Dear Boys: 25th Anniversary!

25 Dear Boys/Girls posts on this blog!  Wowie!

YEAH for Wednesdays!

LOVE LOVE LOVE Miss Elise-y
Check her OOWWWWT!



dear birdie boyannnnnnnnyyyyy time now!  not to be impatient or anythinglovea girl lacking the virtue of patience
dear birdie boyi think its cause of my extreme awkwardnessOH WELL whateveslovegirl who has decided not to care anymore
dear jason mraz"Maybe I annoy you with my choices Well, you annoy me sometimes too with your voice"Best line in a love song EVERlovean appreciative girl
dear mister fly under the radarthere is flying under the radar and totally disappearingnot cool dude.  3 weeks of wasted perfect outfits..you missed out!lovegirl who is going to look nasty next week cause she is giving up!

dear call me maybe

SERIOUSLY??  i moved you out of my head like a month ago.

don't expect anything cause i'm so over it!

love

girl who deleted you from her phone

dear leech

i don't want to be mean.  you don't mean to latch on and never let go.  its really not your fault.

but i can't do it this time.  so here is hoping you either don't...or i figure out a good remedy

love

girl would wants to be kind but also free

dear boys

as we often say in dear boys land.....we complain about ya'll lots...

but that doesn't mean we don't love and appreciate you!

love

girl who couldn't get by without you!


Be Happy...Be Healthy

An Apology...and Addictions/Aversions

Oh blog readers!

I am such a terrible blogger right now!!!!
(and by right now I mean for like the past MONTH!!!!)

This new chapter of my life has brought some very unexpected...things???

I know terribly vague.  But things is the best way to describe them---obstacles, events, circumstances ya know the drill.

Though I have tons of time, I have no time at all.
Although time is really not the reason for my neglect--a lack of stuff to write about!
I'm just boring and lame!
Sometimes I wonder if I should ask the universe for something exciting.  But then I think better of it cause that something would probably be bad exciting not good exciting1

Anyway I promise to be more present!
And I will start with a fun little addition of
ADDICTIONS AND AVERSIONS!!!!!

Addicted to:
USA network shows
(HELLO awesomeness...suspense with a touch of drama and intrigue, throw in some romance and relative cleanliness and you have one addicted Mormon girl)
Hummus and pretzel chips
(Need I say more...)
Taking naps
(I could never do that in nursing school and now I throw in 30 minutes here and 30 minutes there all day long!)
Media (movies, books, tv shows, commercials, songs) that make me cry
(disclaimer...I do not seek these out...they have just been popping up  A LOT lately so I wonder if I am subconsciously addicted) 
Checking my phone, FB and email every 30 seconds in case something changed
(In my defense I am waiting for things...things that DONT WANT TO COME!!)

Aversions to:
The Muscloskeletal System
(seriously i don't know why i just dont like it!)
The correct answer
(I am in the practice quiz phase of my studying and I can usually narrow it down to two...and it is far to frequently the one i didn't pick..DARN IT!)


What are you Addictions and Aversions lately?

Be Happy...Be Healthy 

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions.......

I got a job offer Friday morning.

You are probably scratching your scalp, because this Swilly Girl would normally follow that sentence with thousands of  these.....   !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(sorry Writer Friend......I know you despise it when I use up all the exclamation points in the world haha)

And I'm not saying I'm not happy about it.  Its nice to know that I have a great job opportunity.
I like the floor, I like the manager, I like the patient population, I like how it would set me up for a great career.
It would mean living in the comfort of the house I grew up in...rent free (ish...I will prolly chip in for stuff).
Also St Louis is a really fun great town!

But I just don't love whole situation.  It isn't the perfect set of circumstances...so I'm just a tad disappointed.

Which leads me to the need to make some decisions.

My heart is not with this job.
Part of my heart is in Utah....with all the amazing friends I left there 18 months ago.  When I left I always pictured myself going back...even if I denied it or didn't say it out loud.  Lets be honest...I did!
The other part of my heart is in pediatrics.  This job is an adult floor.  Its hard to break into peds right away, but there are a few opportunities that I am waiting to hear back about.


The other options are not particularly promising...so I guess I don't really have much of a decision to make....

But I don't want to make that choice.
My social life is kind of a question mark here in StL.  We have a small YSA branch, and many of them are people I knew growing up.  And quite honestly I'm just not sure how it will work out......
And its not in peds.....its not where I expected I would be.....
So I am just feeling a little stuck

Here's hoping I can figure it all out!

