A Saturday Photo Shoot

The official edited/good shots will come out in a little while.  But for now.....

A few of the fun ones

Special Thanks to Little Sister for helping out!!!!

We played around with props a little....well it didn't work our too well!!

My absolute favorite pose...always!!!

"In progress" shot hahahaha

Sometimes I just have a little too much fun!!!

Silly fun!!!

AND....A Sneak Peek!!!!!

Be Happy Be Healthy Everyone!!!!

High Five For Friday

Lots of Fun Happenings This Week!!!

But guess I can only do 5......



Thanksgiving...pie.....HELLO



Catching Fire Sibling Bonding.....good film....great book...awesome company

(Please excuse this terrible picture!)


Cleaned out my locker/mailbox/said goodbye to my first hospital....bittersweet day


Picked up THIS sister from the AIRPORT....so glad to have her for a bit




NOW what...Black Friday shopping...favorite singer/songwriter over for Thanksgiving dinner.....decorating my future room (moving soon to be closer to new job)...awesome parade watching moments...completed crochet projects????



I can't decide....sorry to break da rules.....

Hope all had a blessed and happy thanksgiving!

So many blessings I don't know where to begin!


Be Happy Be Healthy!!!

Dear Boys

HEY GUYS!!!
Its Wednesday...and so dearest boys in my life....I have a few words.


dear my favorite hott latino
you are so kind!  like seriously you make everyone feel so important when they talk to you.
i am so grateful to have you as a friend.
love
a girl always looking to add to my group


dear best guy friend EVER
thank you for not letting me be lonely.
i love being able to have you always around....no matter what
with all my love
your best friend


dear picky pants
ok honey.....we are going to have to work on this.  its seriously an issue.
i'm gonna make this happen.  you're going to learn i'm
a) very good
b) truly just want to be you friend
love
matchmaker


dear grown up
i'm really proud of you.  its really impressive how you have risen above the mess of it all.
love
impressed


dear almost great
you are a good guy.  for real you are.
if you can just manage to rise above the mess you will be great.  you don't have to be mean to fit in.
love
hopeful

Things You Should Know About: From DC to BC

Hey Guys!   Its Tuesday

Some of you may have seen this..and some of you even know this gal.


May I introduce a childhood friend Sarah Shumway of From DC to BC

This gal is both smart and a talented writer....AKA has a ROCKSTAR blog!

SEVERAL months back she wrote a response to a CNN article regarding young adults and religion.

It spread like WILDFIRE and I meant over and over to write my response as well.
But life became life and it didn't happen.

But the topic is something I don't want to die....so lets bring it up again yes???



(please excuse the novel you are about to read....I will try to be appropriately concise...but y'all know me...NOT my strongest skill!)



Why I Am Staying.

1. Cause everything else is changing....I need the stability!

Everything in my life seems to be changing at WARP speed. New job. New place. NEW NEW NEW

The Church is the only stable thing in my life frankly. No matter where I go there is a congregation for me to attend. A congregation that teaches the same things as every other congregation.

I know I am not the only young single adult (YSA) who has a rapidly changing life. It is a classic characteristic of emerging adulthood. Changing relationships, transitioning social circles, educational advancements, career evolution, relocation and self determination. And for me religion, specifically my church and my religion has greatly helped me cope with all this change.


2. Cause I need people!

I'm a pretty social person. And the same way the Church has provided me with stability it has also provided me with an essential support system. Church has provided me with a home away from home, a stand in family when mine couldn't be there.  Members of our church takes care of each other (physically and emotionally) and I am so grateful for that

On top of the support system it gives me some social interaction I might not have otherwise.  Its hard to meet people as a YSA.  The bar scene isn't super conducive to relationships that aren't potentially disastrous (friendships and romantic relationships).  Church gives me a group of people who are in similar places in their lives who can be my other option on a Friday night.

3. Cause I'm not perfect!

Surprise surprise right?  My religion provides with many opportunities and ways to become closer to my Savior Jesus Christ.  Though I strongly believe I don't NEED organized religion to be close to my Savior  (I'm a HUGE believer in spirituality over religiosity but that is a topic for another day!) I do also strongly believe that my religion give me tools to be closer to my Savior.

Through Church I am able to learn more about Jesus Christ and how to be more like Him.  I am able to partake in ordinances of the priesthood that give me extra help and comfort as I navigate this crazy life!


