one), I went to get my new tags.

Officially an Arkansan!

Happy birthday - to me!

2009-07-25T08:00:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday to me! Aaron surprised me on Monday evening with a quick trip to Memphis for Wednesday night! We met in Memphis last year - right before my birthday. We, again, stayed at the Madison.

Thursday morning, Aaron and I walked up and down Beale Street. We went to one of our favorite stores: A. Schwab. We had to try on the hats!

We stopped by Peabody Place and walked around. We treated ourselves to Maggie Moo's. Had some Red Velvet ice cream! Oh my, it was so good! :)

Friday evening, Kaitlin and Matt came up early, Donnie and Lori came over - and we had hot dogs and birthday cake! We bought the "Party Animal" hat in Memphis. We're starting a tradition - those celebrating birthdays with the Wards will wear the hat during the 'birthday song.' :) So, I had the pleasure of starting off the tradition!

Yellow cake and chocolate icing! It was so good!

Thank you all for the birthday wishes! Had a wonderful week/end of birthday festivities! :)

Adjusting to Arkadoo

2009-07-15T09:20:00.000-05:00

Arkadelphia...It's a great place to call home.

Well, that's what the tower says! :) It is a place to call home, because it is home.

Everyone asks, "How's married life?" And, married life is wonderful. I'm loving it! It's simply because we're together. We're doing the little things that I looked forward to: having lunch together, hanging out with other couples, sitting on the steps outside with Travis and talking.

Having said that, I'm adjusting to Arkadoo. I've been hanging out with the girls at the gym and going to the water park. It's a nice change of pace. I'm still getting use to the 5 minutes across town versus 25 minutes in Murfreesboro. Yesterday, I was going to get my tags for the car, and the lady told me that the computers were down and they weren't able to process the information. She continued to apologize, and I told her that it wasn't a big deal. "It's only 5 minutes to get to anywhere." The ladies in the office thought it was funny. She was originally from Detroit, so she could relate.

I've applied for a job in Hot Springs - in an ER, so I'm waiting to hear back from them.

That's a quick up to date on the life of Mrs. PursuingPineapple! Exciting, huh? :)

(I promise to blog more often)!

Mrs. PursuingPineapple

2009-06-30T09:36:00.005-05:00

That's right, I'm now Mrs. PursuingPineapple, and I couldn't be happier! :)

It was the best day of my life - surrounded by family and friends - marrying the man of my dreams!

Pictures are available for viewing online at Gambill Photography!

Unemployed...

2009-06-05T17:00:00.000-05:00

So, yeah...never thought much about it, until Aaron make a comment about me being unemployed. While it is true - it's somewhat hard to accept! I worked my last official shift at the PedsEd Wednesday. The last few shifts have been bittersweet. While, I'm maintaining a shift a month at Vandy - it'll never be the same. On my last night, Amy H. made me a veil - out of bubble wrap, cast lining/net, EKG leads.

A few shower pictures...

2009-06-05T16:30:00.005-05:00

I sit here and realize that I haven't blogged close to 2 months. I apologize for the laziness/business.

Over the last few weeks, I've has several showers. Here are some pictures.

My first shower given by sweet friends at work.

Another one given by my 2 MATRON of honors: Kim & Ashley.

Our next shower was given to us by our Life Group.

We had shower given to by our friends at Fellowship!

Our most recent shower was given to us by the church - where we met, Third Baptist Church. Here's Joy with my Mom - she's going to fill in for me, when I move. Thanks, dear! :)

Thank you to the lovely hostesses!

Mom and me!

Great times!

2009-04-25T08:29:00.006-05:00

Apologize for not posting more often, but as the wedding quickly approaches, I'm finding myself becoming more busy!

Wow. What a wonderful two weeks it's been for Aaron and me. We have both made trips to each other - over the last two week/ends.

These last weekends have been busy ones. Both weeks/ends combined: invitations: stuffing, labeling, stamping, engagement photo session, 3 wedding showers, coffee cupping with friends, made an appearance to a potluck, Kentucky Derby Party, impromptu photo session. Here are a few pictures:

These two weeks combined have been absolutely amazing - it's almost a glimpse of what married life will be like. I'm so looking forward to starting our journey together.

40 more days...til I become Mrs. Pursuing Pineapple!

Wedding update...

2009-04-04T14:00:00.000-05:00

70 days to go to the big day. And just to think, this time last year, I was planning a trip to go see Aaron - which was the beginning of our 'negotiations."

I must say everything is coming together quite well.

The invitations were ordered and received fairly quickly. They'll be going out at the end of the month.
We finalized our music and scripture for the ceremony. Submitted them to the music minister and the minister officiating our ceremony. Approved! ;)
I purchased and received my shoes.
Aaron has made the layout of the programs.
Confirmed the bridal luncheon. Have to work on those invitations.
The remaining dresses and items have come in for the girls.
My dress came in on 3/31. Have an alteration appointment schedule for 4/14 at 2pm! So exciting.

Had my first bridal shower yesterday, hosted by some of the girls from work. Here is a picture of Anna and me. Anna is getting married May 2nd.

I know there is still so much to do, but I'm enjoying every minute of it!

She's officially retired...

2009-04-03T09:00:00.001-05:00

She's officially retired. Yes, my first car ever. 1993 Pontiac Grand Am Coupe. 5 speed. Got her January 1997. Drove her home once my dad and I got into the country area, and I could take the side roads home. I managed, with a few stall outs. She made many a trips: to West Virginia, more so to Vanderbilt. Once I bought my Altima, I kept her around to drive to and from work to keep the mileage off my Altima.

A couple of weeks ago, I drove to work one evening - everything seem to be fine. I left work a little early - 6am. I got in the car to start it...and nothing. I called VUPD to see if they could give me a jump, thinking it could be my battery. The officer said that it didn't seem to be the problem. So, I had to make arrangements to have it towed home. It was an expensive way to get home!

Since then, my dad and brother had some people to look at it to see if it was worth fixing. The answer was no. Not really sure what's wrong with her. It was a sad moment for me. She and I had gone along way together! :)

another late night blog...

2009-03-17T02:00:00.001-05:00

It's 2am - seems like that's when I've done most of my blogging lately.

Over the last week, I haven't been sleeping well. Most of you know, I work night shift, 7p-7a (3 12 hour shifts, which end up being usually 16 hours by the time I get up - work - home). However when I'm not working, I always flip back to a day shift schedule. It's almost been a week - and I haven't quite adjusted for some reason. I know the end of last week was due to the flu. Now, I'm feeling better, and I'm sitting here at the computer yawning, but once I lay down - I seem to be wide awake. And when I do fall asleep, I wake up every hour or so.

Is it because I work night shift? Maybe.
Is it just one of those periods where I can't sleep well? Probably.
Is it stress related? I don't think so - because I think everything is coming together quite well.
Am I ready to be at the point in my life where I can sleep throughout the night? Absolutely. That doesn't look like it's going to happen till after June 3rd(which is my tentative last day/night at Vandy before the wedding)!

I'm going back to bed...hoping to fall asleep soon.

thoughts at 3am...

2009-03-12T03:15:00.001-05:00

it's 3am, and i'm awake. i only went to sleep at 12:15am. stupid night shift has my sleep schedule out of sync.
there's nothing on TV at 3am. not even on PPV - at least worth paying for.
commercials are horrible at 3am.
i did catch the last few minutes of bridezilla. i have to admit i laughed, but i think i have most of it planned in advance, that hopefully i won't be too crazy toward the end. :)
i've looked through my blog - and i stated that if i worked 4 nights in a row - someone stop me. well, i've lost count on how many 4 in a rows i've done. however, i think this last one will be my last - i'm exhausted; i can't sleep; i don't feel good. and i've been told that i can't do more than 3 in a row anymore! :)
i want a sense of normalcy - especially my sleep schedule, but that doesn't look like it's going to happen til at least June 3rd(tentative last day at VCH).
the watusi are back - meaning they're across street from my parents. i'll have to take some new pictures.
i'm so excited to be seeing my favorite doctor tomorrow evening.
93 days til i marry the man of my dreams.

