Friday, September 29, 2006
I Got My iPod
I am so excited. I finally got my iPod. Not only that, I got the one I wanted, the 30gb black ipod with the full color screen and everything. I am not quite sure how to work everything, but I will figure it out. I downloaded the Mandy Patinkin album I bought a couple of days ago. I am not looking forward to converting my CD collection, but it will be worth it when it is done.
Well, I have to go to bed now. I have my first night of orientation in the PICU tonight, so I need to be rested.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Rest In Peace
I woke this morning to the news that Steve Irwin had died. My first thoughts were of a vibrant, full of life man; it was inconceivable that he could so suddenly be gone. My second thoughts were for his wife and children who have lost a husband and father.
In our house, Steve Irwin was a god. My Olivia adored him, she loves watching him on Animal Planet. She would have only been too happy to be packed up in a box and shipped off to the Australia Zoo. We tried to be VERY careful about not having her see any episodes with Bindi because it would all be over for her. Of course, she saw Bindi in spite of our best efforts. You should have seen her eyes.
I can't even begin to imagine the pain and loss that is being experienced by those who love him. By all accounts, he was a wonderful husband and a very involved father, my sympathies lie with Terri, Bindi, and Bob this morning, as well as his friends and colleagues.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Long Time, No Blog
Well, I have been off my blog for a while, sorry everyone.
I am SURE everyone is DYING to hear about my job. Right? Of course you are.
Well, I didn't get the Assistant Nurse Manager position, but that is okay because they chose a wonderful nurse for the position. I probably would have hired her if it had been my decision. Of course, I still think I would have been an awesome nurse for the job, but I have no hard feelings at all.
So, that left me in a situation of choosing the ER or the PICU. The interview in the PICU went wonderfully. I was a little disappointed in the interview in the ER because the manager wasn't available, she was in another meeting. One of the assistant managers interviewed me. This was the only thing I really had a problem with, I figure if you set up an interview, you don't set up a meeting at the same time. If it is unavoidable (say HER boss set up this meeting) then she should have called to reschedule or ask if one of her assistant managers could do the interview. I would have a hard time accepting a job on a unit where I had never talked with the manager.
However, that being said, I LOVED the ER, it looked really cool. It would be an exciting, dynamic place to work. The same could be said for the PICU as well.
When all was said and done, I chose the PICU. They had the schedule I needed available, the option in the ER wasn't even CLOSE to what I wanted. Also, the manager thing did push me over a lot. In the PICU, I interviewed with the Manager and one of the Assistant Managers. The Manager herself took me on a tour of the PICU and even offered to let me talk with the staff if I wanted. She had HR offer me the job very soon after my interview and even called me back and answered a question within a day of returning from her vacation.
Managers are a major issue for me. Especially since I am leaving the best manager I have ever worked for in my entire career. My current Manager has been a gift from Heaven over the last 20 months. I can't even begin to describe how wonderful she is and how much she has done for me.
On to other, more interesting issues. Sam started pre-K and promptly decided he hated it. He was very surprised on the way home from his first day when I said something about going back the next day. He was under the impression he only had to go once and he was done. He is now in his third week and is adjusting much better. I think he understands now, that while this is a major change in routine, it is still a routine, just a new one. He doesn't cope well with change at all, he is worse than the most crusty-set-in-her-ways-nurse I have ever met. (Ask Thomas about nurses and change...LOL)
Olivia is now three and is very angry that she can't go to school. She insists that SHE is BIG and she needs to go to school with the kids. She has a hard time with the fact that her brother can go and she can't. Of course, we made her happy today, we bought her a tiger family. A Daddy who is an orange tiger, a Mama who is a white tiger, and a Baby who is also white. This is her new tiger family and she loves them. These animals are awesome, they come from Target and are really cool and well made. Considering what the three cost, they should be nice. Worth every penny based on the look on her face.
Sofia is scooting around everywhere and has eight teeth in her mouth. She is HUGE. She is way off the growth charts. At 7 1/2 months she weighed 24 pounds, but since she is very tall, and everything was proportionate, the doc was happy.
Drew is now in high school and involved with Army JROTC. He comes home in pain every night with all the physical activity for ROTC and PE. I think it is good for him, and he agrees. He just wishes he wouldn't be so uncomfortable, but it will pass.
Well, I am exhausted and I need to go to bed. Have a good night.
I am SURE everyone is DYING to hear about my job. Right? Of course you are.
Well, I didn't get the Assistant Nurse Manager position, but that is okay because they chose a wonderful nurse for the position. I probably would have hired her if it had been my decision. Of course, I still think I would have been an awesome nurse for the job, but I have no hard feelings at all.
So, that left me in a situation of choosing the ER or the PICU. The interview in the PICU went wonderfully. I was a little disappointed in the interview in the ER because the manager wasn't available, she was in another meeting. One of the assistant managers interviewed me. This was the only thing I really had a problem with, I figure if you set up an interview, you don't set up a meeting at the same time. If it is unavoidable (say HER boss set up this meeting) then she should have called to reschedule or ask if one of her assistant managers could do the interview. I would have a hard time accepting a job on a unit where I had never talked with the manager.