4.Cause I learn soo much!

Of course any church teaches you lots.  We go to church for 3 hours every week...so lots of time to study and discuss things of a religious nature.  We study the Bible as well as the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants (other canonized scripture) in Sunday School as well as the teachings of modern-day prophets and general doctrines of the church.  Lessons could be about Daniel in the lions den or the Word of Wisdom (our "law" of health).  They could be about dealing with trials well or about the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.  Its a mixed bag...and often since I grew up in the church its something I've already heard or already know.  But the repetition and variety is never a problem for me.  I always learn something new, or see something in a different light.

On top of scriptural and doctrinal knowledge, being a member of my church means that I learn a great deal about other people, organization, preparation, and responsibility.  Our church has what is called a lay ministry.  AKA the members of the church run the congregation.  I have been a leader in the women's organization, music leader, a teacher, and a director of service projects.  All of these responsibilities have given me life long training in planning activities and running organizations effectively.

On top of this, I have learned so much about people and interacting with people.  Our church is diverse in background, beliefs and personalities.  I am immensely grateful for the social skills that being a member of this church has taught me.  I am also incredibly grateful for having opportunities to learn how serve when it isn't easy, be tolerant of those I disagree with and to understand those who are different from me.


5. Because it makes me happy.

Sometimes my religion can be frustrating.  When I am trying to find clothes that are fashionable and meet my religious modesty standards.....or when I have extra meetings all day on Sunday...or when I just don't want to fulfill a responsibility cause I'm just too busy, overwhelmed or tired.
BUT....
In general the occasional frustration is IMMENSELY outweighed by the happiness that comes from having wonderful friends.  From having opportunities to serve.  From learning.  From hearing comforting and uplifting words.  From applying the doctrine and counsel to my life.


And so that is why I stay.  That is why I won't be going anywhere soon!



So why are you staying in your religion?  Why are you going to your church?


(If you would like more information...please visit this website or post questions in the comment box below)

Since It is Sunday: The Lord is My Shepherd

Today I spoke in church


WAHOO.....it was the best experience ever.... (in case you can't read my sarcasm...that last sentence was dripping in it)


I really have no fear of public speaking.  However I do find writing a giving a talk to just be a total hassle.


BUT  I talked about how our Savior Jesus Christ is often called "The Good Shepherd"

This one of my favorite hymns in the LDS Hymn book.
Such a beautiful melody!!!!!!

Artistic Credits to Greg Olson

 

A New Chapter Begins

So I have the ability now to talk about the reason I have been sooooo dreadfully bad at blogging lately.

Lots has been changing in my life and things are all finalized so I can talk about it.
I've had some very "Smile Because It Happened" moments lately

As you all know...I'm a nurse who has been working in an adult cardiac progressive unit.
But you all also know that my passion has ALWAYS been pediatrics.

I have always wanted to help little kiddos feel better and help their parents understand and cope with the healthy issues their family is experiencing.

After being at my current job for a little over a year I began the pediatric search.  I applied and occasionally interviewed nation wide.  But eventually I was lucky enough to apply and interview for a position here in St Louis, at a children's hospital.  (There is a VERY VERY long story that I might tell sometime but....)

It felt like the perfect job from the start and my interview went very well.  It was a speedy process...set up the interview on Monday, interviewed on Tuesday...AND
WEDNESDAY received an OFFER!!!! (Wish I could have made that more of a surprise.....)

I had pretty much already decided to take it but I took a little time to make sure I looked at all my options.
And the next day I accepted and  I met with my current manger and gave her my 2 weeks notice....because if I didn't I wouldn't be able to start at the new job when they needed me to!


I am truly sad to leave my current position.  I have a deep love for the heart.  I adore and admire all my co-workers.  They have trained me and taught me so much.  They have made me a better nurse and helped me be a better person.  I will hate leaving the comfort of what I know.

But I'm not going to cry about it.  I'm just going to be immensely grateful.

I could not have asked for a better first job as a nurse.  I'm not even close to the same nurse as I was a little over a year ago...and that is all thanks to the mentoring and training I received.


But as Dr Suess says...
Don't Cry Cause Its Over....Smile Because It Happened.

Things You Should Know About Tuesdays

So I'm gonna start a new series.

Every Tuesday I will introduce you to something new......or something I'm pretty sure not many people know about....but they SHOULD.