100 days

2009-03-05T09:00:00.001-06:00

I can't believe that March is here. Three and a half more months...100 more days! I'm so excited and yet nervous at the same time. So many changes, so many transitions, but absolutely worth it!

Psalm 100

Be Thankful

1 Show triumphantly to the Lord, all the earth.

2 Serve the Lord with gladness;

come before Him with joyful songs.

3 Acknowledge that the Lord is God.

He made us, and we are His --

His people, the sheep of His pasture.

4 Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.

Give thanks to Him and praise His name.

5 For the Lord is good, and His love is eternal;

His faithfulness endures through all generations.

I'm extremely thankful for all of the blessings He has provided. Thank you all for your continuing love and support!

Counting down the days...

2009-02-02T17:50:00.002-06:00

I'm now at that point where I'm counting down the days til June 13th. I must admit, what Aaron and I are doing helps out tremendously. Some friends of who got married last July mentioned reading the books of Psalms - starting at day 150 days from the wedding. I mentioned this to Aaron - who liked the idea. Well, I started numbering the days - 150 days back from June 13th, so that I would know when we were to start reading. Day 150 was January 14th. I noticed that day 119 was on Valentine's Day. However, what I did was counted backwards, instead of counting numerical order. So, having said this, we've been reading Psalms, starting at 150. This, too, reminds us how many days we have left til our special day. I've found that these verses have been what I've needed in my daily life - time of reflection, thanksgiving, patience.

Reflection of 2008

2009-01-12T20:15:00.000-06:00

As I was looking through some blogs, I saw a few reflections of the past year. So I decided I would do the same - almost halfway through January 2009.

2008

January

Sinus surgery #2

February

Don't recall anything significant

March

Took a trip to Birmingham to see my sweet LeeAnna!

April

Ordered glasses and contacts for the first time!
Took a trip to Arkadelphia for the weekend - Prairie Home Companion & the beginning of some "negotiations."

May

Softball season.
2nd annual trip to the Dancing Dog Bed & Breakfast.

June

Stem-Crabtree Wedding
The moment when I knew I had found love, peace, and the me I was meant to be!

July

Meeting the Ward family
A trip to Spartanburg, SC to see another beautiful couple married: Collins-Jett wedding!
A short & sweet trip to Memphis - celebrating my birthday!

August

A week long trip to Newfoundland - wonderful experience!
Belleville River Bash.
8.29.08 - I got engaged to Pursuing Pineapple!!
Ashley's bridal shower!
Jarboe-Rowe wedding.

September

The beginning of planning for the big day - 6.13.2009
The remembrance of my nephew, Dalton (9.2.2005).
Quick trip to West Virginia to visit the family! Wonderful weekend at the River. Weekend filled with food, fun, fellowship, and CORNHOLE!
Greer-Singleton Wedding!

October

10 year high school reunion
Dress shopping - where I found my dress at the White Room.
2 trips to Arkadelphia
Halloween with Aaron, as Fred and Wilma. Had the greatest time passing out candy to the kids. I think the best moments were the children trying to figure out who Aaron really was.

November

Same trip - 1st engagement party in Arkadelphia!
More wedding planning, details!

December

Spent the weekend with Aaron's family in Natchitoches, LA - the Christmas Festival. Tour of the town where Steel Magnolias was filmed. Got to see some plantations homes, which I loved. CHRISTMAS PARADE & FIREWORKS. Had a wonderful time with my new family.
Signed the papers to put my house up for sale - a little emotional and overwhelming.
Christmas with Aaron in Murfreesboro. It was a great weekend - I think we both gave gifts to the other knowing that we would both get them back. I got him the Wii, with WilPlay & Mario Kart. He got me a BEAUTIFUL 1994 Matisse painting - appears to be a fatigued bride lounging back in a chair - I'm sure I'll be able to 'relate.'

Just a few memorable moments of 2008. Already make more in 2009 - and we still have the year to go!

My apologies....

2009-01-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

As you most know, I'm engaged to an incredible man! I'm extremely blessed that God gave us 'another' opportunity. I do apologize for the lack of blogging(to our dear friends from Maryland). I've been quite busy getting all the details underway.

Onto important things...

The church and reception are booked. Had that done within about 2 weeks of the engagement. I know lots of people were teasing me, asking, "What are you doing to do next week if you get everything done this week?"
The dress and veil have been ordered. Should be in by April. Love it. Can't wait to try it on(again), altered, fitted!
Bridesmaids dresses. Easy. Black and white.
Florist. Photographer. Cake. Done!
Finally found junior bridesmaid dress that were on sale, that would fit my 3 girls, and that were in stock. (They were on sale, because the style was being discontinued. I wanted to make sure, without rushing the two families, that they were able to order the dresses without difficulty, so that all 3 girls would have on the same dress. However, honestly, it's not something I was going to worry about had they been different).l
Thanks to some more dear friends of ours - we had some 'unofficial' engagement photos made in the downtown area of Arkadelphia. And we used one of the photos, and the talents of our friends to make our save the date cards - which will be mailed at the end of this month.
Speaking of save the date cards, I've had to give Aaron a date for him to complete his portion of the invites/labels. His response, "I have a date to work towards." I did tell him that I didn't mind typing them for him.

Things to do...

Finish the hotel accommodations for our out of town guests - which has somewhat been an ordeal.
Menu for the rehearsal dinner and reception.
Decide on invitations
A calligrapher...or someone with nice handwriting. If you know of any, please let us know. I think I'm almost to the point - "Who cares? The guests aren't going to keep the envelope, right?"
REGISTERING. We're doing this on Thursday, Jan 29th.
Send the save the dates cards.
Start working on our blog (that will be listed on the save the date card) that will have info about each of us, information, hotel accommodations, interests, touristy items.
I'm sure there are more things I've forgotten.
Most of all, PAYING for the wedding! :)

I'm so excited. It seems so much more real since we're in 2009. There's alot of transitioning that lies ahead, and each day, I keep trying to prepare myself. I'm ready...I'm ready to become Pursuing Pineapple's wife. I'm ready for June 13, 2009.

Thank you to each and everyone one of you - for your love, support, encouragement.

Veterans Day

2008-11-11T10:15:00.000-06:00

I would like to take this time to thank all of the veterans who have served and those currently serving our country. I have several in my family that have served: my grandfather, Air Force; my aunt & uncle both served in the Air Force. None takes precedence over the other, but I'm proud to say that my father served in the Army in WWII, in the 9th Infantry. It's hard to imagine, but he did. And you're thinking, your father was in WWII. Yes, he was. He'll be 83 in February. I'm extremely blessed to have him as my father.

Weekend in Arkadoo!

2008-11-03T20:00:00.001-06:00

Spent the weekend in Arkansas with Aaron. We decided to dress up as the Flintstones.

Within an hour and a half, we managed (mostly Aaron) to fix the curtains and make Travis a costume that he only wore for about 15-20 minutes! He sure looks cute! :)

Aaron and I also had some pictures taken - on Thursday on Feaster Trail and the urban part of downtown Arkadelphia! :) Thank you to D&L professional photogs!

Here is one of Aaron's favorites.

Here is one of mine...

Last, and certainly not least - what I was looking forward to - celebrating our engagement with family and friends in Arkadelphia. It was a wonderful. And it was truly a blessing to see so many people who cared! It couldn't have been possible with our Aaron's family - soon to be mine! They were awesome - making sure everything was where it needed to be, while we were greeting our guests. Thank you so much! Love you dearly!

It was a great weekend - went by very quickly! Had a great time seeing the family, friends. I was sad to see it come to an end.