However, that being said, I LOVED the ER, it looked really cool. It would be an exciting, dynamic place to work. The same could be said for the PICU as well.
When all was said and done, I chose the PICU. They had the schedule I needed available, the option in the ER wasn't even CLOSE to what I wanted. Also, the manager thing did push me over a lot. In the PICU, I interviewed with the Manager and one of the Assistant Managers. The Manager herself took me on a tour of the PICU and even offered to let me talk with the staff if I wanted. She had HR offer me the job very soon after my interview and even called me back and answered a question within a day of returning from her vacation.
Managers are a major issue for me. Especially since I am leaving the best manager I have ever worked for in my entire career. My current Manager has been a gift from Heaven over the last 20 months. I can't even begin to describe how wonderful she is and how much she has done for me.
On to other, more interesting issues. Sam started pre-K and promptly decided he hated it. He was very surprised on the way home from his first day when I said something about going back the next day. He was under the impression he only had to go once and he was done. He is now in his third week and is adjusting much better. I think he understands now, that while this is a major change in routine, it is still a routine, just a new one. He doesn't cope well with change at all, he is worse than the most crusty-set-in-her-ways-nurse I have ever met. (Ask Thomas about nurses and change...LOL)
Olivia is now three and is very angry that she can't go to school. She insists that SHE is BIG and she needs to go to school with the kids. She has a hard time with the fact that her brother can go and she can't. Of course, we made her happy today, we bought her a tiger family. A Daddy who is an orange tiger, a Mama who is a white tiger, and a Baby who is also white. This is her new tiger family and she loves them. These animals are awesome, they come from Target and are really cool and well made. Considering what the three cost, they should be nice. Worth every penny based on the look on her face.
Sofia is scooting around everywhere and has eight teeth in her mouth. She is HUGE. She is way off the growth charts. At 7 1/2 months she weighed 24 pounds, but since she is very tall, and everything was proportionate, the doc was happy.
Drew is now in high school and involved with Army JROTC. He comes home in pain every night with all the physical activity for ROTC and PE. I think it is good for him, and he agrees. He just wishes he wouldn't be so uncomfortable, but it will pass.
Well, I am exhausted and I need to go to bed. Have a good night.
Monday, July 31, 2006
Peace
Thomas and I had a talk this morning about peace. World peace, and personal peace. I realize that the only type of peace I have any real control over is my own. I realize that I am very lucky, I have a wonderful husband, family, friends, and career. Of course, everything is not perfect, I don't think it ever can be as we are not perfect.
When thinking what I would like to have a more "perfect" life, I came up with the fact that I want and need more girlfriends. I can work on that, and I am working on that, so this is not too big a deal.
To bring more peace to my life, I would need to heal a broken relationship. I have gotten to the point where I would allow the relationship to heal if the other individual would just pick up the phone. This is a situation where I feel I was really wronged, but I have accepted the fact that I won't ever receive an apology, that the other person just isn't capable of doing that. I think to make things more peaceful, you have to accept people where they are, limitations and all. I do realize that I am not yet at a point where I can pick up the phone and make that phone call, maybe because I am the one who last made a call, back in April of 2004. That phone call was never returned and I guess I am still waiting. There has been communication of sorts, via email. First it was friendly, then it turned nasty. The nastiness was not on my part, which is why I am still not quite ready to make the first move.
I have done a lot to move forward though. I have moved to the point where I would not require an apology, which is huge. This is significant movement on my part and it has brought me some measure of peace.
I don't understand why people won't own their mistakes, and do what they can to fix them. God always wants us to right any wrong we have committed, and I try hard to do this. Not everyone does though, even those who claim God in every aspect of their lives, that is hugely hypocritical to me.
Of course, the person I am in "conflict" with doesn't claim God at all, as far as I know. That may be some of the problem.
Oh well, I am rambling now. I will end here, if anyone has anything helpful to add, please do so.
When thinking what I would like to have a more "perfect" life, I came up with the fact that I want and need more girlfriends. I can work on that, and I am working on that, so this is not too big a deal.
To bring more peace to my life, I would need to heal a broken relationship. I have gotten to the point where I would allow the relationship to heal if the other individual would just pick up the phone. This is a situation where I feel I was really wronged, but I have accepted the fact that I won't ever receive an apology, that the other person just isn't capable of doing that. I think to make things more peaceful, you have to accept people where they are, limitations and all. I do realize that I am not yet at a point where I can pick up the phone and make that phone call, maybe because I am the one who last made a call, back in April of 2004. That phone call was never returned and I guess I am still waiting. There has been communication of sorts, via email. First it was friendly, then it turned nasty. The nastiness was not on my part, which is why I am still not quite ready to make the first move.
I have done a lot to move forward though. I have moved to the point where I would not require an apology, which is huge. This is significant movement on my part and it has brought me some measure of peace.
I don't understand why people won't own their mistakes, and do what they can to fix them. God always wants us to right any wrong we have committed, and I try hard to do this. Not everyone does though, even those who claim God in every aspect of their lives, that is hugely hypocritical to me.
