I've had a rough day. Students...meetings....grandma. I'm almost too exhausted to post. I just wanted to share with you a site that Spiderman found at work yesterday( so glad he's being productive at work) for a Zombie dating service. It's hysterical!
I've got to go finish student evaluations...
Oh, and don't forget to leave a comment on my 100th post to win a $25 Target gift card. I'll announce the winner tomorrow!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
A Rant on Healthcare
I'm sorry, but this is going to be a rant.
I've said this before, I work in health care. A hospital to be more exact. I lovingly call it the Chamber of Horrors, (I also call it that because I don't want to be fired for my blog) but seriously, we're not THAT bad of a hospital. I wouldn't have worked there for 9 years if it was a bad hospital. Just like most people I get frustrated by my job. I am good at my job. Every day I have to deal with patients who aren't the most cooperative or nice even. I am always pleasant and accommodating to them and their families. (I may bitch up a storm to my husband when I get home, but at work I'm pleasant) I'm nice even if I don't want to be, because THATS.MY.JOB. I get paid to help these people. It doesn't matter how I feel, or how they act. They need my expertise and help and I get paid to give it to them. It's my responsibility to provide good care.
And I do.
Sometimes it's painful, but I do.
Because of this, I absolutely CAN NOT STAND receiving poor care or customer service. I cannot handle if check out ladies, or waiters are rude because this. is. their. job. I especially will not tolerate when I receive poor health care. Over the weekend my grandmother had to be admitted to the hospital. My hospital. She has received really good care from the aides and nurses and general staff. They were polite and helpful to my grandmother (aside from one small choking incident, but that's a whole other story) Until today. Today she had a nurse that I wanted to kill. I know this nurse from a different angle, as a coworker. I can't stand her, but I figured maybe she's different with her patients. Maybe she too, is good at her job.
Now, my grandmother is not the easiest of patients. She gets confused, wants things her way, and can be a general pain in the ass at times. But she is still a patient. She has always had night terrors which have been made worse because she is out of her environment. She doesn't often leave her house and when she does, she has some anxiety. She'd had a rough night yesterday night and my mother called to see how her night was last night. All she was met with was a nurse who was rude and unhelpful.
I worked all day and would go peek in for a short visit during my breaks today. My grandmother was NOT happy with her nurse who she said was basically ignoring her. There was some talk about her being discharged and I wondered if it would be at a time that I could just drive her home on my way home. I checked with her nurse. Mind you, I didn't say who I was in relation to the patient. All I said was that the patient in room ten wondered if she was going to be discharged today. This nurse then proceeds to tell me that she "talked to the daughter, who didn't seem to know anything" and continues to talk shit about my mother. To me. Now, this is unprofessional behavior to begin with. It was completely appalling that she said it to ME! I waited until she was done and calmly said. "That's my mother you're talking about. I'm the patient's granddaughter." Any normal person would be mortified. This bitch was not. She got even bigger attitude. I'm going to have her written up.
I am SO mad that my grandmother received this poor care. Even more so I'm embarrassed that it happened in MY hospital.
This is unacceptable.
I've said this before, I work in health care. A hospital to be more exact. I lovingly call it the Chamber of Horrors, (I also call it that because I don't want to be fired for my blog) but seriously, we're not THAT bad of a hospital. I wouldn't have worked there for 9 years if it was a bad hospital. Just like most people I get frustrated by my job. I am good at my job. Every day I have to deal with patients who aren't the most cooperative or nice even. I am always pleasant and accommodating to them and their families. (I may bitch up a storm to my husband when I get home, but at work I'm pleasant) I'm nice even if I don't want to be, because THATS.MY.JOB. I get paid to help these people. It doesn't matter how I feel, or how they act. They need my expertise and help and I get paid to give it to them. It's my responsibility to provide good care.
And I do.
Sometimes it's painful, but I do.
Because of this, I absolutely CAN NOT STAND receiving poor care or customer service. I cannot handle if check out ladies, or waiters are rude because this. is. their. job. I especially will not tolerate when I receive poor health care. Over the weekend my grandmother had to be admitted to the hospital. My hospital. She has received really good care from the aides and nurses and general staff. They were polite and helpful to my grandmother (aside from one small choking incident, but that's a whole other story) Until today. Today she had a nurse that I wanted to kill. I know this nurse from a different angle, as a coworker. I can't stand her, but I figured maybe she's different with her patients. Maybe she too, is good at her job.
Now, my grandmother is not the easiest of patients. She gets confused, wants things her way, and can be a general pain in the ass at times. But she is still a patient. She has always had night terrors which have been made worse because she is out of her environment. She doesn't often leave her house and when she does, she has some anxiety. She'd had a rough night yesterday night and my mother called to see how her night was last night. All she was met with was a nurse who was rude and unhelpful.
I worked all day and would go peek in for a short visit during my breaks today. My grandmother was NOT happy with her nurse who she said was basically ignoring her. There was some talk about her being discharged and I wondered if it would be at a time that I could just drive her home on my way home. I checked with her nurse. Mind you, I didn't say who I was in relation to the patient. All I said was that the patient in room ten wondered if she was going to be discharged today. This nurse then proceeds to tell me that she "talked to the daughter, who didn't seem to know anything" and continues to talk shit about my mother. To me. Now, this is unprofessional behavior to begin with. It was completely appalling that she said it to ME! I waited until she was done and calmly said. "That's my mother you're talking about. I'm the patient's granddaughter." Any normal person would be mortified. This bitch was not. She got even bigger attitude. I'm going to have her written up.
I am SO mad that my grandmother received this poor care. Even more so I'm embarrassed that it happened in MY hospital.
This is unacceptable.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Sweet Tooth
Any one who knows me knows that I have a sweet tooth. Well, actually it's more of a mouth full of sweet teeth. I LOVE all things sweet. Cake, cookies, pies, brownies, ice cream and finally...candy. I have so many candies that I like, that I can't even classify one as my favorite. I would say that anything chocolate takes the lead, but I still enjoy a non chocolate sweet too. It totally depends on my mood. Most of the time chocolate does the trick, but there are times that I crave a nice Sweet Tart or Hot Tamale, or Gummi Bear. I really love the big chewy Sweet Tarts.
