Friday, December 14, 2012

Catching Up

Last time I sat down to write a post was in October.  I had started a post all about Chandler.  She turned 18 on October 19th.  Too many thoughts, too much to write and I got sidetracked.  So, if anyone has any patience, this could be a marathon-catch up post.

I wrote about Rylee's birth story, so with Chandler's permission, I get to write a little about her.  My due date for Chandler was October 25th.  I stopped working right around the 15th.  Doing last minute things to "get ready."  On the morning of the 18th, I had taken my car in to get new tires.  They ended up telling me that I needed all this other work done on the car.  At the time, we could only afford the new tires, and I drove home in tears and called Craig to tell him.  He got mad at me.  He was mad that I would be so upset, as he figures mechanics warn you about all the things you "need" but don't really need.  He came home from work and we weren't really speaking.  I made dinner, had baked chocolate chip cookies from scratch and went to bed.  Long story short, my water broke about midnight.  We drove to the hospital still without speaking.  

Once we were at the hospital and I got all situated, Craig fell asleep.  OK...I guess I tried to understand and cut him some slack?  It was 2:30 am, after all....

At 6:30 and with my contractions getting stronger, I decided it was time for him to WAKE UP.  I had made a decision that I thought I could do this without an epidural.  My doctor came in around 8:00 and I couldn't even focus on anything he was saying.  I was in miserable pain.  He left and my nurse strongly encouraged me to get the epidural.  Around 9:30, I was begging for it.  Ah...what a relief.  My nurse, by the way...loved her.  She was amazing and it is memories of her being with me that inspire me in my new chapter of life.  

Chandler was born at 2:21 pm.  After talks of possible c-section, I was able to push my little 6lb 6oz girl out.  We didn't know what we were having, so this was a beautiful surprise. There were a lot of tears in that room that afternoon...

Chandler was a beautiful, sweet, quiet baby.  Don't get me wrong...she cried.  A lot.  But, she was quiet like a mouse.  Shy.  Cautious.  Soft spoken. Gentle. Afraid to do anything wrong.  She's still very much like this to this day.  More than anything, I pray that she (and Rylee, too) are happy.  That Craig and I have done everything we can to raise confident, strong, caring, giving, happy girls. 

I kind of worried about her 18th birthday.  Her very best friend is on the east coast.  Her other good friend had recently moved away, and she had just broken up with her boyfriend.  Her birthday fell on a Friday.  So, with about 18 of her fellow cheerleader/sisters, we all went to dinner and followed that with them cheering at the football game.  It was a great night.  I think she was a happy girl.  

In November, Chandler and I took a trip to Norman, Oklahoma to visit the OU campus.  For the longest time, Chandler has had no idea where she wants to attend college.  She's a homebody.  She gets homesick and a little nervous being away from home.  But, the more we talked about it, the greater her interest in OU became.  I figured it was worth a trip for her to see what a bigger school was like.  

It was a great mom-daughter trip.  We stayed with our dear friends, the Youngs.  Craig's sister, Jana, drove us around Norman and attended the tour with us.  Friends (the Johnsons) we met in Tulsa met us for lunch and the tour, as well.  My dear friend,Traci, from Texas Tech happened to be in town, as well, and met up with me for a quick 15 minutes at our tailgate!  We tailgated before the game.  So much fun.  Weather was breezy, but great.  We had a blast watching the game from a suite upstairs.  Met some great people.  It was a great trip and Chandler loved it.  Application is in and we'll see what happens.  It's just one option out of a couple.  If nothing else, it was a wonderful experience.

Thanksgiving was great, even though we weren't able to get back to El Paso. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.  I love being with my family and friends.   We had old friends over, along with Craig's dad.  It was a day of football watching, being with good friends and great food.  

Fast forward to now.  I just finished up my second semester of nursing school.  It wasn't easy.  But with the support of family and good friends, I survived!  Yesterday we took our final and I managed to squeak out an A for the semester.  Yay...I got my A!  I know I shouldn't put so much emphasis on the grade, but I do. Halfway done!

And so now, I am going to try to be on cruise control.  Hoping to spend some good quality time around this house and not stress, at least until it's time to crack open the books again for N3...

Happy Friday. 

Friday, October 5, 2012

Update

And just like that, the 6th week of school is behind us.  Hallelujah.  And in the last few weeks, I have opened up this blog and attempted to write something.  But, my mind goes blank.  So, I've gathered my thoughts and here's my summary:

I love it.  I hate it.  It's scary.  It's exciting.  Yesterday was so fun!  Today sucked.  I feel accomplished!  I feel defeated.  I think: "I get it."  I think: "WTF am I doing here?" 

Do I sound like Sybil?

This particular week I found myself not enjoying nursing school AT ALL.  And not for any particular reason ...just everything seemed to snowball at once.  Emotionally and physically exhausted.  And I worried that if I said this out loud, does that mean I shouldn't be there?  I know the answer to this already.  If this were easy, then everyone would be doing it, right???  Some days are more challenging and frustrating than others and we press on, right?  I am making an extra effort to say goodbye to the over-achiever who lives inside of me.  For now she is gone, but she might come back for a visit, if I let her.  Wish me luck on that one.  

My clinical rotation is at JFK this semester.  Worlds apart from Eisenhower in many ways.  I find the nurses at JFK much more willing and happy to help the students.  They all seem to be very happy working there.  There are some amazing nurses whom I am inspired and encouraged by...only being out of school for a couple of years and being the rock stars that they are.  

I have had several Spanish speaking only patients.  So much for the Spanish I thought I knew....

In other news...the girls are staying busy with school and their schedules.  Chandler has turned a 180 and now seems excited about the idea of going away to college.  Today we booked a flight and are going to visit OU next month.  She seems beyond excited about this.  Also high on the list is moving to South Carolina for school.  I cannot even imagine her being so far. Two weeks ago, I found out that I was awarded 4 scholarships for my nursing program.  I vaguely remember applying for them, as I didn't think I qualified for any of them.  I was ecstatic.  Now, if only Chandler can manage to do the same!  Otherwise, how the heck do we pay for her college??  Obama says he has made college more affordable....really?  For who and where? Scary.  

So, it's a Friday night and tonight I skip the away game.  t.i.r.e.d.  So, just chilling at home and re-charging so I can focus on writing a research paper this weekend.   I'm excited about that.  Really.  Excited.  Not.  

Happy Weekend. 





Sunday, August 26, 2012

Goodbye Summer, It Was Great!

Wow...it's been over 3 weeks since my last post.  When I said I had a full calendar, I wasn't kidding.  We went to San Diego for a few days earlier in the month and had a great day at the beach on Coronado, caught a couple of Padres games and did some back to school shopping.  And made a stop for a campus tour at Cal State San Marcos.  Chandler's still not sure where she wants to go...so we continue to try to figure that one out.  