Be Happy...Be Healthy 

Weapons of Mass Destruction

Many moons ago a good friend gave me some great advice.  I was bored and like many girls was sure that a boy would spice up my life a bit.  (Maturity has brought me the realization that this is generally not the case....so now I change my hair...)  ANYWAY...flirting at the time was probably not a good choice...and this friend advised me to "Put it away!"

When I told my sister this story...she replied "Its like weapons of mass destruction!"

And she is right! Flirting can be VERY powerful....

Flirting is all about getting someone's attention.
The key to getting someone's attention is to do something out of the norm.  Something unexpected.

This is going to sound terrible, but truly successful flirting preys on the weakness of your "target".
Guys do it, girls do it.  Each side has some general weaknesses, each person has some individual ones too.

Its exploitative...of course.  But not in a bad way.  If feelings and crushes were not involved, successful flirting would not look like it does in a singles ward, but more akin to what you see in a fancy-shmansy spy film.  Covert ops for SURE!
But because feelings are involved intentions are (generally;exceptions made for those smooth talkers) pure.

Now that your knickers are all knotted, and your panties all twisted...let me give a few examples.

Lets talk about tricks of the trade--
1. Perfumed hair toss.
        first off...not normal!  Seriously, whiplash is rarely desirable!  so it gets both the out of the ordinary and unexpected check and check.  Then you add the weakness in.  Humans in general have a natural propensity for smells.  Throw in a little operant conditioning and every time he smells it...he thinks of you.  Plus the flipping is a total peacocking move...CLASSIC

2. The elbow grab
     OBVIOUSLY out of the norm!  Crossing the touch barrier...and in an unusual place.  Seriously if flirting tools were weapons, this one would be a solid MAC-10.  Now I am less versed on what weakness it hits-cause honestly I have no clue.  But EVERY guy I've ever asked about it....says it gets their attention BIG TIME

3. The cross the room eye contact, coy smile, look away
     If the elbow grab is a MAC-10......this one is dynamite with some nitroglycerin..."make a nice BOOM".  This one you have to be very cautious about.  Save it only for special occasions.  Who makes and holds eye contact and then looks away???not expected...not socially acceptable in most circles.  Now the weakness??  Humans are naturally curious.  The look away is the key.  Gets them wondering.

So now that you have a terrible impression of me....I will end.
Just something to think about.....
And something for all my married readers to respond with "Thank goodness I am done with that!"

Be Happy...Be Healthy

Everything's Ok

I just found this song...thanks Pandora!!!!

Fun and comforting...dance it out....with a little hop step :)

Be Happy...Be Healthy

AHHHHHH

Bloggy people...may I have a moment?????



AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

BLLLLLLLLLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH


Thank you.

I have been studying for hours for my board exam...AKA the dreaded NCLEX
I finally got my ATT (authorization to test from the state board) the other day.
Until that point I couldn't schedule my test.
So Sept 4th at 1:00 PM I will be taking the MOST IMPORTANT (and most stressful....and most painful...) test of MY LIFE

(to you nurses out there....you know I am not being dramatic!  haha)

I could probably pass the test right now.  I passed nursing school--and passed the 2 practice tests we took.

But I DO NOT want to be sitting there at the computer thinking "DANG I wish I had studied"

And so I am studying.  I have been making a weak effort since graduation.  But this week it has been thrown into overdrive.  Deadlines will do that for you!!!

Last night it was all about the lungs....and the immune system
Today the heart (which is becoming less my favorite the longer I study hahaha) and hopefully (if I can stand it) the kidneys.  The plan had been to punch out the nervous system too, but don't think that will happen.

There is always tomorrow!!!!

Two weeks ago I babysat on a Friday night for the cutest little 16 month old.
After she went to bed I spent roughly 3 hours studying.
Tomorrow night I am driving my sister to a choir opening social, and plan to just wait for her and study.

So lets recap.......
Nursing school grad STILL doesn't have free Friday nights!
Nursing school grad STILL spends much of her day studying!
Nursing school grad STILL feels guilty when she takes a break (cause I really should be studying not watching this movie!)

Oh well...it'll all pay off right????