We will see how it goes!!!!!



Today I would like to introduce you to one of my BESTIES!!!!!!!

Miss Julie Humphries.....
One of the most talented singer/songwriters I have EVER met.

Also totes gorg...and single gentleman......

She recently set up a YouTube Channel.....so LIKE/FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE (whatever you do on YouTube)


CHECK HER OUT!!!!

(she will hopefully become a regular on Smile Because It Happened)

Mixtape Monday...What "Christmas" Music is Acceptable Pre-Thanksgiving

I have a VERY VERY firm view on Christmas music pre-Thanksgiving.

As in NO....

My favorite radio station has started playing Christmas music.

No more Acoustic Sunset (3 hours of acoustic versions of my favorite songs during my peek driving time??...HELLO!!!! BEAUTIFUL)

 :(  boo hoo



HOWEVER.  There are TWO acceptable Christmas songs year 'round

Since Its Sunday...Brought to You By Mindy Gledhill

Alright Peeps.....

I know what you are thinking..."Will you STOP talking about this lady's music!!"
DEAL WITH IT!!!!!
You don't have to read this blog....wait don't stop reading...PLEASE DONT STOP READING!!!!


BUT anyway....

I have LITERALLY worn a hole in this CD.

(Yes I listen to the CD version...my car is from 2002.....)


I have my favorites of course and I listen to them almost exclusively.  Which means that frankly there are several songs I hardly ever listen to...and certainly don't pay attention to!


But today this one came up...AND SO PERFECT!!!!



Sundays can be exhausting...emotionally and physically.

It usually ends up being a long day of church meetings and helping people.

All good things.  But draining.


And so when I finally left the church building today (got there at 11...left at 6:30) this song came on.
AND OH MY GOSH....It spoke to me and brought the tears to my eyes.


Enjoy!

MOVIE MONDAY Careful...I've Cried like MULTIPLE times with this one!

Alright ladies and gents.  This is a beautiful and inspiring. 

Those are the only words I can think of!

Hard to keep my eyes dry for this one.

The children and the staff are so strong despite the difficult things they face.

I love it!!!!
And now you all get a glimpse of why of love pediatrics!!!!!!!


Keep Smilin'
Be Happy Be Healthy!!!!!

The Bang Debate

Do We Like or Do We Dislike.



For realzees people the debate is ongoing.  Even a month and a trim later.

So lets be real about this.
Initiate Pro/Con List


Pros

Cute look
Different look
Makes it so I don't really have to do my eye-makeup


Cons

ITCHY forehead (oh my gosh)
I've already had to trim, and another is likely just around the corner
The UPKEEP...gotta shower, gotta blow dry.  UGH



Unfortunately.....the pros/cons balance out

So I have no idea what to do!!!
Grow them out...keep them for a while?


VOTE...my hair fate is in your hands!!!!

Because I'm a Nurse

1. I'm addicted to smarties.  Some people drink coffee.  I eat smarties.

2. Every time I meet someone new/shake someone's hand I turn it just a little bit to see how their veins look.  Its worse if you date me cause then I can look at your whole arm with out it being tooooo weird.

3. I eat at 2 AM almost nightly.  Nights on and Nights off work...always get munchy at 2 AM.  And yes I have left my bed for a midnight kitchen raid.

4. Nailing/blowing an IV both makes and RUINS my day

5. I diagnosis myself constantly...I am a self proclaimed hypochondriac

6. I'm a crazy germaphobe.  Like for REALS.  We have these purple wipe things...death wipes I call them.  I do a thorough wipe down at the beginning and end...and sometimes the middle of EVERY shift!

7. Every 3 months I go around with the "Booty Patrol" and examine the backsides of EVERY patient in the hospital.  In the space of roughly 5 hours I usually see...hmmm I'd say at least 75 butts!

8. Very few sights and smells gross me out anymore...unless they are fake. The fake stuff is always worse than the real stuff.  Weird I know!

9. I can identify and locate any beeping on the floor...oral thermometer dying, IV occluded vs complete vs dying, chair and bed alarms, monitor red and yellow alarms, dinamaps dying

10. Some nights are crazy and some nights I feel like a failure...but more often than not...I am able to leave my shift feeling like I might have actually made a difference.


Thanks Anna and Paige for running this one!


Keep Smilin Everybody
Be Happy Be Healthy

SARA B...My Personal Life Coach

Like for REALS this woman ABSOLUTELY rocks my world.