This leads me to my story...
On grocery day my mother would often get the three of us candy from the 3 for $1 bin. Sometimes it was Nestle crunch bars or Butterfingers, sometimes it was chewy Sweet Tarts. My younger sister was in the habit of taking a bite and leaving them out. On one of these grocery days I walked into our bathroom and saw a pink chewy sweet tart sitting on the side of the sink closest to me. I was about 14/15 years old. I thought..."aha! She snoozes she loses", snatched up her tart and popped it into my mouth in one bite.
It was not a Sweet Tart.
It was soap.
I'm an idiot. Then I had to explain where my mother's new decorative soap went. I guess you could say it was my punishment for greedily eating my sister's "candy". Now if I see candy laying out I inspect it more carefully. I learned my lesson.
This leads me to my story...
On grocery day my mother would often get the three of us candy from the 3 for $1 bin. Sometimes it was Nestle crunch bars or Butterfingers, sometimes it was chewy Sweet Tarts. My younger sister was in the habit of taking a bite and leaving them out. On one of these grocery days I walked into our bathroom and saw a pink chewy sweet tart sitting on the side of the sink closest to me. I was about 14/15 years old. I thought..."aha! She snoozes she loses", snatched up her tart and popped it into my mouth in one bite.
It was not a Sweet Tart.
It was soap.
I'm an idiot. Then I had to explain where my mother's new decorative soap went. I guess you could say it was my punishment for greedily eating my sister's "candy". Now if I see candy laying out I inspect it more carefully. I learned my lesson.
Monday, July 28, 2008
On Being A Better Person
Sometimes I really don't like myself.
I have a coworker that really brings out the worst in me. He is about my age and has been a therapist for about as long as I have. He spent most of his career at a different hospital. I don't know why, or what it is about him. He's really not a bad guy. He's a little hyper and bossy and somewhat condescending. As an eldest child I know that I have bossy tendencies. All us firstborns do. I try really hard to keep it under control. With my co-worker, however, I can't help myself. When he starts making know-it-all comments or tries to tell me what to do, it just bristles something inside me. I get all show-offy and I have to one-up him...to knock him down a peg. I don't like who I become when he's around. He makes me feel really competitive. I don't know why, we're not in competition with each other. We're peers.
Today I made a conscious effort to not let him get to me. I think it worked. Hopefully, I can keep it up.
I don't want to be a snot. I want to be a better person.
I have a coworker that really brings out the worst in me. He is about my age and has been a therapist for about as long as I have. He spent most of his career at a different hospital. I don't know why, or what it is about him. He's really not a bad guy. He's a little hyper and bossy and somewhat condescending. As an eldest child I know that I have bossy tendencies. All us firstborns do. I try really hard to keep it under control. With my co-worker, however, I can't help myself. When he starts making know-it-all comments or tries to tell me what to do, it just bristles something inside me. I get all show-offy and I have to one-up him...to knock him down a peg. I don't like who I become when he's around. He makes me feel really competitive. I don't know why, we're not in competition with each other. We're peers.
Today I made a conscious effort to not let him get to me. I think it worked. Hopefully, I can keep it up.
I don't want to be a snot. I want to be a better person.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
100th Post! - Fall Musings
This is usually point of every summer that I start jonesing for Fall. It's usually around the first week of august. I love fall. It's my favorite time of year. My favorite of all the seasons. I love the fall so much that Spiderman and I were married in October. Outside. In a park near our house. It was beautiful. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays (Christmas is the first). I love the 60 degree weather, the changing of the leaves, the rainy days, the beginning of school. Wait...did I just say I looked forward to SCHOOL? Well I do. I enjoy learning something new. Using my brain. I enjoy being busy. It isn't until the end of the semester, usually, that I start to get burnt out.
I love shopping for school supplies. Brand new folders, notebooks, pens and boxes of crayons with the sharp points still intact. I love going "school shopping" for new clothes every fall, and I still do it. I was telling Spiderman just the other day that I need a new pair of shoes....for school. They always have awesome sales on jeans and shoes in the fall. I stock up. I try to get a new purse twice a year. I have a spring/summer purse and a fall/winter purse. Each purse reflects my attitude. My spring/summer purse is usually less structured. Almost a hobo bag. It is always colorful and usually made out of cloth. My fall/winter purse is usually a standard bag in either black or brown leather, many times from Nine West.
The fall also brings with it the new television season. I love TV. I spend the whole summer waiting anxiously for the new season to start. I'm especially looking forward to the new season this year because last year's writer's strike ended many shows too soon. I have one or two shows every night that I look forward to watching. I can't wait!
In honor of my 100th post I'm having a contest. All you have to do is leave a comment on THIS post telling me what your favorite thing about fall is and I will pick a winner sometime next week. The winner gets a $25 gift card to Target...my happy place.
I look forward to hearing from you and maybe finding new things I love about fall.
I love shopping for school supplies. Brand new folders, notebooks, pens and boxes of crayons with the sharp points still intact. I love going "school shopping" for new clothes every fall, and I still do it. I was telling Spiderman just the other day that I need a new pair of shoes....for school. They always have awesome sales on jeans and shoes in the fall. I stock up. I try to get a new purse twice a year. I have a spring/summer purse and a fall/winter purse. Each purse reflects my attitude. My spring/summer purse is usually less structured. Almost a hobo bag. It is always colorful and usually made out of cloth. My fall/winter purse is usually a standard bag in either black or brown leather, many times from Nine West.
The fall also brings with it the new television season. I love TV. I spend the whole summer waiting anxiously for the new season to start. I'm especially looking forward to the new season this year because last year's writer's strike ended many shows too soon. I have one or two shows every night that I look forward to watching. I can't wait!
In honor of my 100th post I'm having a contest. All you have to do is leave a comment on THIS post telling me what your favorite thing about fall is and I will pick a winner sometime next week. The winner gets a $25 gift card to Target...my happy place.