Rant over ;)  thanks for "listening"


Be Happy...Be Healthy

Since Its Sunday.... Families

Maybe I am thinking a lot about families today because I have a brother out on a mission...and my sister who lives in Utah called me just a couple of days ago...and my younger sister is leaving for college tomorrow...and me and my youngest sister are going to be kicking it alone this next week while the 'rents are travelling.

But I am thinking about families a lot today.

I was on heightened alert today at church.
I attend the congregation my family has been in since I was 8 1/2 years old.  Its changed quite a bit since then-and recently there have been  A LOT of new families move in....with TONS of children!

And I noticed a lot of them today.  Not any of them individually, but them together.

Today I watched a dad bless his little son.

I watched an older brother give is suit coat to his younger sister because she was cold
(they were probably 10 and 8!!!!).

I watched an 11 year old boy hold his youngest brother (9ish months) making faces and quietly entertaining him.


I had to hold back tears as I thought of my own brother who would totally give me his jacket if I was cold and he was here.
I thought of how close my sisters and I are.  And how close they are to each other.

And though I was thinking a lot about my current family, I couldn't help but thinking about my future family too.

(yes everyone...I did just mention my future family, you have permission to be shocked for a moment but then you must get over yourself!)

I'm excited for the prospect of having my own family (again don't anyone have a cow....excitement does not mean is will happen tomorrow)

I think what I am most excited about is getting to watch my children be close to each other like me and my siblings are.

The stereotypical family is so often portrayed is crazy and chaotic, with kids only interacting to fight.
But that wasn't my experience at all.

Don't get me wrong...we fought just as much as any family, but we also were each other's best friends.
And all these family's I saw today were very similar to us.

I'm glad that I get to be with my family for eternity. We will always be together.  And I am so happy that some day I will get to add to that family with my own children.

So I'm excited---not in any hurry---but still excited :)

PS..... even MORE excited for my little ones to play with all these ones little ones.  Its is going to be the BEST of the BEST!!!!!!

Check out sweet Shaylee and Courtney and their Since its Sunday linky party!!! 

If you would like to know more about my beliefs in regards to forever families-please feel free to visit this linkhttp://mormon.org/family or ask me any questions viz the comments section!
Be Happy...Be Healthy

I'm Bringing Scrunchies Back!!!

Yes Ladies and Gents....

"I'm bringing scrunchies back (Yeah!)"

(please picture a slightly questionable dance that goes along with this song...followed by concerned looks from my mother, hysterics from my sisters and rolled eyes from my father tee hehe)

YEAH Scrunchies!!!  Why did these go out again?  They are PARFAIT for top knots!!!!

Today was a chill out Saturday...

It was a tank top, sweatershirt, yoga pants hair on top of head day...

A rearranging of my room day  (pics once it is fully completed....only step one today)....

A run errands day....

Wanna hear the playlist that has accompanied me all day??????

Since I have finished nursing school I have become obsessed with a few artists...I liked them before...now I am NUTTY about them AKA...Eric Hutchinson...Jason Mraz...Joshua Radin....Parachute.......and a few more So enjoy a boys mix today  :)  Be Happy...Be Healthy

JuJu

Ever heard of it??

(skip to 3:30 for a complete explanation!) Never mess with the juju!!!!!! Long story short-I'm going to be drinking hot cocoa all day tomorrow. Oh you want the story?  Ok fine ;) Remember how I mentioned new grad programs the other day? And how hard its been for me to find a job? Well yesterday I had my first in person, nurse manager interview (usually you meet and talk with the recruiter and if they like you they pass your name along to the managers who do the actual hiring). I liked the floor.  Liked the feel and flow of it. Like the people I met and the philosophy they seem to have. Its here in St Louis (like a 15 minute commute!) which brings with it all the perks of staying here in StL. Plus the fact that I have a serious shot at getting an offer---for sure makes me like it a little bit more :) The job hunt for me though is never really over.  I am constantly checking websites looking for jobs to apply for.  That evening, despite my interview, was no different. There is an EXTREMELY competitive program in Washington DC at National Children's Medical Center.  I have applied for spots when they have appeared on the website-but not many have, and I have been unsuccessful thus far. But last night, a new opportunity appeared!  I had sort of stopped checking, because not only was there not any appearing, but it appeared like I wasn't very competitive, since I had not gotten past the application process before. But for some reason tonight I did!!! So...I'm applying this morning.  Since I last applied I have strengthened my resume and perfected my cover letter, so maybe I'll have a better shot. But if I was to be completely honest, though I hope hope hope it will work out....I'm pretty sure it will not.  That's ok of course....what is supposed to happen will happen.  But at the same time-man wouldn't it be great! And so...I need good juju! Good juju to get a job offer even if it is just as a back-up... AND good juju that I can get an interview with NCMC..... So drink some hot cocoa for me?????  Be Happy...Be Healthy

The Eye Twitch

Sounds ominous doesn't it???