Upon our return, it was non-stop with doctor's appointments, school orientations and cheer practices and other stuff.  I managed to start reading for my upcoming semester.  The days have absolutely flown by, with very little downtime and now here we are the night before the first day of school.  

This, without a doubt, was one of the best summers on record for me. It was for the most part, stress and worry free (minus Craig's golf cart accident...still on the mend and not 100%).  In a nutshell, I:

Read trashy books (you know which ones)
Vegged on the beach.  
Visited with very old friends...so great.  So great.  
Celebrated Craig's dad's 80th birthday. 
Spent a little time with my sister-in-law.  <3 
Worked (for 8 days).  
Baked a couple of peach pies.  
Took in a couple of baseball games.  
Went to the water park.  
Staycationed at a local hotel. 
Went to Dallas Cowboys Training Camp.
Jetski'd, kayaked, parasailed and horseback rode in Lake Tahoe. 
Spent lots of time with great girlfriends....with whom I laugh til I cry and til my stomach hurts.  (There were some fun, fun times.  I love my friends.).

I know there's more.  I wish I could say I worked out faithfully...but I did not.  In fact, I got very sluggish and lazy for the last month.  The ugly August weather might have something to do with that.  But, I have enjoyed as much as I possibly could this summer.  And in a blink of an eye...it's over already.  (Sad face.)

And so now another school year is upon us....

My girls both have big years ahead of them.  Chandler begins her senior year tomorrow.  She's having a hard time being excited about it.  Over the last 2 years, her best friend, Allison, moved away and more recently another close friend moved away.  And her boyfriend of 7 months will be going off to college.  I hope that she can see it clearly to make the most of this final year of high school.  I am so proud of this girl.  Yesterday, as we were out running a few errands, she stopped to register to vote...she'll turn 18 just before the election.  It was so surreal to watch her fill out this form...emotional.  And an hour later, she was officially offered her first job!  She'll be working at Good Stuff Pizza...and she's so excited about it.  Interestingly, this is the same restaurant that Craig was considering buying about 10 years ago.  

And Rylee...she starts 8th grade tomorrow and I am equally proud of her.  She competed on 3 cheer teams last year and still managed to make a 4.0.  She will be in two clubs at school this year that will keep her busy...and she is really looking forward to it.  I can't believe my baby is in her last year of middle school.  Wow..the time....does it ever fly...

And me...I start my second semester of nursing school on Tuesday.  Yep, and I'm scared to death!  Wish me luck!

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Olympic Love

It was the '72 Summer Olympic Games, when my love for the games and gymnastics began.  I was 6 and I was infatuated with Olga Korbut.  She had this signature type move on the balance beam.....



And I could so do this.  I loved Olga with her cute pigtails and her slightly crooked teeth.  She was my idol.  After the Olympic games, my mom enrolled me in my first gymnastics class at the "Y"...and I was hooked.  I continued gymnastics through high school.  I was alright...not great, but loved it to no end.  I was beyond excited when I was able to attend Bela Karolyi's traveling gymnastics camp when they came to El Paso.  Imagine the excitement to be able to tumble with Bela??!!  And his wife, Marta, coaching on balance beam?  Yep, pretty exciting.  

As much as I want to say that I follow gymnastics in the Olympics, I only halfway do.  I can't remember when the scoring system changed.  I still don't understand how it's figured.  And I am not sure when it went from the "Magnificent 7" to the "Fab 5."  When and why did I miss all this? 

I am so enjoying the Olympics this summer.  More so than ever.  Maybe it's because I notice that all four of us are laying on the couch enjoying it together.  Together, we admire the physiques and talents of the divers, the gymnasts, the swimmers.  (Ryan Lochte...yes, we love you.)  But, we love rooting our USA teams on.  I have cried almost every night watching..with pride and with agony. 

Today I have made it a point to avoid any news on TV or on the Internet.  Don't want any more spoilers for tonight.  

The countdown to back to school is on and I am overwhelmed by the amount of things that I have to get done and with a very full August calendar to squeeze it all into.

For starters, guess where I am headed tomorrow?  Yep, that's right...Dallas Cowboys Training Camp...with two VIP tickets.  I am one excited girl! 

Monday, July 16, 2012

Lake Tahoe


Last week, we set out for our postponed trip to Lake Tahoe.  We've been up there only one other time, about 4 summers ago.  My aunt and uncle have a home, a beautiful home, on the lake and we were fortunate enough to be able to stay with them for a few days.  There really are no words to describe the beauty...other than it is like a fairy tale castle in the pines.  I secretly (or not so secretly) hope or imagine my girls being married in the beautiful garden surrounding the house. 

Anyway, we enjoyed all the lake activities we could...boating across the lake to Emerald Bay, kayaking (more on that), jet skiing, parasailing, horseback riding and just enjoying the cool mountain air.  We were only away for 6 days, and 2 of those were driving days, so we got in as much as we could. 

The kayak:  Rylee and I decided to venture out...our first time in a kayak.  There is a little dock area that is surrounded by rocks at the house.  The one-seater kayak was large enough for the two of us little people.  So, we get in and start kayaking (is that the word?) around, staying fairly close to the pier.  Scaredy cat me, is to reluctant to venture out past the buoys.  So, around we go.  Rylee is a star paddler, while I am trying to steer with the pedals.  About the time we decide it's time to be done, I am doing not such a good job with steering to the dock and instead, we are headed towards the rocks.  The water is getting slightly rougher and kind of pushing us into the rocks.  I am totally not able to get us out and to the dock.  At some point, the kayak tips over and out we go!  And OMG, the rocks are soooo slippery from the moss.  Very long story short, Rylee hurt her fingers and I came out with scrapes, bumps and bruises and I am not sure how the hell I got that kayak out of the water, but I did.  Kayaking:  Done.  Way too much work.  Not any fun.  Don't need to do that again, thank you very much. 

I should have taken a picture of the kayak for posterity.  But, it's ingrained in my head.
We never miss an opportunity to go riding!

Cruising from the north shore to the south.

We had a blast on the jet skis!
After our ride, we checked out the Emerald Bay lookout point.



So, now we are back.  It was a long drive home and we were all glad to be home sleeping in our own beds.  Rylee and I have both managed to develop sore throats.  Her initial throat culture came back this morning as positive for strep, but they will confirm in two days.  Hope it's not...hope I don't have it.  So...we are laying low for a couple of days.  Thinking some good 'ole chicken soup is in order!








Monday, July 2, 2012

Just Cruising With a Small Bump or Two

Summer's cruising along and I am doing my best to enjoy every second of it.  The calendar says it's July now, and that makes me panic a wee bit.  It means August is just around the corner!!  That cannot happen, yet!