RHS - Class of 98 - Reunion

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

This weekend was my 10 year high school reunion - Riverdale High School, Murfreesboro, TN. Wow, 10 years, right? There were a few people I've kept in contact with. Mainly those that I went to nursing school with, which happened to be the people I work with in the Children's Hospital.

I guess MySpace and Facebook serve a purpose. Have reconnected with alot of people from my class. However, our 'student body officers' did a wonderful making arrangements for us to get together on Friday and Saturday night.

Julie Goodwin & I. We made arrangements to meet before - and hang out together during the event. Friday evening, we met at the school cafeteria, had BBQ, & talked.

Afterwards, we went to the football game. It was Homecoming night. The announcer recognized us - welcoming us - and how we're celebrating "28." (I know not all of us are 28). Just a strange comment to make! Lots of us were sitting there trying to remember the cheers we use to say in school. And most of us remembered our alma mater!! We were winning 42-7 at halftime. Many of us left after the Homecoming Court presentation.

Saturday night - we met at the Double Tree & had a party. I wasn't too sure how it was going to turn out. Because the night before - it was just like high school - everyone was with their clique(cheerleaders, band, etc). Everyone mingled together last night - which made it much more fun. I was quite surprised at how many people have moved back to Murfreesboro/Middle Tennessee area - after college.

It was great to see everyone - especially those that you've known the longest. Above, Mary and I - we've known each other since kindergarten!

One of the last pictures of the evening, Amy, Julie & me.

I've posted the rest of the pics on Facebook & MySpace.

Cash 25 Winners!

2008-09-15T22:45:00.001-05:00

Congratulations - again - to my Kate & John (my aunt and uncle) on their recent winnings of the Cash 25. That's right, they won $25,000. Amazing, huh? That's what they thought, too, when they were watching the news - simply because they think their news anchors are funny. When they numbers rolled by, Kate was speechless (and my Mom's response when Kate was telling the story - "It's probably only one of the few times in your life."). She told John - "those are our numbers." And he said, "You probably messed it up or something." Good thing about DVRs - you can rewind and watch it again. And that's what they did - about 4-5 times! They were so excited that they could hardly sleep. John was ready at 6am to make that drive to Charleston! After taxes, they still got a check for a good amount! On top of that, she won $250 on a row below it!

While waiting, they gave them 2 t-shirts and 2 hats. So, on Friday - at the river - they were sportin' their new apparel! :)

The Engagement Story!

2008-09-04T17:20:00.002-05:00

Here's the story...you can go to Aaron's blog with all of the details and the video! :)

I'm engaged! :)

2008-08-29T23:45:00.001-05:00

I was asked the big question! And I said, "Yes!" More details to follow, including photos and the video of the proposal!

Poncho the Possum

2008-08-25T14:00:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday (after work - I had to go to a funeral service), I went to pick up my Mom, and we went to church where the service was being held. As I'm driving, my Mom tells me this story. She said that last night they(my parents) heard a noise on the porch, and the dogs(Joli and Barney) were barking. Mom goes outside to see what it is - and it's a possum that has gotten into the dog food. My mother - being the photographer that she is - gets her digital camera that I got her for her birthday and proceeds to take pictures of this possum. She laid the garbage barrel(what she had the dog food in) on it's side so that the possum could get out AND obtain a better picture.

A few days later - same thing - Joli had heard something and started barking. Mom goes out and see the possum curled up in the dog food.

Mom has decided to name him Poncho! :)

Quote of the morning

2008-08-24T05:30:00.001-05:00

So, around 5am, I had a three-fer come in with vomiting. The 9 y/o didn't look well at all - had been vomiting since 2100. The 7 y/o vomited in the parking garage and mainly just appeared tired. After all, it was 5am. The 5 y/o was fine - she hadn't started yet. Mom wanted her evaluated simply because her siblings were ill. One of our MDs goes to assess the patients.

And the youngest one said, "We had chicken for dinner, and we ate too much!"

I'm sure it didn't have everything to do with it, but it's definitely a possibility.

Newfoundland trip with details...

2008-08-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

August 6th:

The Royal St. John's (the longest annual competition in North America) Regatta was postponed due to weather. On the day of this event, the entire town shuts down. It is usually held on the first Wednesday of August - however, this year it was held on Friday, August 8th.

So, we went to Topsail Beach:

We also did some scouting in CBS - Convention Bay South. We(our van - Steve, Jackie, Bruce, Tiffany, Terry, & me) returned back to the college (Memorial University). It was about 2 hours later when the first van(Larry, Judy, Tony, Carolyn, Roger, Ed, Angie) returned - needless to say, they were LOST in Newfoundland! :)

That evening, a few of us went to Signal Hill - took pictures of the city.

August 7th:

We hiked down Signal Hill - was able to get several shots: Fort Amherst and the waves crashing into the bank.

Here's a shot of a row of houses - with different colors.

August 8th - Regatta Day:

I love rowing! I wish I would have went to UTK just to row - and of course go to school! :) And the greatest thing about this competition is that it can be anybody. Meaning, it can be a softball team, a group from a bank or law firm. They have access to the boathouse. So, I think it's pretty cool.

That evening we went out to eat and we 'celebrated' the Warden's birthday(without him knowing it). We sent the girls to sing Happy Birthday to him - and the Moose Head!

That evening, we played Spades: Jackie & me vs Terry & Tiffany. And one of the quotes of the week, Terry said, "I'd rather play cards than eat."

August 9th:

Topsail beach for some backyard bible club. While waiting for people to show up (the weather was yucky the entire time - it was the misting rain) - some of us had a little fun.

Me...on the seesaw.

Afterwards, our van went to Fort Amherst - the first lighthouse in Newfoundland.

August 10th:

We attended church at the St. John Cathedral(Anglican). It was beautiful! It was the first church of Newfoundland.

After an hour and a half service - and the hour and a half tour, we went to Cape Spear - the most easterly point of North America. We also were able to do a little bit of whale watching.

Whale tail!

August 11th:

We all finished up what bit of shopping we needed to do. We also noticed that people were out mowing their yards(in the misting rain) with push mowers and whipper snippers(which we know as weedeaters). And all week long - there always seem to be a line at Tim ("Crack") Hortons.

August 12th:

Our flight was delayed an hour and a half, because pilots who fly into Newfoundland are those who fly out - and they have to have an 8 hour clearance from flight to flight. Meaning, the pilots flew in around 1:30am that morning.

We hit some turbulence on the way to Newark. Had a slight delay in Newark, but we still made it to Nashville on time at 4pm.

It was a great trip. Our mission was fulfilled - we spoke to those we came in contact with, and God will take care of the rest.

"Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit..." Matthew 28:19

Newfoundland trip!

2008-08-13T11:45:00.000-05:00

What a trip! Newfoundland was great. Had a wonderful time - spending the week with people I knew and those that I knew of, but hadn't had the opportunity to spend some quality time with. This was a much needed trip - I was able to reach out those in Newfoundland, but as a friend told me, usually mission trips end up being slightly selfish - because tend to see where we need to be spiritually, and see how truly blessed we really are.

It's going to take my a little bit of time to go through pictures and tell you more about the trip. I'll start working on it this week and hopefully have a better description of the week for you. However, I'm currently posting the photos on Facebook, so that you can see what we did throughout the week.

Thank you to all of you - your thoughts and prayers this week!

Newfoundland - update!

2008-08-04T16:25:00.000-05:00

Due to the weather in Houston - they changed our flight. We're leaving later (meeting at the church at 6:30am) - flight leaves 9:35am - getting into Newark at 12:55pm. We have a 5 hour layover! With the transit system, we can get to New York in about 30 min! Woohoo! Even more excited now!

Newfoundland!

2008-08-04T13:45:00.002-05:00

Heading out to Newfoundland tomorrow! If some of us need a history lesson, you can find Newfoundland by viewing this map.