So roughly 10ish days ago, I started noticing a twitching of my lower right eyelid.
Nothing too big of deal.  Its happened infrequently at other times in my life.  Generally late at night, when I am tired and heading to bed already.  Its always gone in the morning.

The initial twitching began while I was particularly stressed and reading a lot of little/messy handwritten shot records (service project helping foreign refugees get ready for school to start).

It continued throughout the day...slight annoyance, but I figured it would go away once I slept.

But the next day it didn't stop.  And the next day it didn't either.  It would happen a dozen or so times an hour, and doesn't hinder me at all---just drives me "ABSOLUTELY BONKERS!"  (name that movie!)

Being a nurse and all I wracked my brain to figure out the cause.
Electrolyte imbalance, fatigue, stress,  eye strain???????
I didn't study eye twitching in school, but those were the only things I could think of.

I'm not anymore stressed than other times (in fact less than before haha).  I have been sleeping fairly well (trying to maintain good sleep hygiene in case some hospital calls and says can you start tomorrow!).  I couldn't place any extra reason for continued eye strain (no headaches, no vision troubles in general).  And I made sure I got back on my multivitamin (I eat better at home than at school so I hadn't been taking it)

Nothing seemed to change it!  And now we are here...10ish days later still a-twitching!
Last night I figured it had to be not so grand that it was going on for so long...so I did what every health-issue ridden person does these days....GOOGLE!!!
Like I said, we didn't study eye twitching in school, so maybe there was something I was missing.

I found this site: http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/eye-twitching.htm
(scroll down a little to see an awesome (and by awesome I mean very accurate) animation of what my eye is doing)
It adds a couple more reasons to mine (wahoo for critical thinking skills...yes this new grad figured it out all by her onesie!)
But they don't work for me either!

But the beginning does say that it could last weeks to even a month-so I guess we just wait :)


I don't know why I told you this story of my Wanky Eye (that is what I have been calling it!)
But it has become a pretty large part of my boring life so......
hehehe


Be Happy...Be Healthy

ok...Am I Crazy???

I mean I know most people who read this blog have already determined that this is a fact.

But there is a new reason for me to be potentially crazy.

First some background :)
I am a new nursing graduate.  This means that my job possibilities are limited.  Most places would prefer to hire me in a year-but someone has to give me my first year!
To facilitate this many hospitals have "New Graduate Residency" programs.  They vary in time and consist of orientations with a preceptor as well as skills training and in class learning.
They also vary in the times that they start..  Most start January and June.  This leaves me in a rough spot given my graduation time.  But some do start is September.  And these are the ones I try to grab!

Most hospitals only accept  new grad applications for med/surg floors (general adult floors).  Children's hospitals obviously do not.  Since I want to go into pediatrics, these are the hospitals I want to jump on most. However, they are limited.

But unfortunately, all of my options in this area are pretty much exhausted.
So I am likely going to have to settle.  I like Adult Med/Surg, but I love pediatrics.

HOWEVER...
There is a pediatric position available...in Alaska.

I fell upon it accidentaly.  But now I am seriously considering it!
I've applied (I figure I can always turn them down)

I've spent the afternoon researching living in Anchorage Alaska.  And guess what.  I WANT TO MOVE THERE!!!!!!!!
Wanna see why??

Want more proof....check out this photographer's pictures!
http://susanstevenson.com/blog/

I could learn to cross country ski....and ride on a snowmobile for the first time.
I could see a bear...or a moose...or a wolf....pick berries and ice fish
Witness beautiful vistas and potentially have very good odds ;)
There are MANY glorious benefits in my mind.

BUT there would be drawbacks....and that is why I wonder....am I crazy???


Be Happy...Be Healthy 

Addictions and Aversions 1.0

I know/hope I have a few new readers/followers in recent days So-who is this Swilly Girl you ask??