We have had a good little balance of days of doing nothing much mixed with days at the water park, a 24-hour fabulous staycation at La Quinta Resort, sleepovers, movies, baseball games, dinners with friends, hitting balls on the driving range.  I am not working out nearly as much as I should or want to, which doesn't make me happy.  I wish I could find the motivation for this.  I have read four books, and I'll be honest...after finishing 50 Shades of Grey...nothing else seems interesting!  

One thing I have decided to do, is become a distributor for It Works!  I am so far from a sales person and I am normally a huge skeptic, but these products have really intrigued me.  The wraps feel good and are a hot commodity right how...so much that they are now on back order for 3-4 weeks.  If you are reading this blog and want to find out more about this line of products (that will tone, tighten, and firm your skin...along with making you feel good!), check out this link: https://lorifreeman.myitworks.com/UltimateMakeover.

Last week, Chandler cut off her hair.  16 inches.  She's wanted to donate her hair to Locks of Love and she was ready for a change.  It's darling and she loves it.  

Before Chandler did this, a friend of ours asked Chandler to model for her clothing website (http://bodygearonline.com/) check it out, it's cute, cute stuff.  Chandler was beyond thrilled to be asked to do this and had lots of fun doing it! 

So, summer hasn't been without a couple of bumps in our road.  After coming off Chandler's broken nose a few months ago, we've had Craig's work injury.  He's doing better, but not healed completely.  There was a possibility that they thought he may need a skin graft, but looks like that won't be necessary.  It still looks pretty ugly and he's still hobbling a bit.  We got a call on Father's Day morning from Craig's dad, from the ER.  He had been there for several hours.  Ended up being a kidney stone.  He's doing much better.  And then most recently, we had a bit of a mishap involving the car and the house.  And that's all I'll say on that one (but it wasn't me...).  None of these things were earth-shattering and we thank our lucky stars.  Just small bumps with added expenses and inconveniences...it could be worse, much worse, right? 

Looking forward to this week..always love watching a good fireworks show and preparing for our Lake Tahoe getaway at the end of the week! 

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

What Day Is It, Anyway?

Last week on Tuesday, I was somewhere and as I said goodbye to the person I was talking to, I added, "Have a great weekend!"  Wait....what??  For the last couple of weeks, I have had no idea what day it is.  I so have to stop and focus about the day and date and look at the calendar to be sure I am not missing an appointment or where the kids need to be.  I kind of like it, but then again, I feel like I have been in a cloud! But, I DO know what today is...it's officially the first day of summer!

Last week was the first full week of summer vacation for the kids and on Monday, it got off to a scary start.  Craig called me around noon to let me know he had had a little bit of an accident at work.  He was on a golf cart, hit a slick spot on the cart path and it fishtailed, then rolled.  His leg was pinned underneath and he couldn't get out from it.  A couple of workers on the course saw it happen and helped him.  Long story short, he ended up being transported by ambulance to the ER.  Nothing broken, but left with 8 staples to his lower leg.  It was ugly.  We are grateful, as it could have been much worse.  He's hobbling around and is still in some discomfort.  He is supposed to have the staples removed on Friday. 

Aside from that, we've done a lot of nothing for the most part...no where we really need to be, with the exception of cheer practices.  We've done a day long beach trip with friends.  We've done night swimming at the Esmeralda.  We've said goodbye to a friend who moved away....another one of Chandler's best friends has moved.  Sad. 

I got to visit with an old pal from El Paso last week.  She came to town with her daughter and  it was so much fun to hang by the pool and catch up and reminisce about our younger days!  Tomorrow, we get to have a little "staycation" at the the La Quinta Resort.  Just one night, but we'll have fun spending the night away from the house at one of my very favorite places.  

Over the last 2 weeks, I have managed to read three of the books on my list.  Just started the third book of "50 Shades.." Have you read it, yet? 

In the midst of enjoying not knowing what day it is, I am still on the search for a part-time job.  Hoping I find one soon...

With Craig's leg still not healed, we have postponed a trip to Lake Tahoe that we were originally going to take next week.  Hoping he's back to close to normal in the next couple of weeks so we can go have some fun on the lake and get the heck outta the heat!  Good thoughts for Craig and speedy healing!


Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Celebrate...

Celebrate good times come on....

I always manage to turn something that my kids say into a song.  It annoys them to no end.  Rylee can't understand how I can instantly break into song with a single word or phrase that she or Chandler is saying.  (But, now I am starting to see where she gets some of her random, spontaneous song outbursts from....).  I can't help it.  I love to be silly sometimes.  Unfortunately, I don't think my kids find it silly...just embarrassing.  Oh well..

So, speaking of celebrating, it's what I've been doing.  I love my birthday and I celebrate it for as long as possible.  Or for as long as it doesn't become totally obnoxious.  For me, it starts with Mother's Day.  I get a little attention and a little bit of spoiling and feel all special....and I kind of just run with it.  During May, the weather is warm and from my previous post, we all know how I feel about that.  More reason to celebrate--that summer is comin'.

After my final (and after I came out of my little funk of not getting the grade I so wanted), I pampered myself with a little massage.  From there, I did a lot of stuff around this house that had been neglected over the last few months.  Swept out and organized the garage a little.  Cleaned up the laundry room.  Cleaned up this desk and filed things away.  I read the first of "50 Shades of Grey" (oh my...).  And started "Bloom."  I am getting things checked off of my summer to do list early.

I find so many little things that make me happy.  So, the little things that help me celebrate are attending year-end school awards assemblies and banquets....for academics and for cheer.  Nothing makes me happier than seeing my girls work hard and be rewarded and acknowledged for their efforts and talents.  All the year end culmination is happy and fun and exciting and it all falls around my birthday.

Friday night after one of our cheer banquets, some of our families gathered by the pool where our banquet was held.  The kids swam and the adults sat with our adult beverages and snacks and we laughed and laughed and laughed.  My stomach hurt.  It was too much fun and just the perfect way to "officially" start my birthday weekend. 

Saturday morning, Chandler left for a beach trip with her high school cheer team and Rylee left for an all day/all night birthday party.  As of 10 am, I found myself by myself.  What to do...So, I made myself breakfast.  I ran an errand and then ventured into Sephora.  I love Sephora.  I just wandered and played with makeup for about an hour.  From there, I treated myself to a pedi.  Bright pink with green polka dots.  Fun.  Summery.  Birthday-ish, right?  From there, it was sushi for dinner with Craig.  A lovely, quiet day.

Sunday was just pretty chill around the house.  Had breakfast then Craig and I headed over to the Esmeralda pool where Rylee's birthday party was finishing up.  We met friends, had cocktails and laid in the pool and the weather was nothing short of perfect.  From there it was Chandler's high school cheer banquet and home.  Chandler's boyfriend came by to pick her up and brought me a little cupcake.  My only cake for the day.  Got to make a wish and blow out a candle.  Thanks Andrew.  We couldn't let the evening end without a trip to Coldstone.  Yummy Cake Batter ice cream with strawberries.  My fav.