It's not going to be bright, but definitely early! We have to be at the church at 4am. We're flying over half of the U.S. (Houston, TX, Newark, NJ), then to St. John's, Newfoundland) - only to get there are 11pm! There's a two and a half hour time difference. All day of flying and delays! Woohoo!

Plan on taking lots of pictures, so I'll have plenty to post when I return! Have a good week!

Camp Hope

2008-08-02T15:00:00.000-05:00

I know many of you have heard me speak of Camp Hope - it is truly a passion of mine! My friend, Ashley and I directed this camp for 3 years, and I was involved with it 3 years prior. I love these kids! They have hold a dear place in my heart!

Camp Hope is a for children who are burn survivors! I had the opporunity to go out and see them yesterday for a few hours. It was so great to see them - letting me know how much they missed us. I can't post most of the pictures due to HIPPA, but here are few of myself and some of the other counselors!

Here's Samantha - wearing all of the fireman's gear in 95 degree heat! She's one of the occupational therapist.

This is Kelly. She's a survivor of Stephens-Johnson Syndrome. She has participated by being one of the counselors for several years!

LifeFlight made their appearance! The kids were super excited.

I'll close this post with a quote that I think sums up a burn survivor - a true survivor.

"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These people have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep, loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen."
~Elizabeth Kubler Ross~

July 25, 1980

2008-07-25T07:55:00.000-05:00

28 years ago, Rachel Susan Nickens was born! I've attached a few photos. Hope you enjoy!

Here's a picture of my brother, Ethan and me. He, too, was sportin' the tube socks!

Here I was, sitting in the drawer - seemed to be a cool place to be!

Loved the tireswing. I mean, LOVED IT! There's my dad in the background.

Little Miss Gangsta Rachel - with my hat to da' side! Haha!

And here we are - 28 years later!

Happy birthday, Mr. Briggs!

2008-07-25T07:45:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday, Jackie Briggs! You are da' man! Hope you have a fabulous day!

You're awesome! And I'm blessed to have such a good friend as you! Thanks, Jackie! Love ya man!

The night we decorated Ali's house!

@ Aaron's, May 2007!

@ Ali's - being crazy! :)

Destin -September 2007

Christmas 2007

June 2008

Thank you, Jackie for all of the great memories! :)

Spartanburg!

2008-07-20T18:00:00.000-05:00

Spent the weekend in Spartanburg, SC - for a friend's wedding. Mary, Veronica, and I drove over Friday, and we came home today.

Here we are getting ready Friday evening to go to dinner.

We spent Saturday go to the shoppes on the square. We had lunch at Groucho's Deli.

After shopping, we drove around the Hamilton Historic District. We saw some houses we liked and one - not so much!

And here's the one we didn't care for - I mean, who puts these colors together!?

So, the reason for the trip was the wedding of Blaire Collins and Kevin Jett. It was beautiful wedding - here's the beautiful couple!

We were just here a year ago - actually in Summerville, SC - for Melissa & Drew's wedding. They will be celebrating their one year anniversary tomorrow, the 21st. Happy Anniversary! :)

What a great weekend!

2 more babies & 2 zebras

2008-07-08T21:30:00.000-05:00

I know most of you think I'm crazy for watching these watusis. However, there are two more babies that are so cute. Below is the newest one:

Below are the other babies.

And the crazy thing is - that there are now 2 zebras in the mix. Yes, two zebras. Aaron asked me if I was sure my parents weren't living some African Safari. Sure enough, there are two zebras amongst the watusi clan.

Hopefully, one day, I plan on going to his property to see what else he has. Mom says that he has some buffalo, ostriches, and some Scottish cows. So we'll see. I'll keep you updated.

Remind me...

2008-07-02T04:00:00.000-05:00

Remind me - if and when I have kids - to take them to the ER (that morning) to be diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection and when he/she has a fever at 2300 to call an ambulance to take them back to the ER. I'm just saying...

Not even a gallon...

2008-06-30T08:45:00.000-05:00

On my way to work yesterday, I stopped to get gas. As I was getting ready to swipe my card, I noticed the amount of purchase and gallons. However, this individual didn't even get a gallon of gas. It was pointed out that perhaps they were getting gas for the lawnmower or weedeater. Aren't those containers, like 5 gallons? The few people I have mention this to have told me stories - back when gas was much cheaper - how they had to find all the spare change in the car so that they could make it a little further.

The question is - do you let it run till it's almost empty or do you tend to keep it full? :)

Welcome Jack Jack!

2008-06-25T05:05:00.000-05:00

I would like to welcome Jack Jack, Tin Man, Mr. Briggs - the man with many names - to the Blogger family! :) Yah!

Birthday Festivities!

2008-06-25T04:30:00.000-05:00

For Joy's birthday, we all went to Outback Steakhouse for dinner!

Here's the birthday girl wearing the tiara!

Here are the newlyweds: Mr. & Mrs. Crabtree!
Erica is next in line for the tiara!

Patty, Robbie, & Ali

A group shot of us. Patty took our picture, despite of us telling her to get in the picture. That's why Joy is pointing her finger at her!

And of course, we had to end the evening with the trio!

Once again, happy birthday, MJ! I hope you had a wonderful day!

Happy birthday, MJ!

2008-06-24T08:40:00.001-05:00

Happy birthday, friend! Hope you have a fabulous 28th! Can't wait to go to Outback Steakhouse - for your birthday! Haha!

Love you bunches!

It's a baby - watusi!

2008-06-21T22:10:00.000-05:00

It's a baby - watusi - that is! This is the new addition to the watusi family - that is across the road from where my parents live. She's about 7-8 weeks ago. She's cute when she's running and playing. My Mom has decided to name her Wanda - the watusi!

Here are her parents. As you know from my previous blog - they have some big ole' horns! So, it's going to be fun to watch Wanda get bigger and get her horns!

Updates on Wanda to come!

It's 2am...

2008-06-18T03:05:00.003-05:00

It's 2am - and I'm driving home from work. Scheduled an extra shift from 7p-3a. Since we had such wonderful staff - I was able to leave an hour early.

So...that 40 mile drive home at 2am. It was quite nice - and I wasn't tired, which is unusual. I find it more difficult driving home from 2a-5a, than after my 12 hours at 7a.

I-24 East to Murfreesboro: A clear evening, the moon is almost full. The interstate was nearly empty - no cars in front of me, no cars behind me. Whereas, I passed semi after semi heading toward Nashville or wherever their destination maybe.

It was a good drive home - where I was able to enjoy the cooler weather - decompress from the night at work. On occasion, I tend to think that I like having at 45-50 minute drive home - where I can wind down from the evening - but sometimes, it just isn't enough.

Hope everyone is sleeping well! :)

Saturday's events!

2008-06-15T22:30:00.003-05:00

Saturday's events started off with the wedding of Ricky & Erica Stem Crabtree. Here's a pic of the crew at the reception.

It was nice to see Aaron over the weekend. Here is the '"stylin' " doctor himself - seersucker - for the southern, June wedding, but also the skull and crossbone socks!

A little later in the evening, we ate dinner at Red Robin and played Putt Putt at Go USA. Here's a cute picture of Ali-gato.

Here are the ladies - MJ, Ruby Red, and myself. One of the frequent pictures of us...

Below is the video taken of the guys(Aaron, John, Jackie) versus the girls(Ali, Andrea, Crystal) playing Bazooka Ball. I know they were having fun, but Joy and I were having just as much fun watching them! I think we found ourselves a new thing to do.

This video below is for Tricia, Kaitlin, & Matt - for your viewing pleasure, Aaron attempting to keep his pants on while Stompin' Spiders(with assistance from Andrea). Sorry - you have to turn you head!

What a great weekend!

For your viewing pleasure!

2008-06-06T22:40:00.006-05:00

The Outrigger Rhapsody: The Adventures of Pastor Mike & the Missions Man

Along with that, I'm adding the Rhapsody performed by Tin Man, Rickystyx, and Dave-O on our way home from Destin last year!