Of course, the person I am in "conflict" with doesn't claim God at all, as far as I know. That may be some of the problem.
Oh well, I am rambling now. I will end here, if anyone has anything helpful to add, please do so.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Job Update....Again
Okay, so I did get very tired of waiting for a call about my job application, so I submitted more applications. I submitted an application to the PICU and to the ER, both at the same hospital where I currently work. I realized, that while I really want the Assistant Nurse Manager position, I really needed a change even if I didn't get the job that was my first choice.
So, now I have applied for three jobs, and these three jobs require a total of five interviews. One interview apiece for the ER and PICU. Three interviews for the Assistant Manager position; one with the management team, one with the director, and one with the staff. So far, I have completed all three interviews for the Assistant Manager position, the final one was yesterday. I interviewed for the PICU last week and I interview for the ER next Tuesday.
I have been offered the position in the PICU, but thankfully, I don't have to make a decision quite yet. I spoke with the recruiter who assured me that I can finish my interview process and wait for decisions/offers before I accept or decline any position.
Next Tuesday after my interview I have a staff meeting with my current department. We are meeting our new director at this meeting. Our manager is staying the same, but there is a new director. I am also curious if the changes within my department might not allow me to stay where I am but take on the new responsibilities I am desiring. I was promoted this spring, but the only thing I have seen with the promotion thus far is the salary increase. The money is nice, but I did the required work for the promotion because I wanted to have the increased/different responsibilities this would allow. However, this has never happened. I am doing the same thing I was doing before my promotion, I am just being paid more. As I said, the money is nice, but not the only thing.
I guess I am saying, that I need personal and professional satisfaction out of my career, not just a paycheck. I require constant challenges and new learning experiences. Stagnation is the death of a job for me, but I like where I work, so I am looking internally for the new challenges instead of looking externally. This is very different from where I have been in the past, I always looked externally. I would hope this shows growth on my part.
Well, enough for today. I will update as news comes available.
So, now I have applied for three jobs, and these three jobs require a total of five interviews. One interview apiece for the ER and PICU. Three interviews for the Assistant Manager position; one with the management team, one with the director, and one with the staff. So far, I have completed all three interviews for the Assistant Manager position, the final one was yesterday. I interviewed for the PICU last week and I interview for the ER next Tuesday.
I have been offered the position in the PICU, but thankfully, I don't have to make a decision quite yet. I spoke with the recruiter who assured me that I can finish my interview process and wait for decisions/offers before I accept or decline any position.
Next Tuesday after my interview I have a staff meeting with my current department. We are meeting our new director at this meeting. Our manager is staying the same, but there is a new director. I am also curious if the changes within my department might not allow me to stay where I am but take on the new responsibilities I am desiring. I was promoted this spring, but the only thing I have seen with the promotion thus far is the salary increase. The money is nice, but I did the required work for the promotion because I wanted to have the increased/different responsibilities this would allow. However, this has never happened. I am doing the same thing I was doing before my promotion, I am just being paid more. As I said, the money is nice, but not the only thing.
I guess I am saying, that I need personal and professional satisfaction out of my career, not just a paycheck. I require constant challenges and new learning experiences. Stagnation is the death of a job for me, but I like where I work, so I am looking internally for the new challenges instead of looking externally. This is very different from where I have been in the past, I always looked externally. I would hope this shows growth on my part.
Well, enough for today. I will update as news comes available.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Job Update
Well, things are moving at a snail's pace wtih the new job that I want. The day after I applied the recruiter emailed me asking for me to update a few things on my application, as it was the same application I had put in when I was first hired. Applying is done online and the application is saved for possible use in the future.
So, I updated as asked, and then heard nothing at all. I called HR and left a message and still heard nothing. So, I applied for a couple of other positions that interest me. And then I heard back, finally. Turns out the recruiter was on vacation, so everything came to a stand still until she got back. As things stand now, my application was forwarded to the hiring manager on Monday and I should hear from her within a week or so. (Of course I am going on vacation in two weeks, but nevermind that.)
Now I am waiting again. I hate waiting. I am not very patient about things like this. Nothing gets my anxiety level up like sitting around and just waiting.
On the plus side, I have been accepted to the University of Phoenix Online to complete my BSN. That is good news, now I just have to figure out how to pay for it. I have applied for a bunch of scholarships, and I can apply for tuition reimbursement from work in October, so I may have to wait for one or the other to come through since the program is pricey. At least I have gotten accepted, which is a major step.
I will update as I have any information! Please keep saying prayers for me.
So, I updated as asked, and then heard nothing at all. I called HR and left a message and still heard nothing. So, I applied for a couple of other positions that interest me. And then I heard back, finally. Turns out the recruiter was on vacation, so everything came to a stand still until she got back. As things stand now, my application was forwarded to the hiring manager on Monday and I should hear from her within a week or so. (Of course I am going on vacation in two weeks, but nevermind that.)
Now I am waiting again. I hate waiting. I am not very patient about things like this. Nothing gets my anxiety level up like sitting around and just waiting.