And last night.  Mexican dinner and margaritas with some great girlfriends.  Oh my...the things we talk and laugh about.  It was great and I am so grateful to have such beautiful friends in my life.

Goodness gracious...I think I am done.  Time to cleanse and dry out for awhile.

So, another year older, and I hope, wiser.....Last summer I was pretty sure I was having a mid-life crisis.  I had this panic attack that I had so little time left to "be young."  And panicking about what I was going to do with the rest of my life.  Well, after finally being admitted to the nursing program, I am grateful that I will get to do what I have wanted to do for so long.  And while I was doing my clinicals this semester, I had a couple of patients that made an impact on me.  Our focus this semester was geriatrics and orthopedics.  I had one female patient who was 61 years of age.  Without giving too much info, let's just say she was HOT.  She was beautiful.  Natural.  She was in great shape...and like I said...she was, well...hot.  She was 61 and she might as well have been 41.  I had a couple of great conversations with her.  Another one of my patients was a 75 year old male.  Not kidding..he had the body of someone who was 30 years younger and in phenomenal shape.  Hardbody like you would not believe.  He told me that he and his wife have been married for 55 years.  And that his wife might as well be 50 years younger than him, because it's how she looked and acted.  Getting to know these two patients gave me reassurance that you truly are as old as you feel.  And obviously, if you take care of your body.  And if I ever second guessed myself about acting and feeling youthful or retaining my youth, these two patients were proof positive that it's not only A-OK, but it IS possible.  

We have more celebrating to do...only 2 more days of school this week!


  



Monday, May 21, 2012

My 'I Love Summer' Post

I love summer.  I do.  Actually, I used to love summer much more than I do now.  I think as I get older, the less I enjoy the extreme heat out here.  I should clarify that it's the early days of summer that I love.  Those days in May and early June, where we are "eased" into the heat of summer.  Temps in the 90s and maybe the occasionally century mark and the feel of the heat on my skin feels good.  Tank tops.  Short shorts.  Pretty sundresses with spaghetti straps.  Sun-kissed skin.  The days before it stays so hot and you are just "over it."  I love summer until it's mid-July and it's been 110 out all month long and I get into my car and burn my legs on my seat and then I slide out from the sweat and then I think to myself, "I just HAD to have the leather seats, right?"  I should have listened to the kids when I bought this car.  They're the ones that remember what leather seats feel like in the summer....Anyway, it's not even the end of May, yet, and we haven't really been "eased" into summer.  It just kind of appeared.  Mother's Day graced us with 107.  And although temps have dipped only slightly since then, it looks like summer is here.  Today was a balmy (not) 109.  It's May.  Hello Summer.  

But, I do love summer.  And for the last two years, I have made my "annual" Summer To-Do List.  Things I want or need to do over the summer.  And since now school is officially out for me, I am now putting together my list.  I'm excited.  Here's just a few things that are on this summer's list:

Go to the beach.  As many times as I can.
Get a job.  At least part-time.  I really need to do this.
Bake a peach pie.  Or two.  
Watch lots of movies and eat popcorn with my girls.  
Watch the sunset on the beach.  
Catch a couple of Padres games.
Staycation at La Quinta Resort.
Clean out closets.
Have a garage sale.  
Make lots of strawberry lemonade slushies (none of that McDonald's crap....we use Trader Joe's Organic Reduced sugar lemonade, fresh strawberries and ice.  Yum!)

My pleasure reading for the summer (which one to start with?):

There's one more that's not shown...50 Shades of Grey..yes, I will be reading that, too.   



And not so much for pleasure reading, but a must for a head start for Nursing 2:


There's more fun on my "to-do" list...it's just in my head somewhere and hasn't quite made it out onto paper...

Last summer I was addicted to three different salads.  This hot weather makes me crave cool, refreshing, healthy yummy things to eat.  So, I will share my addictions:

  • Arugula, fresh basil (thinly sliced), extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper.  Yum!

I don't particularly like to eat at Tommy Bahama's but they do have a great Asian slaw side that they serve.  I tried recreating it and then finally googled it...here it is:

  • Shredded green cabbage, thinly sliced jicama, flat leaf parsley, evoo, fresh lime juice, salt and pepper.  Love this.  With seared ahi or even as a side with Mexican food. 

And finally...
  • Watermelon (cubed), fresh mint, feta cheese, fresh lime juice, evoo, salt and pepper.  So refreshing.  So good!  
So, as I mentioned, school's out for me.  I did  it.  I got through Nursing 1.  Took my final this morning and thought I was so prepared.  Didn't get the grade I really wanted, but, I am getting over it.  I learned so much.  I am doing something I never in a million years thought I would be doing.  The thought of next semester is terrifying to me.  So I just won't think about that right now.  

I think I'll just start enjoying summer.  Starting now. 

 


Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Losin' the Mojo

Well, it's becoming a pattern here...longer spans between blog posts.  I'm losing a little bit of steam....losing the mojo.  But, I've got reasons.  Yes, I have been wrapped up in school.  And when I am not in class or consumed with reading I am cleaning, cooking, or driving someone around.  And since I am trying to create balance, I am trying to have a good time here and there, too.  Little extra time to set aside to blog.  And then sometimes I avoid this space when I just think I have nothing creative or interesting to say.  Or sometimes I am in a mood where I would love to do nothing more than to vent, but I refrain from doing so on this medium.  I don't pretend that my life is always hunky dory.  I love the phrase "ebb and flow"...our lives definitely ebb and flow and I definitely have been a flowing for a while.  I continue to hear myself say that I have never been happier than I have these last couple of years.  I just like where I'm at and what I'm doing.  Sure, things could be MUCH better in many ways...but, those things will come, I know.  My kids are happier than I have ever seen them.  And THIS makes me very happy.  

Over the last several months, I know I have been guilty of not staying in touch with some of my friends and family.  I call less and less.  I have so little time in my days to sit down and have any length of phone conversations.  Or I am stressed and overwhelmed and I just don't want to call and be a Debbie Downer.  I think and hope that the people in my life know how crazy my schedule has been.  Nursing school is about as intense and stressful as it gets and I am now realizing that I don't think most people get it unless they are going through the program, as well. We all crave the love and support from our friends and family and I try my best to deliver on this aspect to others.  We don't always get back what we give.  And this is not my MO, by any means.  A quick text, at least, lets people know I am thinking of them; or the quick phone call on my way to school or the hospital...even though it's brief...I try when I can. Hey, I get it...we all get caught up in our own lives, so I am forever grateful for the ones understand what I am doing and going through and who check up on me every now and then. : )

The good news is that this semester is over in just 2 short weeks.  Wow!  I am going to make it!  It has been every bit difficult as I was told it was going to be.  But, it's been great and I have learned so much and all I can say is that it's a darn good thing I feel like I am 25 and not 45!  A few short months ago I was freaking out because I couldn't hear a blood pressure.  Now, I have given 4 shots (woo hoo...4 shots...all in the stomach) and some other fun stuff.  I have met some amazing people.  It's been good, good, good.  We are finishing up a hellish type of week at school...a test that it's been made clear that we disappointed our instructor on and a final comprehensive skills test that had everyone feeling the stress and pressure.  This testing made or break our semester...and, sadly,  it turns out it broke a couple of people.  You fail it, and you fail the semester.  Little bit of pressure? 