Blonde Hair-Therapy!

2008-06-05T15:30:00.000-05:00

Yes, another day of hair therapy. Always have a great day when I get to hang out with Kim. Not only does she make me look better - she listens to me. She is a true friend - and I love her dearly.

Added more blonde today! Woohoo! :) Tomorrow: manicure and pedicure!

A FOUR-fer

2008-06-03T23:10:00.000-05:00

Who in their right mind brings all four of their children to be seen for fever and vomiting? None other than a parent tonight. All of them had the same symptoms - hence they are passing it to each other! Gees! Just had to get that out there! Needless to say, I'm in triage tonight. Woohoo! I have to say it hasn't been bad - just steady. Oh, I hear the machine - stamping up another card - meaning someone just checked in! It's a fever! Tylenol &/or motrin people!

2 hours, 80 miles later...

2008-06-03T13:15:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, I work in Nashville, which is 40 miles one way for me. Today, I had to present a lecture on Burns for the new nurses in our department. I also have to go back to work tonight. So that'll be 4 hours spent driving, 180 miles later - in less than 24 hours! On my way home, I decided I need a chauffeur! :) Not likely, but the thought was nice. It's off to attempt an afternoon nap - before slaving away for 12 hours - listening to crying, screaming children. The story of my life - driving and work!

A relaxing weekend.

2008-05-26T09:30:00.000-05:00

Alicat, Papa John, RubyRed (aka Marzipan, aka Quesadilla, Rice, & Beans), MJ, and I went to visit Aaron over Memorial Day weekend.

It was a wonderful weekend. We ate at El Mariachi - who, by the way, has the best chicken chimichanga ever! We realized that Hutson wouldn't like to eat there, because you have to pay for drinks to go!

We watched Enchanted - "It's good."

We attempted to play Petanque. However, it was quite humid & muggy outside. We decided to play some other games inside.

We watched 27 Dresses - "She's got electric boobs."

We had the opportunity to attend Strip Mall Baptist, aka Fellowship. Haha! Afterwards, we bought some groceries and made lunch. Play some UNO Attach - that Alicat whoop us in! :) Donnie and Lori joined us to play Battle of The Sexes. I'm not quite sure why we even attempt to play this game, because the last time we played - yes, the guys beat us. What happened this time - the guys beat us. And Aaron would have beat us in round two had we not gotten the "proceed to the end" wild card!

We talked. We laugh - laughed so hard that we cried. Throw a KA-POW - when someone wasn't expecting it. Watched some YouTube videos. Reminisced to Aaron's music list on iTunes (Shake It!) and the Baptist Hymnal. It was the weekend that we all needed - no agenda - just quality time.

This is Travis. He's my boyfriend. He tends to get tired of me, but he always comes back.

Thank you to the owner/operator of the Dancing Dog Bed & Breakfast for our pleasant stay.

"Mild Pertussis."

2008-05-13T13:45:00.000-05:00

So, you remember back when I said that I had been exposed to pertussis? So, I finally went to the doctor - walk in clinic - today. He didn't give me a real diagnosis, however he did say that it was "mild pertussis." He gave me antiobiotics for my sinus infection (which won't cover the mild pertussis), an expectorant, and suppressant - which I never understood the two, but whatever! :)

I thought it was funny, considering the several exposures over the last several months.

Jack & Jill

2008-05-13T13:30:00.000-05:00

"All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy and Jill a rich widow."

~Evan Esar

The trio! & Mr. Briggs

2008-05-12T11:30:00.000-05:00

Here's a new photo of MJ, Ruby Red, and myself. MJ & I - with our new specs! Here's to many more pics together!

JB, Mr. Briggs, Jack-Jack, TinMan, the man with many names. Jackie here with magnets 'coming out' of his eyes. Looks like little chicken feet! :)

Ankole-Watusi (cattle)

2008-05-10T17:00:00.002-05:00

My mom told me that there were some longhorn cattle in the field across the street. So, I thought I would take this time to practice with my new camera - because I'm taking photos at the parent-child dedication tomorrow at church.

Here are some pretty impressive photos - to me at least! And below is some information on them from Wikipedia! :)

Ankole-Watusi cattle are a breed of cattle native to Africa. They have very large, distinctive horns similar to a Texas Longhorn. They are sometimes known as Ankole or Watusi. Like many cattle, they are the descendents of the Aurochs who became extinct in the 17th century. Watusi are native to Africa and, for over 6000 years, have played a pivotal role in the lives of various African tribes - Tusi, Ankole, Bahima, Bashi, Kegezi, and the Kivu - although the Tutsi are most often associated with the breed. The cattle provided food, currency, and tribal status. In Rwanda, where the Tutsi ruled, Watusi were known as "Insanga" or "the ones which were found" and "Inyambo" or "the cows with long, long horns." Those with the largest and longest horns belonged to the King and were considered sacred, with some individuals having horns that measure twelve feet from tip to tip. The breed is often referred to as the 'Cattle of Kings'.

Have you missed me...

2008-05-09T20:20:00.002-05:00

because I've sure missed you!

As many of you know, my computer was having issues. Come to find, the hard drive had some blanks. Ricky, can you shed some light on the subject? So, in the meantime, I had Freddie to find me a 'back up drive' to download all of my files, so that when my computer crashes, I'll have a back up.

Over the last two weeks, I've made a running list of blog topics. So, you'll have to bear with me, because I'm blogging on RubyRed's computer. Once I get my computer, I will add photos! Also, this is going to be the beginning of one really LONG blog!

4/25/08: The journey to Arkansas...
It's quite simple to get there. It's I-40 all the way, and take a left! The last time a few of us made this journey, it was dark, and I couldn't "appreciate" the interstate. After West Memphis (to Little Rock), there isn't much to see. However, there were so many photo opportunities: the large field sprayers, the lonely tree in the middle of farm land, G & F business building - black and white, random pink flowers on the interstate - in the median.

4/26/08: Prairie Home Companion...Hot Springs, Arkansas
I had asked my friend, Aaron, if would like to a live broadcast of PHC. Let me tell you, it was amazing. It was so cool to see how things come together - especially when you're listening to it on the radio. It was all about Hot Springs -which Aaron was able to relate to, identify with.

And by the way, some of you are familiar with the neighbor that lives down from Aaron - well, I'm sad to say that the prosthetic leg is no longer there, but the Christmas lights still remain.

4/28/08: On the way home...
This is quite funny, maybe even scary....on my way home, on I-40, outside of Jackson - in Waverly, TN, a man - who had to be a worker of the Department of Transportation - was filling in a hole on the interstate IN BETWEEN traffic. It was crazy!!

4/30/08: The night in Triage...
It wasn't a bad night till about 2100, when the bus unloaded about 15 kids and parents! At one point, I had 2-3 kids that were triaged, then I had 15! Throughout the night, I had quite a few that were not sick - fevers and congestion! So, the point of this story is - I'm sick from those stinkin' kids - still to this day(5/9).

5/2/08: Night of Thai...
MJ, RubyRed, and I ate a Fusion - Thai restaurant. It was ok. It was quite funny when we were listening to the instrumental versions of songs by Sting & Faith Hill. I guess it's one of those 'had to be there moments.'

5/5/08:
Woke up that afternoon from working all weekend - still battling this cough and congestion - feeling nauseated. Later that evening, I was feeling better - and Kelly was able to reschedule our softball games - I stopped by A&W/Long John Silver's - expecting a fountain root beer to drink, to see a 2 liter of A&W on the counter. Disappointing, huh?

Which leads me to today's topic - Motorcyclists!
I was on my way home from picking up my new contacts, and there was a guy on motorcycle, with his IPOD on bicep, with the earplugs underneath the helmet. WOW! Lately, there have been radio commercials - making the public aware of motorcyclists. I'm ok with motorcycles - I enjoy riding them - did quite a bit of riding years ago.