I look forward to hearing from you and maybe finding new things I love about fall.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Twilight
Can I just say? I am now totally obsessed with a new series of books. After the Harry Potter series ended, I was going through withdrawals. A girlfriend of mine (thank you Gina) recommend this book to me. I won't tell you anything about it....I'll leave that for my book review section...but after finishing the first book, I had to buy the other 2 in the series and am anxiously awaiting the fourth (and final) book that comes out Aug 2nd. I also found the trailer for the movie that comes out in December. Read it.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Your Questions Answered!
Okay everyone! I asked for good questions and I sure got them! You guys came up with some really good ones....so here goes:
Tara asked:
Why do you call your husband "Spiderman"?
Much like his 2 year old nephew, my husband is OBSESSED with Spiderman. Has been his whole life. He would only see Spiderman 3 on the IMAX screen not on a regular screen. He has spiderman t-shirts, dolls, bandannas, towels, etc AND our cat's full name is Peter Parker. Needless to say when I was thinking of an alias for him, the first thing that came to mind was Spiderman. It just fits and he seems to like it.
Lisa asked:
Why did you decide to become a respiratory therapist? Did I hear you mention going back to school to become a teacher?
The answer to this is kind of a long story so I'll try to be brief. I was originally pre-med and about 2 1/2 years into school I was working full time and going to school full time and not doing well at either. I decided to switch majors and wanted to stay in health care. I got a bunch of pamphlets and respiratory was only a 2 year program. I would finish up school with my other friends and it seemed like a good idea. I honestly didn't know what one really did until my first day of class. I figured that I would work in the field a little while and go back to med school. Sometimes I wonder what would have been different if I had stuck with it, but I see every day how much Dr's have to give up of their personal lives.
Now I'm going back to school, but not med school. I want to become High School/Jr. High English teacher. It's what I enjoy. Reading, writing, and talking about what I read/wrote.
Plus, after years of working shift work/weekends/holidays, the hours are GREAT!
thecoconutdiaries asked:
What class did you end up registering for?
I had a rough time deciding what to take this semester, but I finally made a choice. I'm taking the Writing Fiction class. Because it sounds interesting and like something I always wanted to do. With my new schedule I'm only taking the one class though....until I figure how to balance more.
If you could call your blog something else, what would it be?
That's a tough question. I had a hard time coming up with the one I have now. Actually, my husband suggested it. My mother thought of Practically Perfect in Every Way another homage to Mary Poppins. Some days I kind of feel a little like a Spoon Full of Crazy.
Mimi's Toes asked:
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you visit and why?
I have a whole list: France, Ireland, England, Scotland, Australia, India, Egypt
Also, anywhere else...I've hardly been ANYWHERE!
You have beautiful hair...what products do you use?
I have naturally curly, coarse, and crazy hair. My favorite thing to do is straighten it, but I also have a LOT of hair so I don't do it that often. For straightening I use Bumble and Bumble Straight, and B&B gloss. As far as my shampoo and conditioner goes I'm a Pantene girl. It just seems to work with my hair. Every so often I will deep condition my hair by putting olive oil in it and letting it set for 30 min-hour (depending on what I've got going on).
For the curly hair...this will probably make you sick....nothing. I just wash it. Sometimes I'll put a leave in conditioner on, if I remember.
Mel, A Dramatic Mommy asked:
Scenario: I'm coming back to Chicago for my first visit in years, but I only have 2 days. What should I do?
These answers are completely up to your taste, but this is what I would do.
1. go see a show (Wicked, Second City...there's tons)
2. Shop (because how can you not?)
3. Eat (some of the best restaurants are in Chicago and I'm sure there are tons of new ones since you've been there)
4. If you have time, take Drama Kid to the Lincoln Park Zoo. It's free.
If you had more time, you could do the museums and stuff, but this is what I'd do with the 2 days.
JackeeG4glamorous asked:
If you could eat only one thing for every meal, every day for the rest of your life, (excluding nectarine's) what would that be and why?
My mother and I asked this question to my stepfather once and he answered without hesitating: nectarines.
I would eat pizza. I know it's cliched, but you could have some variety with pizza. You can eat different toppings. Or from different restaurants. A homemade pizza tastes different from frozen, and they both are different from Giordano's. It would take me a long time to get tired of pizza.
This was a lot of fun. I may have to do this again some other time. It gave me some time to think of what I'm going to do for my 100th post, which is coming up.
Tara asked:
Why do you call your husband "Spiderman"?
Much like his 2 year old nephew, my husband is OBSESSED with Spiderman. Has been his whole life. He would only see Spiderman 3 on the IMAX screen not on a regular screen. He has spiderman t-shirts, dolls, bandannas, towels, etc AND our cat's full name is Peter Parker. Needless to say when I was thinking of an alias for him, the first thing that came to mind was Spiderman. It just fits and he seems to like it.
Lisa asked:
Why did you decide to become a respiratory therapist? Did I hear you mention going back to school to become a teacher?
The answer to this is kind of a long story so I'll try to be brief. I was originally pre-med and about 2 1/2 years into school I was working full time and going to school full time and not doing well at either. I decided to switch majors and wanted to stay in health care. I got a bunch of pamphlets and respiratory was only a 2 year program. I would finish up school with my other friends and it seemed like a good idea. I honestly didn't know what one really did until my first day of class. I figured that I would work in the field a little while and go back to med school. Sometimes I wonder what would have been different if I had stuck with it, but I see every day how much Dr's have to give up of their personal lives.
Now I'm going back to school, but not med school. I want to become High School/Jr. High English teacher. It's what I enjoy. Reading, writing, and talking about what I read/wrote.
Plus, after years of working shift work/weekends/holidays, the hours are GREAT!
thecoconutdiaries asked:
What class did you end up registering for?
I had a rough time deciding what to take this semester, but I finally made a choice. I'm taking the Writing Fiction class. Because it sounds interesting and like something I always wanted to do. With my new schedule I'm only taking the one class though....until I figure how to balance more.
If you could call your blog something else, what would it be?