So, I guess I can't end this blog post without saying at least a little something about Stagecoach.  Stagecoach is a huge country music festival that is held out here every year late April or early May for 2, sometimes 3 days.  I think this is the 5th year of Stagecoach.  I haven't missed one, yet.  Stagecoach is my happy place.  Hot weather, shorts, cowboy boots, great country music.  Along with about 50,000 people....many of whom are drunk and half naked (it's hot out there...there's a lot of skimpies walking around)....
Me and Rylee
Look!  My very first picture attachment on my blog!

Rylee and Sara Evans
Most years I attend Stagecoach with friends.  I have taken the kids before, but have avoided it, because of the crowds.  This year, we were fortunate to have been given 3 wristbands, which allowed us to a backstage area and VIP area, so Chandler and Rylee were my Stagecoach buddies this year.  As luck would have it, while we were backstage, Rylee was able to meet and have her picture taken with Sara Evans, Brett Eldredge and The Band Perry.  It was pretty fun and exciting.  We saw some great artists perform this year and I know the girls truly enjoyed it. There was a period of time where Rylee was hanging out with her friends and Chandler was with her boyfriend and I found myself just hanging out by myself.  My grandmother always told me it was important to enjoy your own company. Luckily, I'm pretty good by myself.  :)

Until next time...(maybe I'll get the summer lovin' mojo back!)


P.S...I am pretty excited about finally adding photos on here!  I'm moving up in the world here!








Sunday, April 15, 2012

Where Does the Time Go?

Oh, how the time flies.  I'm not sure where the last two weeks have gone.  Actually, I feel like I have just been flying high for the last three weeks.  Just lots of calm, lots of joy.  Just been in a good, sweet, happy place.  

Rylee's birthday was kind of just a chill day around the house.  And she was fine with that.  We had a family dinner at the restaurant of her choice...Hibachi.  It was lots of fun.  That whole week that followed was Spring Break.  This is the first Spring Break since I have had kids that I have not worked or been in school.  I was free to do whatever I wanted WITH my kids.  I am still getting used to the fact that I am not working.  And although it is still somewhat of a financial struggle, I cherish the fact that I have this time.  

I had lofty goals set for myself for that week.  Lots that I wanted to get done.  Being in school and doing the kid thing makes for lots of things left undone around the house.  I managed to get a few things marked off the list, but not all.  That's ok...learning to let some things go.  We kept busy that week with doctor's appointments, shopping, hanging around doing nothing.  We did have Rylee's birthday party with some of her friends.  Rylee's birthday always falls around Spring Break.  For two years now, we always assume that we won't get a good turnout, thinking some or most will be out of town.  Not so...two years in a row, everyone could come!  We took 13 kids ice-skating, then to Sonic, then back here to hang out for a bit and have cookie cake.  It's kind of nice...the older they get the less you really need to plan for them!  

Last week was back to school.  I was a bit apprehensive about going back.  Worried about feeling like I would be starting over after being out of the clinical setting for 2 weeks.  But, it was great.  I had an amazing patient.  It was 2 days of caring for her that was confidence building for me, for sure.  It's hard to believe that we only have 5 weeks left of school.  And only 3 of those weeks left in the hospital.  It's a little unnerving, as I don't feel like it's been enough time.  Not enough time to feel completely competent in all that we are doing.  Praying that by the time the semester ends, I don't feel this way!  

So, this weekend was the first of two weekends of Coachella.  Usually, we are leaving for Vegas for a cheer competition that always falls on the same weekend of Coachella.  While we are in Target shopping for our road trip, the 'fest-ers are there buying up water, chips, sunscreen and whatever else.  They are always a sight to see.  This weekend we were here.  I love the electric feeling of seeing the buzz around the streets and in the stores.  Seeing and hearing of the parties all over town.  It's pretty cool, even if I have no interest in attending.  Now, Stagecoach...that's another story.  Two more weeks...(hoping I can find some tickets!) I haven't missed a Stagecoach, yet.  Not much makes me happier than donning a pair of cowboy boots and shorts and hanging out with a bunch of country music-loving people.  

Off to get ready for the week.  Have a great one!

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Rylee Lauren

Today, my April Fools Baby is a teenager. 13 years old??  How can that possibly be? I can remember the day that she was born like it was yesterday.  


My pregnancy with Rylee was pretty uneventful.  I had two miscarriages before getting pregnant with her, so it was huge relief getting through that first trimester.  I loved being pregnant.  I loved watching my belly grow and watching it move.  My favorite past time would be to lay on the couch and just watch a foot or an elbow stretch and move inside of me.  I used to love the loving looks I would get from people wherever I went and the help I would get in the grocery stores unloading my groceries from the cart on to the check stand!  


My due date was March 29th.  By March 1st, I was ready to have this baby (we didn't know if we were having a boy or a girl, by the way).  I thought there was no way possible that my skin could possibly stretch any further and my body get any bigger.  I was super uncomfortable, too.  I planned to work until March 15th, but I told my boss/friend, Tina, that I didn't think I would make it until then.  I just knew I was going to have this baby ANY day.  Speaking of Tina, she threw me a surprise baby shower.  It was the most beautiful, elegant shower I had EVER been to.  Tina doesn't miss a beat with her parties.  I was so touched and honored for what she did for me.  It was amazingly beautiful.


Each day in March came and went and each day I couldn't believe I wasn't in labor, yet.  On March 31st, I went to see my doctor.  I had my bag packed and in the car, as I was going to beg him to induce me.  He was reluctant to do it and turns out there were no beds available at the hospital anyway!  After begging him, he agreed to induce me the following morning.  April 1st I was going to have this baby.


They started the induction at 6:00 the following morning.  It was a long, drawn out day.  What I remember most is:  Not being happy about not getting an enema that I asked for (I didn't want to poop while pushing).  I know...TMI, but hey, it happens...it's one of those things that no one tells you about.  I remember my contractions being so strong and my mother-in-law being there and massaging my back with a tennis ball.  I remember calling my friend, Tina, telling her to NOT get pregnant again...this labor thing SUCKS!  I remember them breaking my water and getting the epidural almost simultaneously and both being miserable.  