I am against the no helmet law - because we will just see even more adults - adolescents in the ED. I have to say that if you decide to ride without a helmet, you should just go ahead and sign the back of your driver's license - to be an organ donor! (Yes, I'll tell you how I really feel)!! Anyways, I found that motorcyclist quite disturbing!

Hope you've enjoyed this quick, brief update of what's going on in the Life of the Nurse! Look forward to catching up with all of you!

Computer is being serviced...

2008-04-30T13:15:00.000-05:00

so blogs will be coming soon. My Mom is going to call today to see if it's ready. It's sad that we rely on them, huh?

Today...

2008-04-25T00:25:00.000-05:00

2.5 hours of sleep
Hair therapy - yes, again! I love getting my hair done!
New specs and contacts
Manicure and pedicure
Olive Garden

Spray tan

2008-04-23T13:15:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I went to get a spray tan - at What's New. I'm really pleased with the results. However, my hands look extremely dirty. Haha! I went by to see Tanya, best friend and massage therapist, because they have a lotion - tan extender. When I got there, I showed her my hands. She went to get Lindsey, who sprayed me, and both of them used an exfoliant to remove the "tan" from my hands. I have to say they look better, but it'll fade.

The spray tan beats going to the tanning bed - which I'm totally guilty of, but I do find it quite relaxing. :)

Tickets are here...

2008-04-19T02:30:00.000-05:00

...for a live broadcast performance of Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor - next weekend! I'm super excited! Looking forward to spending the weekend away and the performance!

In my next life...

2008-04-18T10:30:00.000-05:00

I want to be a commercial airline pilot.

My route to work is I-24, which is adjacent to the airport. So, when I'm driving to work(around 6pm) or coming home(7:30am), I see planes taking off or landing. It always puts me in the mood to travel - to fly somewhere. As I was driving to Nashville to meet some friends, I saw 3 planes taking off, but also in the sky, I saw 5 planes on their way to their destinations. The sun was setting, which you could the exhaust for little while. Of those 5 planes, 3 of them seem to be crossing over each other, which was so cool to see. Plus, Gary Allan's song, Watching Airplanes, was on the radio.

When I was younger, I can remember my Dad telling me that I should be a pilot. He even took me to our local municipal airport - to go flying! It was great!

Instead, I became a nurse. What was I thinking? Just kidding!

So, MJ, you better be ready in our next life, because we're going to Ireland! Haha!

"What is love?"

2008-04-17T17:00:00.000-05:00

What is love? It seems to be a difficult question for people to answer. We are able to express it somehow. We have given it different meanings: interpersonal, impersonal. "I love Mexican food; I love cars; I love you."

Love is a verb. Merriam-Webster gives several definitions: strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties; attraction based on sexual desire; affection based on admiration, benevolence, or common interests; an assurance of love.

Different people place varying degrees of importance on the kinds of love they receive. According to many authors & philosophers, the only goal of life is to be happy. And there is only one happiness in life: to love and be loved. Without love, life would not be worth living. It is the energy that sustains who and what we are. Love is essentially an abstract concept, much easier to experience than to explain.

We go through relationships that either bring us down and/or make us stronger. We realize that love is something that can be lost. And there are days where we wish we were like the Tin Man: we wouldn't have a heart, and we wouldn't need a soul. Each of us are in search of that love that is real, deep, true.

Love is of God. Love can wait, patient. Love is kind. Love is selfless. Love is giving. Love is righteous. Love is moral. Love is peaceful. Love develops. It has no envy, nor it boasts itself and it is never proud. Love protects; preserves and hopes for the positive aspect of life. Love is not only something you feel; it's something you do. Love is the most powerful force in life. Love is neither physical, nor romantic. Love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be and will not be.

Love isn't about finding the perfect person, but learning to see an imperfect person perfectly.

Congratulations!

2008-04-14T11:00:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Dale & Kara Hudson. This is Brystal Rebecca Hudson. Born March 19th, weighing 5 pounds, 2 ounces! I believe she was 19 inches long.

Kara & I have known each other since our freshman year of high school. We played basketball and softball together. She, too, is a nurse. Dale is the UPS man!

I went to visit them yesterday afternoon. I held her the entire time I was there - it was great! :) I've learned that having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.

Looking forward to many more visits!

Another purchase

2008-04-07T22:45:00.000-05:00

So my latest purchase - sound machine. It has six different sounds: rain forest, ocean, heartbeat, summer night, rain, water fall. My personal favorite is rain. Over the weekend, I've set it on a timer for 60 minutes. As warmer weather approaches, I'll have to put it next to be my bed - (right now it's at the foot off the bed) to help mute lawnmowers! :)

New camera!

2008-04-04T14:00:00.000-05:00

Yah! So I decided to go ahead and order my digital camera! It came in last week. I had it delivered to my parents house, because of my crazy schedule. I just now got it from my Mom today. I have to start reading up on how to use this thing. I also have to go purchase a memory card. Pretty excited! :) WOOHOO!

Hair-Therapy today

2008-03-31T20:30:00.000-05:00

Had a hair-therapy session today with Kim. She always makes me look better! Haha! Got some more highlights and a much needed trim.

Exposed again!

2008-03-31T19:30:00.000-05:00

Just checked my work email, and there was an email from Occupational Health. Guess what? Another Pertussis exposure! I really think the VPES(Vanderbilt Pertussis Exposure Study) is hand picking their subjects! Maybe if these children would get their vaccinations, we might not see it so much! Just a thought. What do you think? :)

I'll probably be given another dose (or two) of azithromycin. Antibiotics! Gotta love them. I feel like I've been on them for the last year, due to the sinus issues! So one day, when I really have an infection, nothing is going to treat it, because my body is so resistant!

I'm not bitter...really.

UPDATE: JUST TALKED TO THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSE, AND I HONESTLY DON'T RECALL THE PATIENT. SO, IF I DEVELOP SYMPTOMS, TO NOTIFY THEM! THANK GOODNESS.

A great weekend!

2008-03-30T22:00:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful weekend! A nice little break away from everything. I got to spend the weekend with my beautiful friend! I was able to meet her two friends: Megan and Megan. Hehe!

Here are a few pics...and a few stories.

This is June. She's a big sweetie. She's afraid of men. Megan (LeeAnna's roommate, best friend) is a manager of a vet clinic. Needless to say, they adopt animals! Haha. June is the recent addition. They have two other dogs, Hank & Tank. I like Tank. He's a beagle/lab mix! He's so cute! :)

And of course, the nerdy part of me had to go check out what use to be our competition (not really). UAB combines their Burn and Trauma patients. They have an ICU and a step down from ICU. It's a little confusing. We also checked out Children's Emergency Department. They were under construction, so I didn't take any pictures. 35 bed unit. (Everybody kept asking me when I was moving to Birmingham! Hmmm...).

Fire & Ice. It's much like Golden Eagle, but I like Fire & Ice better. Locations are Massachusetts, Rhode Island, California, Alabama.

After dinner, we went to a dualing piano bar called Twist & Shout. It was alot of fun! Great place to people watch! :)

That about sums up the weekend. It was really funny how many people I've had lately trying to get me to move to different places: Chicago x 2, Birmingham. I had a great time, and I really do miss my LeeAnna! I love her dearly!

Birmingham Bound!

2008-03-28T05:30:00.000-05:00

Can I tell you that I'm super excited to be going to Birmingham this weekend!? :) I'm going to visit this beautiful girl...that I haven't seen since Christmas! YAH! Looking forward to getting away for the weekend and hanging out with LeeAnna. (Plus, I'll get to make more photos with her...this pic was taken at a Christmas party. Posted this pic in December, too).

Apples & Wine

2008-03-25T16:00:00.000-05:00

I got this email today, and I liked it.

To all fine women (& men)! Hehe.