That's a tough question. I had a hard time coming up with the one I have now. Actually, my husband suggested it. My mother thought of Practically Perfect in Every Way another homage to Mary Poppins. Some days I kind of feel a little like a Spoon Full of Crazy.
Mimi's Toes asked:
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you visit and why?
I have a whole list: France, Ireland, England, Scotland, Australia, India, Egypt
Also, anywhere else...I've hardly been ANYWHERE!
You have beautiful hair...what products do you use?
I have naturally curly, coarse, and crazy hair. My favorite thing to do is straighten it, but I also have a LOT of hair so I don't do it that often. For straightening I use Bumble and Bumble Straight, and B&B gloss. As far as my shampoo and conditioner goes I'm a Pantene girl. It just seems to work with my hair. Every so often I will deep condition my hair by putting olive oil in it and letting it set for 30 min-hour (depending on what I've got going on).
For the curly hair...this will probably make you sick....nothing. I just wash it. Sometimes I'll put a leave in conditioner on, if I remember.
Mel, A Dramatic Mommy asked:
Scenario: I'm coming back to Chicago for my first visit in years, but I only have 2 days. What should I do?
These answers are completely up to your taste, but this is what I would do.
1. go see a show (Wicked, Second City...there's tons)
2. Shop (because how can you not?)
3. Eat (some of the best restaurants are in Chicago and I'm sure there are tons of new ones since you've been there)
4. If you have time, take Drama Kid to the Lincoln Park Zoo. It's free.
If you had more time, you could do the museums and stuff, but this is what I'd do with the 2 days.
JackeeG4glamorous asked:
If you could eat only one thing for every meal, every day for the rest of your life, (excluding nectarine's) what would that be and why?
My mother and I asked this question to my stepfather once and he answered without hesitating: nectarines.
I would eat pizza. I know it's cliched, but you could have some variety with pizza. You can eat different toppings. Or from different restaurants. A homemade pizza tastes different from frozen, and they both are different from Giordano's. It would take me a long time to get tired of pizza.
This was a lot of fun. I may have to do this again some other time. It gave me some time to think of what I'm going to do for my 100th post, which is coming up.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Ask Sarah
I'm experiencing a small case of blogger's block today so I thought I'd do something different that I've seen on other blogs. YOU ask ME questions and I will answer them in another post. Ask me anything. I'll tell you anything you want to know. Ask as many as you want.
Now is the time to delurk.
Hopefully I'll get some interesting questions.
Now is the time to delurk.
Hopefully I'll get some interesting questions.
Monday, July 21, 2008
The Dark Knight
The BBQ this past weekend was fun, despite the rain I woke up to that morning. By the time of the party, things had pretty much dried up. I would have pictures of the event if I hadn't gotten distracted....by wine.
Lots of wine.
Riesling to be exact.
On Sunday, Spiderman and I went to see The Dark Knight. It was Wicked Awesome! In my opinion it might be the best Batman yet. It was very dark and kind of disturbing. I always thought that the Batman movies should be dark as it is a story about a vigilante. The previous films all had a campy feel with the over-the-top acting and bright colors. Chris Nolan creates a Gotham that seems more realistic. The characters less like "characters" and more relatable. Heath really should win a nomination for this one. I can see why this role disturbed him enough that he couldn't sleep. I had trouble sleeping and I only WATCHED it.
We HAD to go see it since it was my brother's Theatrical Debut! Not to ruin the movie for those of you that haven't seen it, but I'll show you a scene.
Do you see my brother? Here: lets' zoom in on the bottom right corner.
Do you see my brother? Here: lets' zoom in on the bottom right corner.He's the one in the hat.
Our movie experience would have been great if we hadn't been seated in a theatre with a GINORMOUS asshole who gave a very loud running commentary throughout the ENTIRE movie. It started with the previews where he told everyone whether he wanted to see each upcoming film. Then, every time Christian Bale would come on screen he'd shout "There's the Bat Man!" He would also shout "Awesome" every few minutes during the action sequences. Then he would explain the Batman backstory...like anyone doesn't know...or even wants to hear it from him. He also felt like pointing out several times (again, loudly for the whole theatre to hear) during all the exterior shots that they were in fact of Chicago and where exactly they were..."That's lower Wacker Drive"...."That's near the Sear's Tower"...."Did I mention this was in Chicago?"
I. Wanted. To. Kill. Him.
It took every ounce of restraint I could muster not to make a scene and tell him to shutthefuckupnoonewantstohearyourinanedrivel!
But I'm better now. Can you tell?
Friday, July 18, 2008
BBQ Preparations
This is going to be a short post. We're having a barbecue tomorrow and I'm spending my day cleaning like a freak (being on stay-cation I haven't really cleaned all week) and making some of the foods in advance. I'm making my mocha cheesecake , a lemon meringue pie and I think the pico de gallo among other yummy things.
I'm sure I'll have pics of the party to share later.
I'm sure I'll have pics of the party to share later.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Six Flags
So, my post yesterday might have been a little misleading. I didn't spend the day at my mother's pool. I did that on Tuesday. Yesterday, I spent the day here:
Six Flags Great America! I hadn't been there in about 11 years. Spiderman and I had been saying that we should go every summer since we first started dating. It only took us 6 years to get there. Well, six years and two hours.
Here's the large Carousel at the front entrance.
I took this so we wouldn't forget where we parked.
Now I love roller coasters and rides, but I have a tendency towards motion sickness. I even get a little ill when I walk too fast. When I saw this T-shirt I was all about it!
The first ride we went on was the Superman roller coaster. After waiting an hour in line, we finally got on the ride.
I don't know if you can see from this picture, but you're hanging in a way that it feels like you're flying. The ride was pretty cool, but after an additional roller coaster(Iron Wolf) I was done. Sick City. It's kind of a shame. I like roller coasters, but I get SO sick!
Instead I hung out with my peeps. Great America is so good for people watching too. I don't know if its the heat, over stimulation, or sheer exhaustion, but everyone seemed to have this glazed look on their faces. Everyone seems in a daze. Because I was melting I went over to the water park there called Hurricane Harbor. I swear that when I got into the water it steamed off me, I was SO HOT! While I was there, Spiderman went on more of these:
The Batman. I'm getting ill just looking at the picture. He then went on the Viper and Raging Bull (4 times in a row).