At one point, my father-in-law and his girlfriend came over and I had this room full of people all sitting around watching golf.  I can  remember being super irritated by this.  Sometime after 5:00, my doctor came in.  I was at a 10 by now, but this baby was just not going anywhere.  He had me push a couple of times..each time I pushed her heart rate would drop.  After about 2 pushes, he started to explain that this probably wasn't going to work...I stopped him and told him he didn't need to try to convince me...I knew he wanted to do a C-section...just get this baby out.  


They wasted no time.  I was immediately taken into the OR and they started prepping me.  My doctor's partner is standing across the room watching as they are prepping.  He says to me, "You've got a BIG baby in there."  Thanks Dr. B.  I can remember the creepiest feeling of all the pulling and moving and tugging of all sorts of things in order to get this baby out.  Crazy.

Rylee was born at 6:07 pm.  Eight pounds, six ounces and wedged in....Dr. D said there was no way I would have been able to push her out and he wished he didn't have me go through the labor.  


It seemed like forever for them to stitch me up.  I got to listen to all of them talk about OU football.  I was cold, uncomfortable and all I wanted to do was see my baby.  I kept telling Dr. D to hurry it up. Finally, they took me to the recovery area where Rylee was.  After a few minutes, I think the nurse could tell that I wanted everyone out of there...more people had come...and she made everyone leave (thank you, Nurse!).  


Rylee was born on a Thursday, but she didn't actually get named until Saturday.  Craig and I agreed that if we were having a boy I would name him and if it were a girl, he would name her. We had a list of names and ended up starting over.  So, for almost 2 days she was just our baby Girl.  


One thing is for certain, having an April Fools birthday suits Rylee.  She's silly and goofy and a little hyper (ok, a lot hyper most of the time).  She's got more energy than anyone.  And sometimes it's a little annoying, I'm not gonna lie.  She's constantly singing or dancing.  She's funny and quick witted.  And she's smart and has a lot of common sense.  She's stubborn, too.  But, she's sweet and caring and gracious.  I can't wait to see all of what is in store for this kid.  I am so proud to be her mom.


Happy Birthday sweet Rylee!  I love you!



Thursday, March 22, 2012

Full Heart

I skipped the blog thing last week. I didn't feel like writing about being frustrated or feeling defeated.  Instead, I decided to just "put it in a balloon...and let it go."  I told myself the same thing I would tell anyone else...that after 3 days in the hospital, there is no way one can expect to have everything down pat.  Each day is a great learning experience and what I don't know that day, I make damn sure I know the next.  I am making a promise to stop beating myself up for these things.  

__________________________________________________________

Every once in a while, I wonder what people will remember about me when I die.  I wonder what impact, if any, I have had on anyone's life.  I know I am so far from perfect and don't do everything right, and for sure at times I can be the world's biggest witch (just ask my kids).  But if there's one thing that I pride myself on, it is how I truly like to make people feel good about themselves.  Whether it's someone I know or not.  If I notice a haircut, I'll mention it.  You got cute shoes on?  I'll tell you.  I'm not insincere.  If I'm thinking it, I'll say it.  I like to smile at strangers in the grocery store.  I like the response I get...sometimes people seem so surprised.  I smile.  I'm nice to everyone.  I like to make people feel comfortable and accepted.   It's probably why I had so many guys in college ask me out who I had absolutely zero interest in.....I was just nice to them, but I guess they thought it was more than that?  I am sort of a natural flirt.  Can't help it..it's in my nature.  I flirt with everyone. 

When I was in high school, I had a couple of friends whose houses I would hang out fairly often.  I loved the relationship that developed between me and their moms.  Where they knew so much about me and would make me feel like an additional kid in their family.  Chandler has a couple of friends that I have grown close to.  Sometimes I'll get a text, asking for advice, or when they're feeling bummed about something.  Or when they need a ride somewhere.  They'll sit with me at games.  I have said before how much I love Chandler's friends.  I love being able to go out and support them watching them play their sports.   Last week, I got a text from one of them, thanking me for all I do.  It really touched my heart...he was so sincere.  It made me a little teary. 

This week, a lot made me smile.  Besides my 84 year old patient flirting with ME, I had a classmate tell me something that validated how I like to live my life.  For one of our skills test this week, we needed to pick a partner to pose as our patient.  I was two of my classmate's patients.  One of them stopped me after class early this week.  She wanted to thank me in advance for being her partner and told me she picked me, because I make her feel so comfortable.  She told me how I always smile and that she just gets this warm, friendly, comfortable feeling from me.  I was so taken aback by this.  It made my heart very full. And when you feel like that, you can't help but perpetuate the goodness from it!

Happy Friday Eve!




Monday, March 12, 2012

Taking a Breath

I wish I could say "taking a breather."  But, I'm just taking a really deep breath. 

It was one busy, crazy week.  I had my first patient.  I'll just say it wasn't what I expected.  I have super high expectations of myself.  I expect that I will go in and be this rock star nursing student.  Yep, even though I know so very little about so much.  I hate more than anything being put into a situation and not knowing how to do something.  There was a lot that I didn't know that morning.  It's one thing to practice in the lab on healthy classmates, posing as patients and using equipment that's sort of like hospital equipment.  It's just not the same.  I felt a little defeated when I left the hospital that day and glad when it was over.   The pressure of the first day in the hospital coincided with the pressure of studying for the second test.  It was a lot.  

I made myself escape with Craig and another couple and we saw Willie Nelson on Friday night.  I've seen Willie about 3 or 4 times, but it's been over 20 years.  Boy...he's gotten old, but he can sure still sing. It was a fun escape...and it sure took me back.

I spent the entire day...and I mean the entire day studying on Saturday.  And rewarded myself with a fun night out with Rylee with dinner and Mamma Mia.  Chandler and her boyfriend had their own dinner date, but met up with us to see the show.  It was great.  

Our week wrapped up with another cheer competition at Universal Studios yesterday.  It was a long day, but our teams all did awesome, coming home with a first place, 3 second places and a 3rd place. 

Took our second test this morning.  It was not easy.  We've already been told there were no "As".  We get them back on Thursday.  For now, I'll just put it out of my head and hope for the best!  Which is what I am also hoping for for tomorrow...my second clinical at the hospital and another patient!  Wish him/her ...I mean, me, luck!   :)

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Great Week

I know last week was great, but honestly, it's all a blur.  I almost can't remember what happened when.  

To start, I took my first exam on Monday.  As I went through the test, I couldn't get over how many questions left me second guessing myself.  I thought for certain I did horrible.  There were too many questions that I felt unsure about.  After the test, a group of us went over to the Yard House to celebrate.  Or to drown our sorrows.  Some of us felt better about it than others.  I was just happy to have it behind me.  Turns out, I got an 89 on it.  Almost cried.  So relieved.  From here on, every week we have either an exam or a quiz.  Not even a break.  