Aversions to:
Sushi
Spiders
Snakes
Intolerant people
Wasting money
Heights (or more accurately falling from heights)
Bananas and most especially banana peels
Nicki Minaj (but I like her songs....but only when other people sing them)
Germs

Addictions to
Blogging
"Information gathering via various web-based means" (aka FB/blog stalking hehe)
Divine Comedy and almost all things BYU
The Bachelor and Bachelorette
Pinterest
Wedding Planning
Any version of S'mores

what about you????


Be Happy...Be Healthy

TWBMH-The GREAT Wardie Boys

Since not much is going on so I am gonna pick up on an old series I did a while back.....
To check out old ones...Click HERE


There are probably a few boys who I will talk about in this post that would be terrified to know I was writing about them!  Not terrified in a bad way-in an "I'm so embarrassed" sort of way.

Most of the posts I have written in this series have been centered on guys I liked, or guys who liked me.

This post is a little different.  This post is about the boys I loved in the best ward I have ever been in.
There were a few that things happened with (there are some I've written about in fact)
But there were even more that TOTALLY changed me.  Restored my faith in a gender that had let me down quite a bit up to this point!

Most of these guys I haven't heard from or even talked to in over a year.  But I've stayed in touch with a few...and some of these recent interactions have really taken me back.

They have taken me back and reminded me of so many wonderful memories.  So many great talks.  So many laughs and smiles and adventures.

These are the boys who have made me so picky.  I used to say "Oh I'm not that picky"  Nope....I am!
Thanks boys!!!!


Home Teacher
       He taught me the importance of small and simple acts of service.  He was always there with a plate of cookies or a little note on my door when he knew I needed it

Big Teddy Bear
        What can I even say about this kid???  He took a little time to get to know.  I honestly would never have thought when we first met that I would sit here grinning from ear to ear saying "Gosh I LOVE that kid!" But he is honestly one of the most kind people I know-once he lets you in.  I feel so honored that he did, not only because it is such a rare thing, but also because it allowed me to see so many other sides of him.  He taught me the importance of letting people know that you care...not just with actions, but with words too.  They say actions speak louder than words, but that doesn't mean that words don't carry anything at all.

SuperFan
        Oh man---this guy made me laugh all the time.  One time the two of us had this whole elaborate plan to drive to Vegas at 9:00 at night ......to watch our Cougars play BBall in the tournament down there.  He was spontaneous and crazy and fun.  He was never serious and never not cracking jokes or smiles.  But he was a good kid.  He never let his attitude towards life stop him from achieving his goals and fulfilling his responsibilities.  Everytime a techno song pops up on my Pandora-I think of him and dance it out just like he would (in private though...cause he is the ONLY one who could pull those moves off in public hehe)

Newsie
       This guy is the ULTIMATE kind person.  I don't think he has ever been mad.  I don't think he has ever said anything mean about anyone!  He was the hometeacher everyone fought over-the one you were jealous of other girls for having.  He introduced me to Marcel the Shell- and there really is not much to say after that :) He treated every person like they were his family and he cared about them.

Gangsta
       Full of surprises!  You thought you had an idea of him, but you were wrong :)  He saved my BUTT at least twice.  He was flexible and rolled with the punches.  And he gave me one of the greatest compliments anyone has ever given me-he asked me (out of a dozen AMAZING singers in the ward) to sing with him.  It was an awesome experience that I am so grateful for!

Teacher
      This guy was the sweetest!  Always had a smile and always bent over backwards to help people and make peoples lives more fun :)  He taught a Sunday School class I was in-and it really changed the way I thought about things...at the time and now!  I actually just found some notes I took from the class...I can't wait to go through them and rediscover things I thought and comments made by other class members!

Peter Priesthood
       But in a good way!  Usually this means that the guy is not someone you want to be around.  But this guy...he was a great great great kind guy.  Such a spiritual giant!!!!

Library buddy
       This guy wanted to change the world!  Inspirational for sure....even more fun to hang out with.  He taught me how to have fun.  There is a whole world of crazy silly fun to be had out there......  He also taught me the fool-proof skill of the "elbow grab"

Mr Responsible
      Seriously someone needs to marry this guy!!!!!  I have NEVER seen a guy fulfill his calling (volunteer positions in our church) better than this guy.  Kind and CRAZY responsible.  Ladies....he's going to medical school....Let me know if you want a hook up!

Great Hugger
      Best hugs in the WORLD!  For reals.  And he knew when people needed them to.  And he gave them willingly.  In tune with others needs....not bad my friends...not bad!