This is Spiderman waiting in line for a ride called the Vertical Velocity.
I did not join him. There's not enough money in the world to get me on this ride.
Any ride that comes with this many warnings is NOT for me!
Six Flags Great America! I hadn't been there in about 11 years. Spiderman and I had been saying that we should go every summer since we first started dating. It only took us 6 years to get there. Well, six years and two hours.
Here's the large Carousel at the front entrance.
I took this so we wouldn't forget where we parked.
Now I love roller coasters and rides, but I have a tendency towards motion sickness. I even get a little ill when I walk too fast. When I saw this T-shirt I was all about it!
The first ride we went on was the Superman roller coaster. After waiting an hour in line, we finally got on the ride.
I don't know if you can see from this picture, but you're hanging in a way that it feels like you're flying. The ride was pretty cool, but after an additional roller coaster(Iron Wolf) I was done. Sick City. It's kind of a shame. I like roller coasters, but I get SO sick!
Instead I hung out with my peeps. Great America is so good for people watching too. I don't know if its the heat, over stimulation, or sheer exhaustion, but everyone seemed to have this glazed look on their faces. Everyone seems in a daze. Because I was melting I went over to the water park there called Hurricane Harbor. I swear that when I got into the water it steamed off me, I was SO HOT! While I was there, Spiderman went on more of these:
The Batman. I'm getting ill just looking at the picture. He then went on the Viper and Raging Bull (4 times in a row).
This is Spiderman waiting in line for a ride called the Vertical Velocity.
I did not join him. There's not enough money in the world to get me on this ride.
Any ride that comes with this many warnings is NOT for me!Overall, we had a great time. Much better than the first time I went to Great America with my parents. I was seven. I had had a growth spurt and was too tall for the kiddie rides and too short for the adult rides. I rode the bench most of the day until we found the White Water Rampage (the only ride in the park I could go on).
Before leaving Spiderman and I bought capes. His was Superman and mine was Wonder Woman. (yeah, we're 6 years old.)
A fun time was had by all!
A fun time was had by all!Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Wild Kingdom!
Here I was thinking I lived in a nice normal suburb. Apparently, where I REALLY live is a Zoo.
I was getting ready for dinner and happened to look out my kitchen window. There, at my bird feeder was....a freakin' RACCOON! What's next? Deer? A moose?
And when I went out there screeching did the raccoon run away? NO! It looked at me like I was annoying it until I was almost right by it. I could have smacked the thing. I was waving my arms around and screeching obscenities like an idiot and it finally decided "whoa this lady's nuts" and ran away.
I would have taken a picture, but I kinda freaked out because I've only had that bird feeder for a little over two weeks and Racoon's can be destructive. I'm gonna have to buy me a new feeder that's critter proof.
I was getting ready for dinner and happened to look out my kitchen window. There, at my bird feeder was....a freakin' RACCOON! What's next? Deer? A moose?
And when I went out there screeching did the raccoon run away? NO! It looked at me like I was annoying it until I was almost right by it. I could have smacked the thing. I was waving my arms around and screeching obscenities like an idiot and it finally decided "whoa this lady's nuts" and ran away.
I would have taken a picture, but I kinda freaked out because I've only had that bird feeder for a little over two weeks and Racoon's can be destructive. I'm gonna have to buy me a new feeder that's critter proof.
Book Reviews
Because really, who has time to read bad books?
Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer
About: I'm going to give you just a brief summary of all four books. I don't want to share too much for fear of completely ruining them. This series is basically about the love story
between Bella Swan and Edward Cullen. When Bella moves to Washington state to live with her father she meets Edward. But Edward is different. He's a vampire. A good one. After he saves her from a car accident, she becomes involved with him, his "family" and the vampire world. In book 2, Edward feels that this new world is too dangerous (go figure) for Bella and he leaves her. Enter Jacob. Little does Bella know, Jacob too has a secret. Eventually Edward comes back and book 3 is about the love triangle. Book four wraps up the series and resolves any loose ends.
Rosie Dunne by Cecelia Ahern (also wrote P.S. I love you--great book!)
About: This book is about the unexpected path that Rosie's life takes as told entirely though cards, letters, and emails. These letters start from the time Rosie is a small child and continue thoughout her life until she is middle-aged. Her BFF Alex also plays a large part in the story and her decisions.
What I thought: I thought that the concept of letters makes for an interesting read. Rosie is a likeable character and you root for her through all her setbacks even if you are irritated with her decisions. She is someone you want to see happy in the end.
Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich
About: Bounty Hunter Stephanie Plum is back! After an armed robbery to the tune of nine million dollars Morelli’s distant cousin Loretta is kidnapped. Stephanie must watch out for Loretta’s son, who looks a LOT like Morelli, and try to find Loretta before time runs out. Can this bumbling bounty hunter do it?
What I thought: This was not one of her best Stephanie Plum books, but I liked it nonetheless. It is a humorous, light, read where every person is a character.
Read it? If you’re a fan of Evanovich you will enjoy the newest one in the series. If you’ve never read anything by her before, read it….and then catch up!
Remember Me? by Sophie Kinsella
About: (taken right from the book sleeve) When twenty-eight-year-old Lexi Smart wakes up in a London hospital, she's in for a big surprise. Her teeth are perfect. Her body is toned. Her handbag is Vuitton. Having survived a car accident-in a Mercedes no less- Lexi has lost a big chunk of her memory, three years to be exact, and she's about to find out just how much things have changed.
What I thought: I happen to like both chick lit and Sophie Kinsella's writing style so I really enjoyed this book. It felt like I was discovering Lexi's life right along side her. I also enjoyed watching her grow to accept the person she'd become and the path she had chosen to take and to make some major life changes.