It was another fun week in lab, preparing us for this week, as we start at the hospital.  We have our first patient on Wednesday!  Can't wait.

On Friday, we headed out to Phoenix for our cheer competition.  We had too much silly fun with a great group of cheer parents.  On Saturday, all of our teams competed their little hearts out and we came home with first place wins for all of our teams.  Not only that, but we won Grand Champions in each division with paid bids to our final competition.  It was awesome.  We were the only team there from California and we represented. It was a great trip...got to see old high school friends and my aunt came out to watch the girls, too!

We're back and getting ready for another busy week ahead.  On tap...school, first day of clinicals at the hospital, Willie Nelson, Mamma Mia and a cheer competition at Universal Studios.  More fun.  :)

And for now, I'm so sleepy I can barely keep my eyes open.  Nighty night. 

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Things That Made Me Smile This Week....

Things that made me smile this past week (in no particular order):

Perfect, beautiful, 85 degree days in February.

Chandler's severe post-surgery sore throat FINALLY going away.  

Driving to San Diego in two hours, free of traffic, with overcast and drizzly skies.  And my Starbucks.

Watching Rylee compete.

Watching Rylee sleep in the car.

Getting a text from Chandler telling me to come home sooner.

Getting my lab skill test over with after fretting over it for so long and getting an "A" on it.  

Chandler announcing that she wants to make dinner for us this week.  

Chandler shopping for her dinner menu.

Seeing that I have over 1000 page views on my blog. (wow--I think that's alot!)

Completing my 4th week of school.

And on that note....as intense as it is, I love it.  My classmates are becoming like a second family.  I like the fact that my study group (all whom I adore) is not in my clinical group...I love being able to connect with more than just the 5 of us.  There are so many different personalities and stories between all of us.  We started off as a group of 30 and we are down to 29 after the 3rd week.  There was a lot of stress and anxiety going on in class this week...I heard someone say they thought they were going to throw up.  Some cried.  There was a lot of worried faces.  But, we all made it through.  

We had our first quiz and I got a B.  I hate that.  But, I suppose it's better than a C.  And our first real exam is Monday.  I feel a total sense of calm about it right now.  Another thing to smile about.  

Friday, February 17, 2012

Writing Our Stories

Two blog posts in 24 hours.  

This morning, I was reading an article about a mom and her making memories with her kids.  I often sit and think about what memories my kids will have...and what part I play in creating these memories.  A blog that I read regularly is by a mom who often refers to herself as writing her kids stories...their story that they will pass on.  It is both inspiring to me and at the same time, makes me question if I have done enough with my own kids.

When looking back at my own childhood, my most significant memories are of the house that I grew up in.  When I was 5, we moved into the house that I would live in until I went to college.  It was a pretty unique house on a cool piece of property.  Our house had 5 bedrooms and 5 baths.  Four of those bedrooms were on one side of the house and the other was off the kitchen and laundry area...it was "the maid's room."  We had a live-in maid.  She only did a small amount of cooking, but was mainly there to do the cleaning and laundry.  It might sound like we were a bit spoiled, but really we were not, I can assure you.  (So what if I never learned how to change the vacuum bag or knew that the bottom of a toaster opens up and that's how you clean it out...I learned that in college...!)  

Anyway, growing up, I spent lots of time outside.  I have to describe our property...our driveway completely encircled our house.  We parked in the back.  We didn't have a garage.  In fact, the garage had been finished out and was our "playroom."  In the front and to the side of our house, we had an official flagpole.  There was a pomegranate tree/bush right beside it.  We had a huge yard where I would often tumble.  At the side of our house, we had a huge rose garden.  One that I wished I had more appreciation for.  My mom would cut roses from there and I can remember taking them to teachers at school sometimes.  Before we put our pool in, we had a huge backyard with 3 big trees.  One was a great big weeping willow.  And we had red roses along the whole back wall that encircled our yard.  

Next to where we parked our cars, there was a built-in basketball hoop.  Behind our driveway, there was a staircase that led down to a play area.  There was a slide and a swingset.  To the side of this, was more area that extended the whole length behind our house. All of this was up atop a cliff and we overlooked houses and the street below.  Our elementary school was down below us and we used to walk to school using the desert trail behind our house.  I used to be so scared of the snakes we would see sometimes. 

We lived in a cul-de-sac.  In the center of the cul-de-sac was a desert landscaped circle that was filled with rocks, cactus and plants.  It was bordered by large rocks...large enough to be able to walk along each one.  I used to "play house" inside this circle.  

Our neighbors who lived next door, across the street and down the street remained the same for as long as we lived there.  Times were a bit different then, but people didn't just buy a new house every few years.  Davy L, the boy across the street, used to hold the "Miss Twin Hills Beauty Pageant."  We used to go to Mimi Ivey's house and jump on her built-in trampoline.  I used to grab the umbrella and go walk in the rain.  I made mud pies along the white block wall behind our rose bushes.  My neighbor, Robert and his brother, made a high jump set and we used to practice in his back yard. 

Our kids have never spent a whole lot of time outside.  Sure, they've spent time swimming and jumping on the trampoline, but never really spent time exploring and playing in the neighborhood.  Times have changed, I know...no one feels comfortable having your kids just disappear for a few hours outside to go play.  

I have written before about wondering what my kids will remember about their childhood and what memories they will have to pass on.  Have I spent enough time with them doing fun stuff?  I can remember helping my mom in the kitchen.  I can remember her teaching me to crotchet.  She came to my gymnastics meets and to watch me cheer at football games.  I can remember listening to Beatles music, going to the ballet, going to see musicals, eating nice dinners, going to the racetrack every weekend.  Being with family. 

I pray it's the more fun things we did that my girls remember (and not so much the times when I lost my patience or was too tired to do something).  I hope they have a good story behind them.  

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Cry Baby

This week...make that the last two weeks...all I have I wanted to do is cry.  One would think I was PMSing, but nope, I wasn't.  That feeling like you are about to sneeze...you can feel that tickle, you can feel it coming, but then you just don't sneeze.  That's how all of last week was for me...I could feel myself on the brink, about to burst into tears, but each time, I sucked it up.  Pulled myself together.  Didn't let myself breakdown. 

So what was getting to me?  Besides school and the pressure of perfecting all these skills and getting the hang of all of it?  When I think about it rationally, I know that I should not be freaking out, but I am.  I know in time, it will all come.  But, the doubts are still there.  About twice during class, I have thought, "WTF am I doing here?  I can't possibly do this."  I quickly dismiss this thought, though.  I know I can do this and I am going to love it.  I have an amazing support system at school and we are all helping each other get through this!