The Whole Apartment on the Ground
      The guys who were there through thick and thin.  Through my years here the residents changed but the attitude didn't.  They made us smile when we were blue-gave us hugs-gave us blessings.  They were the hot spot to go.  The place where you knew there would always be something hoppin.


There are so many more I could talk about. But lets just leave it at this.
There were a whole lot of guys who went through that ward in the years I lived there.
Many I was able to get close with...and those I was able to get to know changed my life!
They raised the bar that is for sure!

Good luck clearing it future boys   ;)

Be Happy...Be Healthy

Nightmares....and Freaking Out

Dreams are weird.  I've said this before.
This afternoon I took a nap.

And instead of waking up refreshed as I should have or groggy as I usually do....I woke up disturbed...and with a headache.
Not cool!

It was a very disturbing dream.  A nightmare of sorts.  Not the type of dream that leaves you scared.  But the kind that leaves you upset-twisty insides upset.

The beginning of the dream was a version (nothing like the real thing in situation) of a terrible interaction that happened 5ish years ago.  Then suddenly I was in a different season (summer to Christmas) at a fancy party with people from the ward (and Tim McGraw what the what!), in a place I don't recognize and was making choices that were not advisable.

In the dream I was upset because of the interaction and then stressed about the poor choices.  And I woke up feeling the same-upset and stressed.  Plus afternoon nap groggy-ness.
Basically it was no bueno.


I've written before about dreams  and my theories on why dreams are sometimes so weird.
But there is one that I didn't touch on.  One that this dream causes me to worry about.

Some people say dreams are the manifestations of our true desires.  Our true selves.
The end of this dream I made some really bad decisions.  Not just ill-advised-but bad bad choices.

Does this mean that I deep down want to make these choices?  Is this my true self??

So I really want to know what you all think.  Let me know!  Cause I am freaking out just a little........


Be Happy...Be Healthy

Since Its Sunday.... Missionaries

Check out Courtney and Shaylee!

So some of you may know I'm waiting for a missionary right now....
this handsome dude-

Boys everywhere should be warned that no marriages will happen before this one gets home...so just don't even TRY!   tehehe

Its been one year since this guy left and that means we have one year to go.

I am so happy and so proud of him-but at the same time can't wait for the kiddo to get his rear-end back in this hemisphere!!!  (He is in Cape Coast, Ghana PS)

But since he has been gone, I have been lucky enough to serve my own little mini-mission.  It of course was worked around school and work and other various activities.  But I feel like it has been a mini-mission nonetheless.

While up in CoMO, I often went out with the missionaries in that area.

It was fun to be able to meet the people who were investigating the church and even more special when I was able to be the person they sat with at church and hung out with at activities.

I think that is one of the most important roles of a "member missionary".  Coming to a strange new church where you don't know anyone is SCARY and HARD!  I was glad I got to be a familiar face!

Over the summer with my switch of congregations and INSANE schedule, I was not able to go to appointments with the missionaries.

I was not able (in the same way) to bear my testimony of the truth or help someone understand beautiful and life altering doctrines.  I was not able to feel the specific type of spirit that is only present when a 19 year old boy with a black name tag tells the Joseph Smith story.  I was not able to watch lives change the way I had.

But now I am home.  And I do nothing all day but occasionally study for my boards apply for jobs and watch the Olympics.

So when the sister missionaries assigned to my ward texted me asking if I could go with them to an appointment I didn't even hesitate.  And I made sure they knew that they should call me--all the time!

(They are in a group of three so exciting tale I might even go on exchanges-or me going with one while the other two go to another appointment!)

Point is-I realized how much I missed it!

So glad I get to get back to it!!!!!!

OLLO New Bloggy Friends!

And old Bloggy Friends too of course!!!

I am over at Courtney's Thoughts From the Birdhouse today.

Its such an honor to be able to guest for her and I hope you all will check it out!

I also hope any of my new friends will stick around for a little while :)

Best places to get started here in my Swilly World are  HERE   and   HERE

AND don't forget to follow over there  (pretend I am smiling and pointing at the left part of your screen hehe)
And comment and react and all that jazzy jazz.  I love love love it!



Also shout out to my AWESOME Mommy whose birthday is today :)  Best mommy in the WHOLE WIDE WORLD!  I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE her!