Read it?: I think if you want a nice light summer read that's mildly humorous, go for it! It's a very quick read.
between Bella Swan and Edward Cullen. When Bella moves to Washington state to live with her father she meets Edward. But Edward is different. He's a vampire. A good one. After he saves her from a car accident, she becomes involved with him, his "family" and the vampire world. In book 2, Edward feels that this new world is too dangerous (go figure) for Bella and he leaves her. Enter Jacob. Little does Bella know, Jacob too has a secret. Eventually Edward comes back and book 3 is about the love triangle. Book four wraps up the series and resolves any loose ends.What I thought: After reading Twilight I became obsessed and read all four books (each one is approx 500 pages) in two weeks. I like vampire stories. I like love stories. Keep in mind while reading this that the main character (and intended audience) is a dramatic teenage girl. There were a few parts that I sighed and rolled my eyes about.
Read it? OMG you HAVE to! And do it by December when the movie comes out!
Rosie Dunne by Cecelia Ahern (also wrote P.S. I love you--great book!)About: This book is about the unexpected path that Rosie's life takes as told entirely though cards, letters, and emails. These letters start from the time Rosie is a small child and continue thoughout her life until she is middle-aged. Her BFF Alex also plays a large part in the story and her decisions.
What I thought: I thought that the concept of letters makes for an interesting read. Rosie is a likeable character and you root for her through all her setbacks even if you are irritated with her decisions. She is someone you want to see happy in the end.
Read it? I think it's worth it as Rosie's character has flaws and has real obstacles that make you relate to her character a little better. I also felt kinship with the fact that her best and closest friend since childhood was a boy.
Fearless Fourteen by Janet EvanovichAbout: Bounty Hunter Stephanie Plum is back! After an armed robbery to the tune of nine million dollars Morelli’s distant cousin Loretta is kidnapped. Stephanie must watch out for Loretta’s son, who looks a LOT like Morelli, and try to find Loretta before time runs out. Can this bumbling bounty hunter do it?
What I thought: This was not one of her best Stephanie Plum books, but I liked it nonetheless. It is a humorous, light, read where every person is a character.
Read it? If you’re a fan of Evanovich you will enjoy the newest one in the series. If you’ve never read anything by her before, read it….and then catch up!
Remember Me? by Sophie KinsellaAbout: (taken right from the book sleeve) When twenty-eight-year-old Lexi Smart wakes up in a London hospital, she's in for a big surprise. Her teeth are perfect. Her body is toned. Her handbag is Vuitton. Having survived a car accident-in a Mercedes no less- Lexi has lost a big chunk of her memory, three years to be exact, and she's about to find out just how much things have changed.
What I thought: I happen to like both chick lit and Sophie Kinsella's writing style so I really enjoyed this book. It felt like I was discovering Lexi's life right along side her. I also enjoyed watching her grow to accept the person she'd become and the path she had chosen to take and to make some major life changes.
Read it?: I think if you want a nice light summer read that's mildly humorous, go for it! It's a very quick read.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Mystery Of The Backyard Holes Solved!
The mystery is solved. Today I was in my backyard filling the bird feeders and found out who lives in the holes. It's a chipmunk and his name is Chuck.
This is what he looks like.
This is what he looks like.
Well. Actually it's more like this.
I'm very relieved and now will not be forever banished from the backyard. So our total now is
1. flock of birds
2. family of bunnies (momma, papa, and two babies)
3. a chipmunk
4. a squirrel
I wonder if we can start charging them rent.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
An Unwanted Tenant
OMG! I almost forgot! Today it has been one whole year that Spiderman and I have been in our house. Apparently now we have an unwanted tenant on the premises. 
So here's my question: Who lives in these holes? Do they look like snake holes to you? Remember, if it IS a snake I might NEVER SET FOOT IN MY BACKYARD AGAIN! Which would be sad. Maybe I could get a pet mongoose....like Rikki Tikki Tavi.
So here's my question: Who lives in these holes? Do they look like snake holes to you? Remember, if it IS a snake I might NEVER SET FOOT IN MY BACKYARD AGAIN! Which would be sad. Maybe I could get a pet mongoose....like Rikki Tikki Tavi.Or maybe it's a chipmunk. I sure hope it is.
My Busy Weekend
So far this weekend I've been pretty busy. On Friday night Spiderman and I went to my friend Brandi's house for dinner and games. I wanted to test out a recipe for Pico de Gallo and Guacamole that I found on The Pioneer Woman. 
Can I just say...she ROCKS! The Pico was SO tasty!
And the guacamole was PERFECT. We ate all of it!
Then on Saturday, my girlfriend Gina came to town with her newest little guy, Cooper. I got to meet the little pumpkin and give him his blanket, which I finally finished.
It turned out pretty cute. After I was done stitching, I sewed some flannel to the back to make it nice and soft and baby friendly.
I am so relieved to have that finished. It took me much longer than I had anticipated. Later that evening I went to the NWI Bloggy Meet where I met SO many interesting people. I now have several new blogs to read and I think some new friends.
Here's the group picture of everyone there. Unfortunately the picture is blurry. My camera totally sucks. I really should get a new one...perhaps like Crooked Eyebrows. She has the coolest Nikon and I completely want it!!
All I have planned for today is about 5-6 loads of laundry. I know what you're thinking...Wow, super fun day! I know you're jealous.
Can I just say...she ROCKS! The Pico was SO tasty!
And the guacamole was PERFECT. We ate all of it!Then on Saturday, my girlfriend Gina came to town with her newest little guy, Cooper. I got to meet the little pumpkin and give him his blanket, which I finally finished.
It turned out pretty cute. After I was done stitching, I sewed some flannel to the back to make it nice and soft and baby friendly.
I am so relieved to have that finished. It took me much longer than I had anticipated. Later that evening I went to the NWI Bloggy Meet where I met SO many interesting people. I now have several new blogs to read and I think some new friends.
Here's the group picture of everyone there. Unfortunately the picture is blurry. My camera totally sucks. I really should get a new one...perhaps like Crooked Eyebrows. She has the coolest Nikon and I completely want it!!All I have planned for today is about 5-6 loads of laundry. I know what you're thinking...Wow, super fun day! I know you're jealous.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Thursday Thoughts or Deep Thoughts by Spoon Full of Sarah
My headache disappeared today and I feel much better. I had a busy day with two different sets of Respiratory students from two different respiratory schools. I'm busily trying to get them in a routine in preparation for next week when I'm on vacation and they'll be at the mercy of a co-worker.