Craig's dad had surgery last week.  There's stress and worry about that and the waiting of the results of the biopsy.  One of my kids was accused along with another cheerleader of "bullying" other kids at school.  For real?  She's 60 pounds soaking wet and looks and sounds like she's 6!  Yep, she's really scary and threatening.  Still waiting to see what the recourse is for this...waiting to see if there will be an apology or what...because it never happened. 

Over the weekend, there was more studying and having Chandler's surgery hanging over my head.  Knowing that I would only be able to be with her for a very short time at the hospital because I cannot miss much of my clinical class...it made me sick.  I'm her mom...I want to be there for her through it all...(I ended up being able to see her in recovery before I had to run to school.  :)  )

And finally it came to a head for me on Sunday.  In the morning, I got a touching facebook message that made me cry.  And then I watched "The Notebook" that made me cry more than a couple of times.  And then there were the Grammys.  Waterworks again. 
On Tuesday, it was more of the same.  A long, but fun day at school (it was Valentine's Day, after all), culminated with a not-so-romantic ending.  I finally had it.  Kinda cried like a little baby and thank goodness for some amazing friends that could relate and were there for me.  Which made me want to cry more. 

I thought I was over it.  But, then I talked to my dad last night.  I don't have to say much for him to know just what to say to me.  He's my biggest cheerleader right now.  I am so grateful.  It made me cry again.

One big cry baby.  A good cry feels good every once in awhile, but I think it's time for me to kick myself in the butt and start working out again and release some of this another way...ya think? 

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Week 2

It was a good second week...long days but learning a lot.  It's nerve-racking to get some of these skills down.  Just takes lots of practice.  And even more practice.  In 4 short weeks we will have our first real patients in the hospital.  Yikes.  They say "fake it til you make it"...that's all great, but hell, what if I fake it so much that I miss something??

Our first exam covers 50 chapters.  50.  OMG.

I love the friendships that we are establishing.  We're all experiencing the same stress, the same anxiety and the same excitement.  We are all freaking out together and laughing together at the same time.  I love it.

Craig's dad had a tumor removed from his bladder this week.  He came through the surgery great and now we just wait for the pathology results.  The doctor seems to be optimistic.  

And Chandler's doctor recommends surgery to straighten her nose out.  It is scheduled for Wednesday.  Everything that goes along with her having this surgery is bothering me....

Last night, it occurred to me that it was the first Friday night, since school started that we were all home together.  In fact, it was the first weekday night in forever.  Monday through Thursday nights we all get home at different times...the girls have cheer and don't get home until after either 7:30 or 8:30 and Friday nights have been either football games or basketball games.  Or Craig has worked.  Last night, we had nothing!  Chandler's boyfriend (I'll call him "A") came over, I made dinner, we watched a movie.  It was a fun night and it made me a happy girl.

Off to read, study and practice.   Happy Weekend!

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Just a Quick One

Just wrapped up a super crazy weekend of cheer.  10 hour days on Saturday and Sunday.  We have a love/hate relationship with this competition in that we love it, because there are some of the best teams that come out and compete--they are so fun to watch and it gives us the opportunity to really step up our game.  At the same time, it's totally chaotic with tons of people, two competition stages and just lots going on.  Not to mention that this always falls on Super Bowl Sunday...WTH?  I had major mixed emotions this weekend...excited for Rylee who competes on three teams now and sad for Chandler who didn't compete at all.  All in all, it was fun, but glad it's o.v.e.r.

Laundry didn't get done and neither did grocery shopping for the week.  It will be another week of winging it...

One of my favorite things of the weekend....one of the girls on one of our teams came up to me late today...here's how the conversation went:

Melanie:  Are you Rylee's mom?
Me:  Yes
Melanie:  Oh...you don't  look like it?
Me:  I don't?  Why not?
Melanie:  You look like you're 23. 
Me:   Aw, Melanie, you are my new favorite cheerleader!  :)

Thanks Melanie.  I no longer remember the menopause question that someone asked me about earlier this week. 

Have a great week!

Friday, February 3, 2012

The First Week

Well, week 1 is done!  It started off scary and overwhelming and total fish out of water feeling.  The reading requirement is crazy.  But, by the end of the week, I couldn't help but feel a little more at ease.  Everything we did this week in lab made the reading make sense. I'm not gonna get too comfortable, though....

Labs were super long days, but this week we learned how to give a bed bath (anyone want to help give me some practice?), change a bed with a patient in it, how to put a patient on a bed pan (yikes...) and how to flush a g-tube.  And some other stuff..  All fun, fun.  It's gonna be tons of work, but lots of fun, I know.  My classmates are great and we know we are all in the same boat and have each other's backs.  Although, I had one classmate actually ask me if I had started menopause, yet!!! Are you serious?  AND, she was older than me!!  So much for feeling and acting like I'm 29...you mean I don't look like it?  That sort of bursted my little bubble.  And by the way, the answer to that is a big fat NO.  No, I have not started menopause, yet.  :(

Wednesday night, I dropped the girls off at cheer and came home so that I could have a good solid 3 hours to do homework.  About 40 minutes into it, I get a call from the cheer gym...Chandler had been hit and they were nothing short of certain her nose was broken.  Ugh....a little bit of blood and some pain, but what made her cry the most was when she saw her face.  Poor kid.  Oh...and sister Rylee..she got pretty emotional for her sister, as well. 

I get to the gym and I can immediately see where she's been hit.  We get in the car and as we're driving I kind of joke and say..."Well, maybe we can go catch the basketball game"  (it's the last home game of the season and she was missing it because of her other cheer practice...and it was senior night and her boyfriend who plays is a senior...)...I was pretty shocked that she perked up and said yes,she wanted to go...ice on her nose, tear-streaked face and she wanted to go.  I was so proud of her.  So off to the game we went. 

Speaking of her boyfriend, I haven't mentioned him (it's only been a few weeks or so).  I'm not going to lie...we really like him.  He's got manners, he's nice, he's funny, he's smart, he's athletic.  He's cute, too.  They're pretty cute together.  And that's all I'll say on that one. 

Anyway, got Chandler's nose checked out and the ENT is more than certain her nose is broken and said don't bother with an xray.  Wants to see her in a week after the swelling subsides and is saying she will likely need surgery.  Total bummer.  He did say she could compete this weekend, since the damage was already done.  But, after tonight's practice, she made the decision to not compete...too worried about getting hit again.  It already hurts...can't imagine being  bumped again, even slightly.  I don't blame her one bit.  Cheerleading...it IS  a contact sport. 

So, tomorrow we go to our biggest competition of the year...it's huge and there are some amazing teams.  Rylee is now on a third team, so she will be a crazy girl this weekend.  I am sooo bummed for Chandler.  Makes me so sad. 

So, finally my chapter outlining is done for school and I can get myself to bed.  My plan is to read between teams  competing tomorrow (hmmm...I wonder if I can really make myself do that....).

Happy Weekend everyone!