Apples and Wine

Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men dont want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they sometimes take the apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy. The apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who is brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree.

Now men...men are like a fine wine. They begin as grapes, and its up to the women to stomp the crap out of them until they turn into something acceptable to have dinner with.

Yes, I'm awake...

2008-03-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

It's 3am...and I'm awake! It's what you get for working night shift! When I'm done working my days in a row or whatever, I try to get back into a "day shift" mode. Meaning, I try to sleep like normal people! :) However, the last several days I've been off, I've found myself waking up between 2-3am. I'll either fall asleep about an hour before the alarm or just stay awake. (Of course, I'm dealing with a few things this week). This is why I record CSI: Miami, Law & Order, Law & Order: SVU(on TBS, TNT). So for the last two hours, I've been watching Law & Order and Law & Order: SVU.

I'm going to try to go back to sleep for an hour or two...at least! :)

In Memory of Lisa

2008-03-24T22:00:00.000-05:00

It was a good service. Standing room only. Lots of tears, lots of laugh. The beginning of emotional healing.

David, Lisa's husband, and another gentleman sang this song below, a cappella.

Some day, written by Olive Stockton

Some day when my last line is written
Some day when I've drawn my last breath
When my last words on earth have been spoken
And my lips are sealed in death

Don't look in my cold form in pity
Don't think of me as one dead
It'll just be house I once lived in
My spirit by then will have fled

I'll have finished my time here allotted
But I'll won't be in darkness alone
I will have heard from heaven
The summons to come on home

And when my body is in the grave
Don't think that I'll be there
I won't be dead, but living
In the place Jesus went to prepare

And after all is said and done
Know that my last earnest prayer
Is that my loved one ready
Some day meet me there

Happy Easter!

2008-03-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter!

Easter was my fourth night in a row. However, we managed to have a good time at work. We all brought in lots of good food to munch on all night!

Renee and I came up with an idea to have an Easter egg hunt on the unit. No, not for the kids. For us! Among the 125 eggs we hid on the unit, about 25 of them had pieces of paper with 'prizes.'

Get out of triage free card (my personal favorite!!!)
Give away a patient
45 min lunch.
Get to go home early
Wear a t-shirt(Vanderbilt Children's) to work
Pick your assignment
Pick you neighbor

And the golden egg prize was the Charge Nurse had to buy that person dinner. Blaire found the golden egg, but I think she traded someone for the get out of triage free card!

Since Renee and I hid the eggs, we did not participate, which was totally fine. One of the transporters got a triage free card. She was so sweet, she gave it to me! :)

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

You just never know...

2008-03-20T01:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know how to begin...because I'm not sure what to think or how to feel. I know nothing that I type is going to flow, per se...so, I apologize for the randomness.

My heart hurts; it aches. I am sad. I am numb. I am in denial. I am emotional. I am vulnerable. I am letting my guard down by blogging about this...

I received the news that my closest friend through nursing school passed away today. She was only 43. A husband, two children. She and I studied together, did projects together. We worked together at the Burn Center. We saw each other when we had burn consults in the ED. She was a classmate, a colleague, a friend. How do you take that? What do you do?

I should know how to cope, to deal, right? I mean, I've dealt with death and dying at work...on so many occasions, too many to count. There comes a point where you sometimes become 'numb' to situations in order to deal. Have had some close family members & friends pass. My father is much older than most fathers...I've seen many pass on. I planned my first funeral at the age of 20, my grandmother's.

I've learned this week, that yes, we may become numb to situations in our lives, but we still must consider what we're going through. We can't allow the stress and emotions to build to a point of breakdown. However, I'll be the first to admit that I neglect my emotional and mental needs. Because, that's who I am...I'm a nurse, I'm a giver. I tend to the needs of others...

You just never know what life will bring you...You just never know when your time on earth is done. So be grateful for what you have...those around you. Because you just never know...

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2008-03-17T18:00:00.000-05:00

May the lilt of lush laughter lighten ever road,
May the midst of Irish magic shorten every road.
May you taste the sweetest pleasures
that fortune ever bestowed,
And may all your friends remember
all the favors you are owed.

There are good ships, and there are wood ships,
the ships that sail the sea.
But the best ships are friendships,
and may the always be.

May you never forget what is worth remembering or remember what is best forgotten.

Dance as if no one were watching,
Sing as if no one were listening,
And live every day as if it were your last.

Quote of the day

2008-03-14T20:30:00.000-05:00

"A person will sometimes devote all of his life to the development of one part of his body - the wishbone."
~Robert Frost

Happiness...

2008-03-06T21:30:00.000-06:00

Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable or happy & strong. The amount of work is the same.

Do we expect too much from others?

2008-03-05T12:00:00.000-06:00

"Life is under no obligation to give us what we expect."
~Margaret Mitchell

"Oft expectation fails, and most oft there
Where most it promises; and oft it hits
Where hope is coldest, and despair most fits."
-William Shakespeare,
All's Well That Ends
Well (II, i, 145-147)

Vanderbilt LifeFlight. My colleagues, my friends, and my dream.

2008-03-01T14:00:00.000-06:00

Meningitis, Pertussis & Influenza

2008-02-21T12:30:00.000-06:00

How many people do you know that have been potentially exposed to Meningitis, Pertussis, & Influenza within an 18 hour period? (The only one, other than co-workers, I know would be Dr. Ward).

1. Sad story. @ 0426, we got a call from NFD saying they had a CPR in progress. We got our team together and waited. I was the primary/scribe nurse, documenting the case. I was approximately 5 feet away from the patient at any given moment. Unfortunately, the child didn't make it. What a way to end your shift?! I got home, went to bed. Received a call from Occupational Health informing me that I was potentially exposed to meningitis and I needed to come by. The next morning, I did go to Occupational Health, for them to tell me that I didn't needed to take the Cipro, because I was a good distance away from the patient.

2. I can't recall how old the child was, but he was less than 6 months old. I'm thinking around 3 months or so. Anyway, I got report on the child that he has been having a cough for about 2 weeks and having choking spells. (I wasn't informed that he was a rule out PERTUSSIS)! So, I got in to assess the patient and do my thing. Come out, and Mark, the attending, tells me that he's a rule out pertussis. Great, my night is getting better! (I mean, all I wanted was to be in triage, that's it. Hardly anyone wants to be in triage, and I even offered. Mark said that Veronica and I couldn't be triage. My thoughts were, so when did Mark--one of our attendings--get to decided nursing assignments? Oh well). Now, I start wearing my mask when entering the room. Trisha, one of the nurses, is married to a physician who's involved in the Pertussis study at VCH. And she calls to tell on me! Haha!

3. Another patient of mine had the flu! Didn't hear this till after I'd had been all in the room, with the patient, too!

Having all said this, I was called today to inform me that patient #2 results came back positive for pertussis. Now, I have to drive to Vanderbilt in the morning and meet with the lady at 8am. She will draw my blood and take a nasal swab to test me!

Then I go back to work that night at 7pm...but at least it's only til 3am! :)

Typical Tuesday night...

2008-02-20T17:30:00.000-06:00

20 patients in the waiting room, not triage. I won't even tell you how long some had been waiting.
2 helicopters trying to land at VCH when we only have ONE helipad.
3 children from the same MVC with hippie names.
Shovelling two slices of pizza in your mouth, because you won't get to eat any other time during your shift.
PCPs sending stupid stuff to us.
Back to back EMSs from outside hospitals.
3 admissions histories, assessments.
Cohorting siblings in C1(2 of the 3 children from the MVC).
25 admissions in the ED waiting for beds.
Plus, it was my Dad's birthday!

Thank goodness I'm not working tonight! :) However, I did pick up extra on Friday.

Trail of Tornadoes

2008-02-07T10:15:00.000-06:00

First and foremost, my heard and prayers go to those who were directly affected by the tornadoes. Somehow, someway, we were all indirectly affected by this.