On the plus side, I have been accepted to the University of Phoenix Online to complete my BSN. That is good news, now I just have to figure out how to pay for it. I have applied for a bunch of scholarships, and I can apply for tuition reimbursement from work in October, so I may have to wait for one or the other to come through since the program is pricey. At least I have gotten accepted, which is a major step.
I will update as I have any information! Please keep saying prayers for me.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
I Need Lots of Prayers
I have applied for a new job with my employer. This is an Assistant Nurse Manager position on the unit that I REALLY want to work on. My employer requires a BSN degree, or working on it, so I have also enrolled in college to complete my Bachelor's degree.
The BSN is something I have wanted to do for a while, but I have been putting it off. First I got married, then three kids have come along in rapid succession, so I have not had any problems saying "not now." However, the requirement to advance has made this a more pressing issue, so whether or not I get the job I have applied for, I will still complete my degree.
I do want this job, and I feel like I am being called to apply for it (or being led, if you prefer.) I think the fit would be awesome, but I still have to interview, and I know that at least two other nurses have applied for the position as well, one of whom currently works that unit. I am not sure WHO has applied though.
Just keep me in your prayers while I complete the admissions process for college and for my interviews that will be upcoming.
The BSN is something I have wanted to do for a while, but I have been putting it off. First I got married, then three kids have come along in rapid succession, so I have not had any problems saying "not now." However, the requirement to advance has made this a more pressing issue, so whether or not I get the job I have applied for, I will still complete my degree.
I do want this job, and I feel like I am being called to apply for it (or being led, if you prefer.) I think the fit would be awesome, but I still have to interview, and I know that at least two other nurses have applied for the position as well, one of whom currently works that unit. I am not sure WHO has applied though.
Just keep me in your prayers while I complete the admissions process for college and for my interviews that will be upcoming.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Toyota Sienna
Okay, like I said in my last post, my car had to have the transmission replaced AGAIN! Well, I took it in on Tuesday and they again provided a loaner, ie a rental from Enterprise. Last time, Enterprise gave me a little Kia Spectra, which was cool. This time, they only had one car left when I got there, and it was a 2006 Toyota Sienna. A minivan. I don't like minivans, I don't want one, I like SUVs. Or so I thought.
Let me say that this is one of the best automobiles I have EVER driven. We moved all the car seats over from the Suburban and did all of our errands in the Sienna yesterday. The cargo area holds an unbelievable amount. It is a very kid friendly auto as well. There are about a million cup holders, or maybe ten.
As a rental, this isn't the top of the line model, obviously, but it is pretty awesome. It is the middle model, not the base and not the "best." The side sliding doors and back aren't power, but that isn't a huge deal. I looked up this model on toyota.com and it is awesome all of the features and safety features. The mpg isn't bad either for a bigger auto, it is 20/27, which is SO much better than we get in the Suburban.
I think the Sienna will probably be our next auto purchase when the Sentra gets paid off, which I now have even greater incentive to pay off sooner.
A minivan, me? Who woulda thunk it?
Let me say that this is one of the best automobiles I have EVER driven. We moved all the car seats over from the Suburban and did all of our errands in the Sienna yesterday. The cargo area holds an unbelievable amount. It is a very kid friendly auto as well. There are about a million cup holders, or maybe ten.
As a rental, this isn't the top of the line model, obviously, but it is pretty awesome. It is the middle model, not the base and not the "best." The side sliding doors and back aren't power, but that isn't a huge deal. I looked up this model on toyota.com and it is awesome all of the features and safety features. The mpg isn't bad either for a bigger auto, it is 20/27, which is SO much better than we get in the Suburban.
I think the Sienna will probably be our next auto purchase when the Sentra gets paid off, which I now have even greater incentive to pay off sooner.
A minivan, me? Who woulda thunk it?
Friday, June 16, 2006
Car Craziness...
As anyone who frequents my blog knows, I just bought a car back in April (a 2004 Nissan Sentra.) I started having issues with the reverse on my stick shift immediately! Well, it is still under original warranty, thank goodness, and the dealership replaced the transmission.
I got my car back on Friday of last week. Driving to work I noticed that the transmission "whined" during acceleration when nearing highway speeds (70 mph) and I also noticed a rattling while idling. None of this had been present before the transmission was replaced. So we took the car to the dealership for an appointment at 1:00 on Tuesday. Thursday morning we FINALLY got word that the new transmission needs replacing. Some bearing (sp?) in the transmission was not lubricated properly during manufacture, so the transmission is not any good. I guess this cannot be fixed, so it has to be replaced, AGAIN.
So, I got my car back Thursday evening, as it is safe to drive. I am waiting for another call that my new transmission is ready to be put in my car. I will get ANOTHER loaner at that time.
I will keep you updated as things progress.
I got my car back on Friday of last week. Driving to work I noticed that the transmission "whined" during acceleration when nearing highway speeds (70 mph) and I also noticed a rattling while idling. None of this had been present before the transmission was replaced. So we took the car to the dealership for an appointment at 1:00 on Tuesday. Thursday morning we FINALLY got word that the new transmission needs replacing. Some bearing (sp?) in the transmission was not lubricated properly during manufacture, so the transmission is not any good. I guess this cannot be fixed, so it has to be replaced, AGAIN.