Be Happy...Be Healthy

The Time I Was a Patient Linky Party

So ever since I became a graduate nurse..I am OBSESSED with nursing (ask my family...its practically all I ever talk about!) (I need a JOB!!!  I NEED PATIENTS!!!  Then I can put my energy and obsession to use and stop bugging people!)

ANYWAY!

I recently discovered a few nursing blogs....LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE
There is a sisterhood in the nursing community (I believe other professions have the same deal....the only people who can understand what you do are other people who do it!)
And I love being able to be part of the blogging nursing community.

I had a busy day yesterday so I didn't get a chance to join up with this linky party yesterday---but a day late isn't too bad right????


The time I was a patient the longest was way back when I was 4 years old.  And actually it was an experience that didn't directly push me to be a nurse, but has played a role in the kind of nurse I am.

When I was 4 I was admitted into National Children's Hospital to have surgery on my kidney.  Basically the tube (ureter) that connected my bladder and kidney was not attached correctly.  This lead to build up...and infection and inflammation.  For the first four years of my life I'm pretty sure I rarely went a week without getting a UTI (urinary tract infection)  I took antibiotics like they were candy (trust me they did NOT taste like candy!).  I had a lot of fevers...some getting so high I vomited and had to take medication rectally.
Thank goodness I had a father who held the priesthood and great hometeachers cause I for SURE got dozens of blessings in those 4 years.

(Mormons believe strongly that prayer has healing power, and that men who hold the priesthood, or literally the power of God, can say special prayers that can aid those who need to be healed)

This condition is not uncommon in children.  But most grow out of it.  Its genetic-my brother also had it but he grew out of it.  The way I think of it--once you get a little longer, your "tubes" can stretch out a little more.  But unfortunately for me--mine didn't.

For a while I had periodic tests performed to determine if the frequent infections and inflammation was causing any damage to my kidneys or urinary tract.  I'm not sure what type of tests were performed-but I have VERY vivid memories of the pain associated with them.  They were radiological in nature and the dye they used burned REALLY bad!

When I was four one of the tests showed that damage was beginning to occur.  My nephrologist decided to go ahead and perform the surgery before more damage occurred.  A surgery was scheduled.

I actually have quite a few memories of my 3 days in the hospital.  I remember how cold I was before I went into surgery.  I remember being terrified of the needle they used to do the blood work before the procedure.  I remember the cool toys in the waiting room before I went in.  I remember waking up from the procedure and the nurse/tech/person saying (in what appeared to a scared cold 4 year old very cranky grumpy voice) "She's awake"

I remember the doll I brought.  Her name was Catherine and my grandma had recently given her to me.  She was a more life-like baby than any of my other dolls and she was for sure my favorite.  I made my mom PROMISE to babysit her while I was gone.  After I went under my mom found out she could leave her with me and have her be there when I woke up.  But my mom was worried I would be mad at her for not following my very specific bossy 4 year old instructions so she kept Catherine. Apparently while my parents where waiting in my room for me, a nurse walked by surprised I was back already (my mom was holding Catherine).  She was so life like-the nurse thought it was the patient!

I remember getting wheeled back to my room with the cranky nurse.
I remember the discomfort I felt the entire time, especially walking. (now that I know how important ambulation is...I'm sure I totally drove my nurses nuts by REFUSING to)
I had a crazy annoying roommate "Roommate, roommate are you awake."  My mom always responded 'Go to sleep Bianca"
I remember stories of a very painful night--with a very unhelpful nurse.  And the day nurse coming in and making a big fuss to comfort my mom and me.


My experiences of pain and fear...knowing my mothers feelings and experiences-both have always colored my nursing care of families and patients.
We as nurses always have to be aware of the fear our patients have.  And that it is not just about the patient either.  You've gotta remember the family too.

So thats when I was a patient.  Enjoy and check out Anna and Renee :)

Be Happy...Be Healthy

The One Where We Went and We Went and We Went.....

Till we heard a BANJO!!!!!