Also, last week I bought a finch feeder and a bird feeder for regular seed and put them in my backyard. This week it's like freakin' wild kingdom out there. We now have a flock of regular birds, a family of bunnies, and a squirrel all hanging out near the feeders. Lots of fun for kitties to watch.
As for my deep thoughts for the day...I was inspired by Susannah's post earlier this week. She writes of how hard it is to make new friends as adults. I find this to be completely true. As a shy little girl I always had a hard time making friends, but it seemed to be much easier then than it is now. I've never had very many close girl friends. I find them harder to relate to, more petty and more competitive, than boys. The close girl friends that I did make were almost always poor choices. I had some that stole/slept with boyfriends (or ex-boyfriends). I had others that would tell me I was fat, unintelligent or too weak and accommodating. They loved to point out my faults and tell me that they were "helping" me. Why did I remain friends with them? Because they had good points too. And they were different than me. They were BOLD and AGGRESSIVE (translate: BITCHES) And I believed most of what they said about me.
In High School I was terrorized by a group of former girlfriends whom I'd had a falling out with over not wanting to sneak into an R rated movie when we were 14. Because of this one incident I was subjected to:
*Phone calls where they would call me horrible names and/or threaten to kill me
*I had my locker changed 5 times my freshman year because they would wait for me there between classes
*They started rumors about me and sabotaged any new friendships I might form
*They drove by my house and screamed obscenities at me
*Physically threatening me at any after school function I might dare to attend (sporting events, or dances)
This lasted 4 years. Freshman and Sophomore years were the worst but by Junior and Senior years they slowed down to a trickle and started to leave me alone more.
As you can imagine, I've been a little wary of making girl friends ever since and still made a few poor choices in college. Today I only have a few girlfriends that I consider close friends.
Angela, Gina, Brandi, Tracy--You gals are the best and we don't get together nearly enough!
I so would like to broaden my friend horizons....but how do you do that?
As kids you would play with whoever lived on your block. When you went to school you would make friends with the girls in your class, or in girl scouts or whatever activity you were involved in. As adults where do you make friends? With the people you work with? I have a few, but that can be a slippery slope at times. Should I join a class or something? Yoga, scrapbooking, underwater basket weaving?
Maybe I should take out an ad:
WANTED: Married, 30 year old female, no children (yet) looking for someone to share movies, crappy TV, shopping, spa days and girl talk.
Wait...that kinda sounds like Spiderman.
If only he were a girl. (although I'm infinitely grateful that he is not since that's not the way I roll.)
Anyone out there have any other suggestions?
Also, last week I bought a finch feeder and a bird feeder for regular seed and put them in my backyard. This week it's like freakin' wild kingdom out there. We now have a flock of regular birds, a family of bunnies, and a squirrel all hanging out near the feeders. Lots of fun for kitties to watch.
As for my deep thoughts for the day...I was inspired by Susannah's post earlier this week. She writes of how hard it is to make new friends as adults. I find this to be completely true. As a shy little girl I always had a hard time making friends, but it seemed to be much easier then than it is now. I've never had very many close girl friends. I find them harder to relate to, more petty and more competitive, than boys. The close girl friends that I did make were almost always poor choices. I had some that stole/slept with boyfriends (or ex-boyfriends). I had others that would tell me I was fat, unintelligent or too weak and accommodating. They loved to point out my faults and tell me that they were "helping" me. Why did I remain friends with them? Because they had good points too. And they were different than me. They were BOLD and AGGRESSIVE (translate: BITCHES) And I believed most of what they said about me.
In High School I was terrorized by a group of former girlfriends whom I'd had a falling out with over not wanting to sneak into an R rated movie when we were 14. Because of this one incident I was subjected to:
*Phone calls where they would call me horrible names and/or threaten to kill me
*I had my locker changed 5 times my freshman year because they would wait for me there between classes
*They started rumors about me and sabotaged any new friendships I might form
*They drove by my house and screamed obscenities at me
*Physically threatening me at any after school function I might dare to attend (sporting events, or dances)
This lasted 4 years. Freshman and Sophomore years were the worst but by Junior and Senior years they slowed down to a trickle and started to leave me alone more.
As you can imagine, I've been a little wary of making girl friends ever since and still made a few poor choices in college. Today I only have a few girlfriends that I consider close friends.
Angela, Gina, Brandi, Tracy--You gals are the best and we don't get together nearly enough!
I so would like to broaden my friend horizons....but how do you do that?
As kids you would play with whoever lived on your block. When you went to school you would make friends with the girls in your class, or in girl scouts or whatever activity you were involved in. As adults where do you make friends? With the people you work with? I have a few, but that can be a slippery slope at times. Should I join a class or something? Yoga, scrapbooking, underwater basket weaving?
Maybe I should take out an ad:
WANTED: Married, 30 year old female, no children (yet) looking for someone to share movies, crappy TV, shopping, spa days and girl talk.
Wait...that kinda sounds like Spiderman.
If only he were a girl. (although I'm infinitely grateful that he is not since that's not the way I roll.)
Anyone out there have any other suggestions?
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
I Got Nothin'
I got nothing for you guys today but the beginnings of another migraine.
And agitation that comes from monster headaches.
I will try to remain positive:
1. I got some spiffy new scrubs today. I LOVE getting new scrubs!
2. This weekend I'm not only going to the NWI Bloggy Meet (can't wait) but also my girlfriend Gina is coming to town and bringing her newest little guy (guess this means that I REALLY have to finish that baby blanket I'm working on.)
Sorry, that's all I've got. If you want to read an interesting/funny/gross post go here to my mother's blog.
And agitation that comes from monster headaches.