So, I got my car back Thursday evening, as it is safe to drive. I am waiting for another call that my new transmission is ready to be put in my car. I will get ANOTHER loaner at that time.
I will keep you updated as things progress.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Happy Birthday Sam!
Tomorrow is Sam's 4th birthday. We celebrated today because I work tomorrow night. We had a birthday party for him around lunch time and my friend brought her children over for cake and ice cream. It was nice and small, and he had a blast.
Tonight we had a young couple, who Thomas met while working at Chili's, over for dinner. They are expecting their first baby any time now. She is due at the beginning of July, but like most women this far along, she is ready anytime the baby makes her presence known. It was a nice day all around.
Having a lady around who is so close to having a baby brought back memories of Sam being born. We had a scare with him a couple of days before his c-section was scheduled. I had gone to Target to exchange a few things from the baby shower I had at work and I collapsed in the middle of the baby section. I did not come around until I was AT the hospital, I remember nothing of the EMS workers or of the ambulance ride. I woke up in the hospital with an IV in my hand. This was not an experience I ever want to repeat. Thankfully all my tests came back negative that were run after he was born.
He was born on the date I chose, in a nice safe environment, by a wonderful doctor. He was, and is, healthy and happy and beautiful. He is a great kid and I love him dearly. He will be starting pre-k in the fall, and can't wait. I can't believe my baby boy is going to start school. I am very blessed to have such a great son.
Happy Birthday my wonderful four year old boy.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Getting My New Car Fixed....
Well, as my regular readers know (both of you LOL,) I started having some major issues with the reverse in my new car. Well, for any new readers, my "new" car is a 2004 Nissan Sentra, so not exactly new, but definitely new for me. Thomas assured me that the issue was mine and I just needed to learn the "trick" to the reverse. I did, learn the trick that is, but it still seemed like more work than it should be, as it would always take a few tries and I could never get it in reverse immediately, which is a problem if you are looking for a parking space and pull up too far.
So, when my mom was here, we had to go up to the dealership for a few paperwork details that we had neglected, and Thomas did mention we had been having a problem. Of course, because I had been backing in and out of spaces a number of times in a short period, the reverse worked perfectly. But, Rick, the guy we talked to in repair believed us and asked us to leave the car overnight so he could test it cold. So we did, and he did, and he had issues. He said the issues were just enough to concern him, so he ordered a brand new transmission for the car and we are taking the car in tomorrow to get this new transmission put in. They are even giving us a loaner, which is necessary as I have a meeting at work tomorrow. I am not sure how long this endeavor should take, but at least I don't have to worry about a hefty bill. Since the car is still under original manufacturer warranty...and since I had a 30-day warranty from the dealership itself, this is a completely free of charge repair.
Well, I think that is all for today, I will let you know how it goes at the dealership and how the car drives after the new transmission is put in. Have a great night.
So, when my mom was here, we had to go up to the dealership for a few paperwork details that we had neglected, and Thomas did mention we had been having a problem. Of course, because I had been backing in and out of spaces a number of times in a short period, the reverse worked perfectly. But, Rick, the guy we talked to in repair believed us and asked us to leave the car overnight so he could test it cold. So we did, and he did, and he had issues. He said the issues were just enough to concern him, so he ordered a brand new transmission for the car and we are taking the car in tomorrow to get this new transmission put in. They are even giving us a loaner, which is necessary as I have a meeting at work tomorrow. I am not sure how long this endeavor should take, but at least I don't have to worry about a hefty bill. Since the car is still under original manufacturer warranty...and since I had a 30-day warranty from the dealership itself, this is a completely free of charge repair.
Well, I think that is all for today, I will let you know how it goes at the dealership and how the car drives after the new transmission is put in. Have a great night.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Busy, Busy, Busy...
I haven't blogged in a while, but we have been busy. My work schedule has been nothing short of crazy. I had to take my Pediatric Advanced Life Support class yesterday and Friday, so I had to rearrange my normal work schedule to accommodate this. My body is in total shock with the complete rearrangement of my normal sleep patterns. I haven't had a decent rest in days, but I will take some Benadryl tonight so I can sleep.
I am at a crossroads with my job right now and I am not sure what I want to do. I love my job in the float pool. I love the flexibility it allows and the versatility that is affords. I LOVE being able to work everywhere, to know people on all the floors, and to not have tunnel vision regarding nursing. However, things are very different right now, and I am not liking it at all. For me, a job my be challenging. Not crazy challenging, like working in the ER, but I like working everywhere and doing a little bit of everything. The way things are now does not allow for that very much.
Oh well, we are having a staff meeting on Tuesday, I plan to talk with my manager afterwards to share some of my frustrations. I have the greatest manager, she is awesome, which is why I have stuck things out thus far, but even the greatest manager isn't enough when I am feeling so stagnant. I either need some sort of change in the way things are in my current position, or I need to seek out another position. I was hoping my promotion would allow for a few more administrative responsibilities, but that hasn't happened...that coupled with the stagnation in my actual nursing responsibilities has made me very unhappy with work.