It was definitely a chaotic night at Vanderbilt. Going between Yellow Alert (standby) & Orange Alert (activate emergency preparedness) didn't help the families and staff members. We had to move families and patients away from the waiting room (glassed in rooms). We weren't allowed to let families and patients leave until it had been downgraded to a Yellow Alert. Even then, the winds were high and the rain was so hard.

We got a few children throughout the night, but they were all okay. The Adult ED got slammed with 20 level one traumas.

Thank you to all of the medical staff taking care of these individuals. Thank you for the medical teams out in the field doing search and rescue, putting in those long 18-20 hour days/nights. Thank you to those volunteering, contributing to the cause, whether it be physically or financially.

Having a blonde moment...

2008-01-24T12:20:00.000-06:00

No, I'm not having a silly moment. I'm tired of my hair, so what's new? Had some blonde highlights put in it yesterday. Can't quite tell in the photo. It's enough for me to keep me happy for awhile! Of course, I would like have liked more, but bleach is so hard on your hair, that I have many months to get to where I want to be again! Attached below (July 2004) is 'blondest' I've ever been, and I absolutely loved it. I know several of you have seen the difference between my driver's license and bank card! :)Going to attach another one...from October(before the braces came off). My wonder stylist, best friend, Kim can do anything with my hair and make it look great. I enjoyed the curly hair! :)

Quotes...

2008-01-24T00:00:00.000-06:00

Some quotes I've come across...

"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Let thy words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2

"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort." ~Herm Albright (1876-1944)

"Our real blessings often appear to us in the shape of pains, losses, and disappointments, but let us have patience and we shall soon see them in their proper figures." ~Joseph Addison

"The best proof of love is trust." ~ Joyce Brothers

"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on." ~Robert Frost

Post-Op day 1

2008-01-18T15:15:00.000-06:00

Hello to all! I would like to say thank you for all of your thoughts & prayers. They're greatly appreciated! :)

I must say that I'm doing much better than the last surgery (three years ago). However, I am a little more sore today than yesterday.

I'm going to attach three pictures...

This is my inferior turbinate.

The inferior turbinates are the largest turbinates, and can be as long as the index finger, and are responsible for the majority of airflow direction, humidification, heating, and filtering of air inhaled through the nose.
So, basically, they reduced (by liposuction) my inferior and middle turbinates, because they were so inflamed and hypertrophic(BIG).

This is a mucus cyst that was located in my left sphenoid sinus, which per the MD, was causing my sinus infections.

They also did a left sphenoidectomy to open up the airflow to that sinus cavity.

This is an amazing picture of me with my drip pad! :)

Don't laugh! Hehe. It's ok...I will!

The day before the knife...

2008-01-16T10:45:00.000-06:00

Let me start off by saying, the next time I say that I can do four nights in a row (especially leading up to surgery, which I hope not to have again, at least sinus surgery), please convince me otherwise!

Had a good Saturday and Sunday at work. We actually had beds to place our admitted patients. I didn't sleep much on Monday, because the furniture store came to the house at 3pm to deliver my new TV stand! It's so pretty...I love it! (Going to buy a TV today)!

Go to work Monday night, tired...it was a good night. A little busy, steady at first. Nothing exciting happened. However, I seem like intubating (placing a tube into your lungs) little babies that don't want to breathe. I mean, come on...why don't you want to breathe?! Hehe. I say this because I've had three to do this recently (10 day old, 19 day old, 57 day old). And of course, this happens at shift change. Being the good nurse I am, I stayed throughout the procedure and waited for our critical care consult. The coolest thing of all, I stuck my first scalp vein! Meaning, I placed an IV my baby's scalp! I know you're thinking, "Oh my, that's horrible!" I enjoyed the pleasure of knowing I got it! :)

I slept really well yesterday (Tuesday). I was able to leave this morning (Wednesday) at 3am. I've slept from 5a-8a. And for some stupid reason, I'm awake...typing this blog! Haha.

Tomorrow is my surgery. Scheduled for 0730. Mean, I have to leave the house around 5:15am, to be there by 6am. Depending on how good or bad I look post-op is whether or not I'll post pictures! Hehe.

Thanks for reading...have a great day! :)

You know you're a nurse if...

2008-01-12T10:30:00.000-06:00

Every once in a while, I'll get an email titled, "You know you're a nurse if..." So, I thought I'd post some of the ones I found amusing!

You know you're a nurse if...

your sense of humor seems to get more "warped" each year.
you can only tell time with a 24 hour clock
you have wolfed down a sandwich while emptying your bladder.
most everything can seen humorous...eventually.
every time you walk you make a rattling noise because of all the scissors and clamps in your pockets.
you've been telling stories in a restaurant and had someone at another table throw up.
every time someone asks you for a pen, you can find at least three of them on you.
you can intubate your friends at parties.
you don't get excited about blood loss-unless it's your own.
you ever told a confused patient your name was that of your co-worker and to call if they need help.
eating microwave popcorn out a clean bedpan (or emesis basin) is perfectly natural.
you've sworn to have "do not resuscitate" tattooed on your chest.
the front of your scrubs reads "Nurses... here to save your butt, not kiss it!"
you recognize that you can't cure stupid.
you wash your hands BEFORE you go to the bathroom.
you've placed a bet on someone's blood alcohol level.
your idea of fine dining is anywhere you can sit down to eat.
you believe that "shallow gene pool" should be a recognized diagnosis.
you believe that the government should require permits to reproduce (ABSOLUTELY)!
you believe that unspeakable evils will befall anyone who utters the phrase "Wow, it's really quiet, isn't it?"
you have ever had a patient look you straight in the eye and say "I have no idea how that got stuck in there." ("Spiderman did it")!
you have ever had to leave a patient's room before you begin to laugh uncontrollably.

Just wanted to say thanks to all of those who have listened to my stories! :)

A time to reflect

2008-01-04T22:00:00.000-06:00

Another new year is here and as usual it calls us to spend some time in reflection. The pages of a fresh calendar urge us to look at life in four different directions...backward, forward, inward, and outward. Not only do we need to put into perspective the events of yesterday, we need to ponder what unfolds today and glance with anticipation down the road of tomorrow.

First, a look backward. No doubt you had some disappointments in the year just ended which still haunt your memory. But hopefully, you learned valuable lessons and gained important insights. And hopefully too, you enjoyed some pleasant moments which continue to cheer your heart.

Second, a look forward. This doesn't mean you should be apprehensive about the year that lies ahead, afraid of what might happen. You need not fear the future for God is already there. So develop a set of goals, put a plan into action, and pursue your dreams. Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 29:18...without a vision, the people perish.

Third, look inward. This direction beckons you to get in touch with the real person you are. You must take off the shroud hiding your inner self and put on the clothes of honesty and sincerity. You can't be true to others if you're not true to yourself.

And fourth, a new year calls you to look upward to rejoice in the majesty of God and to develop the habit of beginning each morning with a song of praise and ending each evening with a prayer of thanks.

Four directions ==> Backward, forward, inward, upward. My friend, why not pause right now and take a reflective look. If you do, you will be more than prepared to turn the calendar pages over and make the year 2008 the best year ever.

Goals for 2008...

2008-01-02T10:00:00.000-06:00

Yes, every year I make goals for myself, as oppose to resolutions, because I'm very much a goal-oriented person.

Here are a few goals that I've made for myself for 2008:

1. To become more of an observer, rather than stating my thoughts...
2. Lose weight, 2008. (I stole that from my friend, LeeAnna, but I do have several weddings to be part of and go to this year).
3. To learn Spanish. I mean, there's no way around it. I just have to do it! (Any suggestions would be appreciative)! :)
4. To expand my nursing knowledge, meaning I would like to have a find a new, challenging job in the next 6 months or so.
5. Learn to play my violin.

I think these five will keep me busy for 2008!

Wishing you and those you love a wonderful and amazing year! :)