Honestly has she ever written a song that didn't speak to me.

I LOVE my religion.  I feel very strongly that there is no place better to find advice than the scriptures...and the words of trusted leaders of my church.

HOWEVER....
Sara Barellies is a close second.


A little bit ago I got to see her live. And it was incredible.  Life altering and amazing etc.

And I could give you a play by play or put up tons of videos and pictures.  But lets just do this.....

Does anybody know how to hold my heart?

Cause I've had my fair share of take care and goodbyes

I've learned how to cry

And I'm better for that

You can't waste the day wishing it'd slow down

There's too many things that I haven't done yet

Too many sunsets I haven't seen

I hate to break it to you, babe 

But I'm not drowning 

There's no one here to save

All my life I've tried

To make everybody happy while I just hurt And hide

Waitin' for someone to tell me it's my turn to decide.

I'm already out of foolproof ideas, so don't ask me how

To get started, it's all uncharted...

Jump start my kaleidoscope heart, 

Love to watch the colors fade,

They may not make sense, 

But they sure as hell made me.

Compare where you are to where you want to be, and you'll get nowhere

I won't go as a passenger, no

I'm taking flame over burning out 

I want to be enough

I want to let the rain come down

Make a brand new ground

I wish I were pretty. I wish I were brave

And if I were fearless Then I'd speak my truth

And I always felt it before

That the world was filled with much more

Than the drowning soul I've learned to be

I just need the rain to remind me

Well, no more, It's not me anymore

You can be amazing You can turn a phrase into a weapon or a drug

You can be the outcast Or be the backlash of somebody’s lack of love

Or you can start speaking up

Nothing’s gonna hurt you the way that words do When they settle ‘neath your skin

Kept on the inside and no sunlight Sometimes a shadow wins

But I wonder what would happen if you

Say what you wanna say And let the words fall out

Honestly I wanna see you be brave

Everybody’s been there, Everybody’s been stared down by the enemy

Fallen for the fear And done some disappearing,

Bow down to the mighty

Don’t run, stop holding your tongue

Maybe there’s a way out of the cage where you live

Maybe one of these days you can let the light in

Show me how big your brave is

AND FINALLY...

BEST SONG EVER WRITTEN!!!!!

You said, remember that life is not meant to be wasted

We can always be chasing the sun!

My earth is somebody's ceiling,

There's a history through us

Sent to us as a gift from the future, to show us the proof

More than that, it's to dare us to move

And to open our eyes and to learn from the sky

All we can do is try

And live like we're still alive

Keep Smilin' Y'all

Be Happy Be Healthy

You Can Have St Louis

Cause I can't have you.


Its time for me to leave.  To depart my beloved town.

Sara B wrote this song about moving and breaking up and all that...
so basically she wrote it about me (not her and her own personal experiences of course)


I haven't told many people.  I guess I just want to tip toe away.

Maybe it cowardly.  Maybe its mean.
But its really hard to leave.
And I just don't want to do goodbyes.

Shall We Catch Up???

Got some hot cocoa?  (or coffee or tea or whatever you you drink)
Its a beautiful fall day.  The leaves are turning and there is a crispness in the air.
We just need a light jacket and there are great deck in the back and a porch in the front...take your pick.
(but this shot is the back...so I suggest the deck)

Lets sit...lets chat.

What have you been up to?

Yeah?

No way!!!!!

That is too bad.

That is the greatest!  Way to go!



Oh me?


Well lets do the quick overview yes?
By category and here we go.

Church:
Still going to the singles branch.  All sorts of fun craziness.
Still working in public affairs and greatly enjoying creating a positive image of Mormon YSAs.

Work:
Still working on an adult cardiac unit.
Lots of changes (don't get me started on the new healthcare laws and how they effect me nightly)
As with most change its been a little painful....
But luckily I have INCREDIBLE co-workers who make it easy to smile even when things are rough

School:
YEAH I'm not going!!!  At least not yet...
And probably won't for another little while.

Social:
Oh gosh we don't have time for that.
It's busy.  I have some wonderful beautiful friends who make it so much easier to deal with the crazy.
We stay out too late.  We talk and laugh and always have each other's backs.  Oh I love them!



Its an interesting life.  And that is the long and short of it.


Keep Smilin' Y'all

Be Happy Be Healthy!