The other thoughts I have are related to WHERE I would work if I left the float pool. Which floor would I REALLY want to work on full time? There are a couple of place I love very much, and some I despise, and some in the middle. Obviously I wouldn't ever try to work on the floors I despise, and I wouldn't even want to work on those in the middle...but there are about three areas I love and one more I would like to work on that I can't go to in the float pool. However, I would be giving up a lot to go work on one unit and I that would be hard. I fervently hope I don't have to make any changes, but for my sanity's sake, I might.
Oh well, I am not going to stress (too much) over something that might never come to be, but I do want to have some plan laid out in my mind just in case. I will see how my talk goes on Tuesday before I borrow trouble. Just keep me in your prayers that I can appropriately discuss my concerns with my manager and that she is receptive to what I have to say. Pray that I am lead to the right path.
Have a good night.
I am at a crossroads with my job right now and I am not sure what I want to do. I love my job in the float pool. I love the flexibility it allows and the versatility that is affords. I LOVE being able to work everywhere, to know people on all the floors, and to not have tunnel vision regarding nursing. However, things are very different right now, and I am not liking it at all. For me, a job my be challenging. Not crazy challenging, like working in the ER, but I like working everywhere and doing a little bit of everything. The way things are now does not allow for that very much.
Oh well, we are having a staff meeting on Tuesday, I plan to talk with my manager afterwards to share some of my frustrations. I have the greatest manager, she is awesome, which is why I have stuck things out thus far, but even the greatest manager isn't enough when I am feeling so stagnant. I either need some sort of change in the way things are in my current position, or I need to seek out another position. I was hoping my promotion would allow for a few more administrative responsibilities, but that hasn't happened...that coupled with the stagnation in my actual nursing responsibilities has made me very unhappy with work.
The other thoughts I have are related to WHERE I would work if I left the float pool. Which floor would I REALLY want to work on full time? There are a couple of place I love very much, and some I despise, and some in the middle. Obviously I wouldn't ever try to work on the floors I despise, and I wouldn't even want to work on those in the middle...but there are about three areas I love and one more I would like to work on that I can't go to in the float pool. However, I would be giving up a lot to go work on one unit and I that would be hard. I fervently hope I don't have to make any changes, but for my sanity's sake, I might.
Oh well, I am not going to stress (too much) over something that might never come to be, but I do want to have some plan laid out in my mind just in case. I will see how my talk goes on Tuesday before I borrow trouble. Just keep me in your prayers that I can appropriately discuss my concerns with my manager and that she is receptive to what I have to say. Pray that I am lead to the right path.
Have a good night.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Mom Is On Her Way Home
Well, my mom finally made it after battling respiratory illness this month. She still isn't back to normal, but she is much better. I have encourage her to set up an appointment with her Doc when she gets home for a follow-up appointment, but I do think she is on the road to recovery.
The visit was very nice, she spoiled her grandchildren way too much, but she also babysat them one night so Thomas and I could go on a date, and that was AWESOME. It has been since our anniversary in 2005 that we have been able to go out by ourselves. It definitely made an impact on us, and we want to make sure we can go out more than once every 18 months or so. Once a month would be my ideal.
She is now working her way back to Virginia. She is staying with some friends in NC tonight and then will go home tomorrow so she can go to a James Brown concert with my brother and his girlfriend tomorrow night.
Well, that's all for now, gotta go to bed in about an hour so I can go to work tonight. My schedule is all messed up this coming week as I have a class next Friday and Saturday (daytime,) so I need to make sure I get good rest this weekend.
The visit was very nice, she spoiled her grandchildren way too much, but she also babysat them one night so Thomas and I could go on a date, and that was AWESOME. It has been since our anniversary in 2005 that we have been able to go out by ourselves. It definitely made an impact on us, and we want to make sure we can go out more than once every 18 months or so. Once a month would be my ideal.
She is now working her way back to Virginia. She is staying with some friends in NC tonight and then will go home tomorrow so she can go to a James Brown concert with my brother and his girlfriend tomorrow night.
Well, that's all for now, gotta go to bed in about an hour so I can go to work tonight. My schedule is all messed up this coming week as I have a class next Friday and Saturday (daytime,) so I need to make sure I get good rest this weekend.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Sorry For My Absence
I haven't blogged in quite a while, life has been busy and I haven't had a lot to give to blogging. My mom didn't make it down at the beginning of the month, she was very sick and almost ended up in the hospital. She is doing much better and is at her sister's in North Georgia visiting until Sunday. She is coming here on Sunday to spend a week or so with us.
I did get my promotion at work, it gave me an 8% pay increase which, based on the one pay check I have received since the increase became effective, should be very noticeable. I do have more responsibility, but not SO much more that it is overwhelming. I have set in my mind my next goals, which will require more effort to obtain, but are not at all out of reach.
The kids are growing like weeds and are enjoying the relatively mild spring we have had, they love the outdoors. Drew finishes 8th grade next Friday (the 26th) and then we have high school coming in the fall.
Well, that is all for now, hope everyone is doing well.