I will try to remain positive:
1. I got some spiffy new scrubs today. I LOVE getting new scrubs!
2. This weekend I'm not only going to the NWI Bloggy Meet (can't wait) but also my girlfriend Gina is coming to town and bringing her newest little guy (guess this means that I REALLY have to finish that baby blanket I'm working on.)
Sorry, that's all I've got. If you want to read an interesting/funny/gross post go here to my mother's blog.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
A Swim In The Gene Pool
I was looking through some old pics of my grandmother. (My mother's mother)
Can I just say?
Is this creepy or what?
Do you guys see a resemblence?
My gene pool is pretty strong. Spiderman thinks our kids are gonna look like him.
I'm not so sure.
Can I just say?
Is this creepy or what?
Do you guys see a resemblence?
My gene pool is pretty strong. Spiderman thinks our kids are gonna look like him.I'm not so sure.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Wanted: Secret Agent
What is it about me that makes people want to talk to me? Complete strangers feel the need to tell me their entire life story....their troubles....everything. My patients tell me WAY to much information every day. Just today I had a patient, housekeeper, and the check-out lady at the grocery store all share a part of their life with me.
Is it because I listen?
Do I seem approachable?
Unmenacing?
Maybe I missed my calling. I probably should have been a psychiatrist....or a spy. People seem to want to tell me their secrets. I probably could have been a kick ass spy. No one would have ever suspected me. I appear very trustworthy and innocent.
I guess I am those things.
I also have the wonderful ability to go completely unnoticed. I tend to be quiet, an observer, and blend in well with a crowd. Again, totally spy criteria.
I could wear disguises and have all sorts of cool gadgets. I'm getting excited just thinking about it.
If any agency out there needs a good spy....I'm available.
I guess you know where to find me.
Is it because I listen?
Do I seem approachable?
Unmenacing?
Maybe I missed my calling. I probably should have been a psychiatrist....or a spy. People seem to want to tell me their secrets. I probably could have been a kick ass spy. No one would have ever suspected me. I appear very trustworthy and innocent.
I guess I am those things.
I also have the wonderful ability to go completely unnoticed. I tend to be quiet, an observer, and blend in well with a crowd. Again, totally spy criteria.
I could wear disguises and have all sorts of cool gadgets. I'm getting excited just thinking about it.
If any agency out there needs a good spy....I'm available.
I guess you know where to find me.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Firebugs
What is it with men and fireworks? All of a sudden they become 12 year old boys full of the ecstasy seeing things blow up. This is something that those of us with the double X just don't understand. M-60's, M-80's, bottle rockets, all kinds of firecrackers....things that only make a loud boom. That's what boys like.
Us girls on the other hand... We like our girl fireworks. Things that spark and make pretty colors. We dig the snakes, morning glories, and fountains.
My sister-in-law Heather holding a fountain in the shape of a fish.
I totally dig the little tank fountain that shoots colorful sparks. Very little boom...lots of color.
Us girls on the other hand... We like our girl fireworks. Things that spark and make pretty colors. We dig the snakes, morning glories, and fountains.
My sister-in-law Heather holding a fountain in the shape of a fish.
I totally dig the little tank fountain that shoots colorful sparks. Very little boom...lots of color.Our boys were nice enough to get us some girl fireworks in addition to their arsenal.
Fun was had by all.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Happy 4th!!
Happy Independance Day! I want everyone to take a brief moment to remember, especially in this time of war and impending presidential elections, to reflect on just how lucky we are to have this freedom.
I hope that everyone has a great holiday. I'm going to be relaxing at my mom's for a BBQ and swimming if it's warm enough.
I hope that everyone has a great holiday. I'm going to be relaxing at my mom's for a BBQ and swimming if it's warm enough.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
A New Hope
This week I'm feeling hopeful about my job at the Chamber of Horrors. We have a unique opportunity with our new manager to improve things. We can now make it the workplace we've always wanted. I'm happy that I get to be a part of that. I'm also hopeful that I'll be getting paid more. Currently they are hiring the new graduate employees for only $1 less than I make and I've been there 8 years. And I'm training them.
This couldn't have come at a better time. I was getting so disgruntled that I was about ready to set the place on fire.
Maybe now I'll have put those plans on hold.
I also finally finished Eat,Pray,Love. I enjoyed the book. She tells her story with great humor. It also made me want to travel desperately. Did anyone else read this book? Did you find the part at the Ashram in India to be REALLY SLOW or was that just me? Does this mean I'm not spiritual enough? All her talk about relaxing and meditation was making me tense. I'm not very Zen.
This couldn't have come at a better time. I was getting so disgruntled that I was about ready to set the place on fire.
Maybe now I'll have put those plans on hold.
I also finally finished Eat,Pray,Love. I enjoyed the book. She tells her story with great humor. It also made me want to travel desperately. Did anyone else read this book? Did you find the part at the Ashram in India to be REALLY SLOW or was that just me? Does this mean I'm not spiritual enough? All her talk about relaxing and meditation was making me tense. I'm not very Zen.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Learning Is A Good Thing!
I'm really enjoying my new position in education so far. I have some interesting students and they're getting to the really interesting part of their program....ICU. We also have SO many new employees and I'm helping to orientate them. This actually has proven to be fun and interesting. As I'm orientating I'm rediscovering what I loved about respiratory. It looks like several of the new graduates that we recently hired are going to grow into really amazing therapists and I'm hopeful that the Chamber can make a turn around. (Especially now that we're under new management). I have noticed that with so many new people starting some things have fallen through the cracks though. Not everyone was trained on the same things or even the same way. What's great is it is now MY JOB to make sure everyone is on the same page and to train them. This is what I enjoy doing. Teaching.
See...EVERYBODY has things to learn! Go with the flow.
The down side of this is that not everyone WANTS to be taught. I'm getting some attitude, especially from some of the therapists that have been there a while. We're getting a new lab system that goes live on July 15th. THEY NEED TO LEARN THIS. It's not optional.
On a brighter note: Here is a picture I took this past weekend of a bird who I think is just learning to fly. He took a little break from his attempts and stood on our front porch chirping for his mom for a while until she showed up and flew off with him.
See...EVERYBODY has things to learn! Go with the flow.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