(GOTTA LOVE IT!!!!!!!) This happened a couple of weeks ago..but I am FINALLY posting about it!  GOOD GRIEF!!!!! Favorite Quotes Whats out there...trees and trees and trees until you hit Kansas?  That isn't even the way to Kansas! An Arkansasan gave me this advice about beating the heat "Go skinny-dipping" sounds like a plan to me! If any person around us was Mormon...they know we were too...b/c there was definitely phrases like "The Law of Chasity" mentioned (and who says that but us weirdo Mormons)  Favorite Moments Little Big Town Scattering Smothering and Covering Born This Way :)

Harvard dancing to Call Me Maybe with a crowd of 1000s

The little girl brought up to sing Me and My Gang Gary forgetting some of the words to their old songs :) Favorite Pictures

(all the Rascal Flatts ones didn't turn out super good...it was too dark by that time :(  )

Be Happy...Be Healthy

Romance

Maybe I am weird, but I think there are two definitions of this word.

Perhaps its the movie last night, or last night's insomnia leading to Joshua Radin singing me to sleep, or watching Micheal Phelps compete for his last time.  But most likely its the intense summer thunderstorm that is roaring outside right now that is causing me wax poetic.

Most people hear the word romantic and think of
roses
love songs
candlelight dinners
weddings and wedding proposals
kissing in the perfect picturesque setting
grand gestures

But I more often think of
final performances
goodbyes/endings
sunrises/sunsets
boat rides
holding a sleeping baby
sitting on the roof on a cool summer night
watching a thunderstorm or standing in the rain
feeding ducks
swinging on swings
meteor showers
bonfires
Christmas lights
the first snow of the year....or any snow that happens at night
heck...nighttime!
the crisp smell and crunch of leaves in the fall

(you have permission to think I am crazy weird...its alright)


How do you define it???
Are you a more traditional rom-com type.....
or the more obscure 1800s definition?

Be Happy...Be Healthy

A Few Thoughts on Inde Movies

I want to start off with a warning to anyone who has not yet seen the movie "Like Crazy" and wants to.

This post may contain spoilers (not specifics but details that could lead a person who knows movies well to a very clear conclusion)

So Indie Movies...Independent Films...Artsy Movies...

Movies that go to select theaters....movies that win awards at film festivals.

I have a very love/hate relationship with these movies.

Often I start out LOVING the movie and then get really disappointed when it ends "wrong"---(or in the case of last night's movie...not even ending, just STOPPING) leaving me stunned and either speechlessly staring at the screen or shouting things like "NO!  SERIOUSLY?  NO!"

(Side note-my family always knows when I am watching an indie movie....cause there is lots of yelling at the TV! hahaha)

I don't mind a lot of staring, lots of good unknown alternative music, little talking, artsy lighting and shots.

In fact I rather appreciate those.  I appreciate the real conflict.  Not the contrived conflicts of fake engagements and ruined proms.

But I miss the "perfect" endings.  The happily ever afters.  Maybe, despite their lack of realism they give me hope that maybe unrealistic happy endings could be possible.

But indie movies bring me back to reality.  

The guy doesn't always get the girl.

The girl doesn't always forgive the guy for being dumb (and vise versa)

People get sick.  People die.  People grow apart.  People fight and don't make up.

Depressing right?  But then again...relatable.

And not only that but romantic.  Not the hearts and roses romantic.
But the standing in the rain, sitting on the roof on a summer night romantic. (see future post on this idea :) )


So like I said...love/hate.

What do you think??
Yay or nay for indie movies??
What are your faves??
I always take suggestions :)

Its Wednesday...let's write boys!

Its been a while since I've Dear Boys-d
Not much to write about in that arena.  But here are a few hahaha

Enjoy and check out Miss Elise-y

dear el....weirdo
I realize it is utterly ridiculous that I am still fixated on our not encounter encounter yesterday...
But for reals.  Weirdness!  We were never really friends.
But you were asking about me.
And lets not forget the looking my sisters always mention.
WEIRD!!!!!
love
weirded-out

dear ben folds
This isn't the best name for you...but it'll work for now I guess.
I wonder what is going to happen between the two of us these next few weeks.
Could/should be interesting
love
curious girl

dear boy who flies under the radar
Don't be alarmed but you walked into a family ward looking halfway attractive and not sporting a ring...of course I focused my tractor beam on you!  Don't be freaked----I'm just curious about you.  Where have you come from?  Where have you been?  What have you been doing?  HMMMMM  Here's hoping I see you again.
love
a curious girl

dear cool kid
There is NO way that I'm cool enough to even talk to you haha.  You are one of the hipster kids.....I am so not.  Anyway...here's hoping that I'll have the guts to talk to you the next time I see you!
love
the uncool girl


Be Happy...Be Healthy