I did get my promotion at work, it gave me an 8% pay increase which, based on the one pay check I have received since the increase became effective, should be very noticeable. I do have more responsibility, but not SO much more that it is overwhelming. I have set in my mind my next goals, which will require more effort to obtain, but are not at all out of reach.
The kids are growing like weeds and are enjoying the relatively mild spring we have had, they love the outdoors. Drew finishes 8th grade next Friday (the 26th) and then we have high school coming in the fall.
Well, that is all for now, hope everyone is doing well.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Olivia Isn't Tired
Olivia has decided she isn't tired tonight. She was being very good, playing quietly up in her bed, so we let her come downstairs with us. She snuggled with both of us, sat on my lap and played with some of my desktop items, had a granola bar, and is watching "Justice League." Sometimes you get special treats.She took an AWESOME nap today, so that is probably why she is awake. She is being very sweet with everyone. She will probably get to sleep with Mama and Daddy...which is an extra-special treat for a little girl. Of course, watching Wonder Woman is her favorite part of the night. But she is excited about a slumber party, so I guess it is time to log off and go to bed. We are going to listen to one of the CDs from the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince book on cd, and she thinks that is cool also. Good night everyone.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Grumpy...
I am very grumpy tonight. I am not sure why, but I am. Oh well, I will try not to bite anyone's head off, though I could do so with no effort at all.
Tomorrow is going to be somewhat busy. We have to go to Target, but only a quick run in and run out. I have a HUGE phone call to make and that could be time consuming, so it may get pushed back a day or so.
Also, my "tricky" reverse on my new car is more than tricky. I spent forever trying to get the damn thing in reverse after getting off of work the other morning and never did get it into reverse. I finally put the car in neutral and let it "roll" backwards after the parking deck had emptied out some, since rolling is much slower than reverse. So, tomorrow, we are taking the car back to the dealer and having them "fix" the problem, whatever it is. We are smelling the "clutch" smell some, so I am sure the clutch probably has some problems. But, I am not sure if there are any other gear box or transmission problems, so I want it ALL checked out.
I have driven a stick shift more in my life than I have ever driven an automatic, and I have never had these kind of problems, so SOMETHING is wrong. Of course, my new car is actually used. It is two years old and has almost 32000 miles on it, so I can't swear about the ability of the former owner with driving a stick shift.
I must admit some anxiety about going back to the dealership with a problem six days after we bought the car, but they do have a guarantee which the salesman talked up quite a bit. Not only is the car still under the original Nissan warranty, but the dealership offers a 30 day money back guarantee for any used car sale. The salesman played that up, like I said, because he wanted to make sure I knew that they wouldn't sell me a car and then tell me "tough" if something happened. Of course, I didn't think I would actually NEED that piece of information. Well, I don't really think I want my money back, I just want the problem fixed quickly and without hassle!
Maybe my anxiety is related to why I am so grumpy, that would make sense. Anxiety and the fact that I am exhausted. A good night's sleep and the trip to the dealer complete will be the cure. And, I am looking forward to my mom getting here.
Look for updates on the car situation. I will name my dealership in the next few days, as a compliment or a complaint will be up to them. I hope to be able to compliment them, because they treated us VERY WELL when we were there last week, I really hope that bodes well for "service after the sale."
I hope everyone else is doing well!
Tomorrow is going to be somewhat busy. We have to go to Target, but only a quick run in and run out. I have a HUGE phone call to make and that could be time consuming, so it may get pushed back a day or so.
Also, my "tricky" reverse on my new car is more than tricky. I spent forever trying to get the damn thing in reverse after getting off of work the other morning and never did get it into reverse. I finally put the car in neutral and let it "roll" backwards after the parking deck had emptied out some, since rolling is much slower than reverse. So, tomorrow, we are taking the car back to the dealer and having them "fix" the problem, whatever it is. We are smelling the "clutch" smell some, so I am sure the clutch probably has some problems. But, I am not sure if there are any other gear box or transmission problems, so I want it ALL checked out.
I have driven a stick shift more in my life than I have ever driven an automatic, and I have never had these kind of problems, so SOMETHING is wrong. Of course, my new car is actually used. It is two years old and has almost 32000 miles on it, so I can't swear about the ability of the former owner with driving a stick shift.
I must admit some anxiety about going back to the dealership with a problem six days after we bought the car, but they do have a guarantee which the salesman talked up quite a bit. Not only is the car still under the original Nissan warranty, but the dealership offers a 30 day money back guarantee for any used car sale. The salesman played that up, like I said, because he wanted to make sure I knew that they wouldn't sell me a car and then tell me "tough" if something happened. Of course, I didn't think I would actually NEED that piece of information. Well, I don't really think I want my money back, I just want the problem fixed quickly and without hassle!
Maybe my anxiety is related to why I am so grumpy, that would make sense. Anxiety and the fact that I am exhausted. A good night's sleep and the trip to the dealer complete will be the cure. And, I am looking forward to my mom getting here.
Look for updates on the car situation. I will name my dealership in the next few days, as a compliment or a complaint will be up to them. I hope to be able to compliment them, because they treated us VERY WELL when we were there last week, I really hope that bodes well for "service after the sale."
I hope everyone else is doing well!
Friday, April 28, 2006
New Car
I love my new car. I know I said that below, but driving it to work tonight proved that to me in many ways. It was so easy to drive and manuever, both in the city and on the highway. With traffic being so bad here, I was a weensy bit worried about the stop and go with the stick shift, but it wasn't a problem at all. I was only worried because it has been so long since I drove stick, but I guess it really is one of those things you never forget.
The only challenge has been the reverse on the stick shift, there is a "trick" to get it into reverse, and of course the car manual doesn't explain that. I pretty much have it figured out now. I got it on the first try leaving home tonight, on the third try backing out of my parking space at the QuikTrip when I bought my big Diet Coke, and on the first try leaving Panera Bread tonight when I bought my dinner for work. Probably within a week I will have it completely figured out and won't remember what the problem was to begin with.
Though I hate going to the gas station at all these days, I am curious how much it will cost to fill up. It has a 13.1 gallon tank and, completely empty, at $3.00/gallon, would be $39.30. I guess the real test will be how often I have to fill up, so I am curious as to how the savings will really translate. Even at $40 per tank, I would have to fill up three times to equal the amount it would cost to fill the Suburban once with its 42 gallon tank.
Well, I should get back to work. Hope everyone is well!
The only challenge has been the reverse on the stick shift, there is a "trick" to get it into reverse, and of course the car manual doesn't explain that. I pretty much have it figured out now. I got it on the first try leaving home tonight, on the third try backing out of my parking space at the QuikTrip when I bought my big Diet Coke, and on the first try leaving Panera Bread tonight when I bought my dinner for work. Probably within a week I will have it completely figured out and won't remember what the problem was to begin with.
Though I hate going to the gas station at all these days, I am curious how much it will cost to fill up. It has a 13.1 gallon tank and, completely empty, at $3.00/gallon, would be $39.30. I guess the real test will be how often I have to fill up, so I am curious as to how the savings will really translate. Even at $40 per tank, I would have to fill up three times to equal the amount it would cost to fill the Suburban once with its 42 gallon tank.
Well, I should get back to work. Hope everyone is well!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
I Put My Money Where My Mouth Is...
Okay, so I have been moaning and complaining along with everyone else about the current state of affairs with gas prices. Unfortunately, my pain has been increased because we have a Chevy Suburban. A week and a half ago it cost $108 to fill up from a very empty tank, and gas is MUCH higher now than it was then. I saw $2.85 and $2.95 today for regular unleaded. I think I paid in the $2.50 range last time. I have sort of justified this because we are a one car family, but even still, it has been getting really hard to swallow. Then, over the weekend, I read that gas prices will probably head to the $4.00 range this summer. I can't take $170 every two weeks for GAS. There is something wrong with that. It would be different I travelled in my job, but I don't. Of course, I do travel 25-30 miles one way to work, so I travel 150+ miles each week to and from work.
So, we decided to go car shopping. We bought a 2004 Nissan Sentra. It is a dream to drive. It has only two things that I would change, but they aren't important enough for me not to have bought this car. It is white and doesn't have cruise control, but that is all I would change. It is a 5 speed stick-shift, has a CD player, is four door, and has unbelievable pick up and go! The gas mileage is 28/35, which is SO much better than the Suburban. I can't wait to drive it to work and put some distance driving on it. The picture was taken in my driveway tonight.
So, now I have my new little car. Of course, I have a car payment, but my gas consumption is going to go way down, and I have a pretty new car with good safety features. Anyone else have ideas to help with the gas situation.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Michael
Michael is a young man I have taken care of a number of times at work. I have come to love Michael, he is a sweet boy, but at his age he would probably cringe to hear me say that. Michael is dying. There is no cure for Michael's condition(s). It is cruel to watch a child die.
Michael is not ready to accept the fact that he will not live. When talking about his prognosis, we are talking months, not years, not even one year. Michael comes from a dysfunctional home life. He prefers being in the hospital. He told me once that he didn't want to go home. However, I think part of Michael's difficulty in letting go is because none of his family has given him "permission" to die.
I would like to ask anyone reading this to pray for Michael, and his family. I will miss Michael very much when he is gone, as he is so sweet and his smile could melt the hardest of hearts. However, he lives in constant pain, and it would be selfish to ask that he continue in pain just because I want to see his smile.
Please pray for this sweet boy with the amazing smile. Please pray that he is able to go home to our Lord in peace and that he suffers as little as possible.
Michael is not ready to accept the fact that he will not live. When talking about his prognosis, we are talking months, not years, not even one year. Michael comes from a dysfunctional home life. He prefers being in the hospital. He told me once that he didn't want to go home. However, I think part of Michael's difficulty in letting go is because none of his family has given him "permission" to die.
I would like to ask anyone reading this to pray for Michael, and his family. I will miss Michael very much when he is gone, as he is so sweet and his smile could melt the hardest of hearts. However, he lives in constant pain, and it would be selfish to ask that he continue in pain just because I want to see his smile.
Please pray for this sweet boy with the amazing smile. Please pray that he is able to go home to our Lord in peace and that he suffers as little as possible.
