A Nurse that Knits

Moments Of Peace

2011-12-21T18:27:00.000-08:00

Wishing my family, friends and fellow bloggers a Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year. Take time for a few peaceful moments, you deserve it.

JOY!

2011-12-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

Our favorite - the only kind we are making...and I think we will make several more batches before December 25th arrives. Christmas cookies are made for eating..if we save them, they will surely get stale:)

It's all about the little things

2011-11-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

A disabled vet, who made his living jumping out of planes, receives wound care twice per week. Wound care that would have taken him half a day to complete on his own, he states. He's thankful...I'm humbled and honored to care for him. ~*~ A daughter and granddaughter providing such loving care for their mother and grandmother - thanked me for coming into their home to oversee the care and maintain a Picc line for IV infusions. Little do they know that I am blessed to come into their home, witnessing the love and compassion that envelopes their home. ~*~ An elderly man, doing everything possible to keep his loving wife in their home of 60 years, is so grateful to learn the correct way to monitor BG levels. He doesn't know that after I left his home, I thanked God for leading me on this path.

Spending some time with the knitting needles in hand, this evening. I have wanted one of those "infinity scarves", for awhile. I found a blog that I'm in love with! Knitting the "Yoshimi Loop Scarf" from her blog. Using some beautiful Lamb's Pride wool, that I purchased in Watkins Glen. Since I'm knitting with size 8 needles, this project is going to take a while, but I think the outcome may be a perfect accessory for my trip to NYC, next month!

It's good to be back to the blog. Happy week-ending, friends!

Really?? Has that much time passed by?

2011-10-27T18:00:00.000-07:00

Honestly, I can't believe that I have not posted anything since March. March just happens to be the month that I started my new nursing venture in field nursing...busy, busy, busy! Not sure if that is a good excuse for abandoning my poor blog for so long, but I really had been absorbed in work. After 7 months, I think I really have the hang of it and breathing a little easier.

Blog traffic - wow! Around the world..really? Getting a lot of viewing from my link on all time favorite blog - a-friend-to-knit-with - thanks, Leslie!

What are you knitting on, out there? I just finished a simple, prayer shawl, for my husband's Aunt Sharon. She survived a very bad MVA with a tractor trailer, and needs continuous prayers.

Spent some time at Finger Lake Fibers, last weekend. Love the town, love the lake, love that shop!

Entertaining - here are a few pictures of our Octoberfest.

Change of Seasons

2011-03-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

Spring, spring, spring! I think this is what I like most about living in PA - the excitement of the change in seasons. We have had a fun winter, ending it with an overnight ski trip to Sno Mountain, a few weeks ago.

Now, spring is in the air! I placed my first order from the seed catalog, anticipating planting season. I'm thinking of starting some seeds, inside, but that usually doesn't go over very well.

My most dear memory of Spring will always be: As a little girl, remembering the yellow swarm of fuzzy, baby chicks that my Nana & Grandpa always ordered - how exciting to see them for the first time, each season. Even at 42, I can easily still feel the warmth from the heat lights and hear the sound of my Grandpa's voice. I think he was always very excited to get the chicks, too.

What's up at the Abbott home? Finishing up some quick, new dishcloths. Mine were getting so worn, and I love that I can finish one up in just a few hours. A compost bin is being made. * Plans for a pavilion are being drawn up. *I have just started scrapping, again.* Orange peel bird feeders are being made by the dozens* The grill is being fired up, tonight.*

I'm stepping into the waters of community nursing! After 2.5 years of med/surg nursing, I am leaving the floor to travel the country roads and provide home nursing. The chance to initiate teachings and provide individualized care is something that I have been yearning for. The

flexability of the position is another great perk. I'm very excited about this move.

Have a great weekend, friends. Enjoy those first signs of Spring.

More of February

2011-02-21T14:05:00.000-08:00

Finally, a craft room that I had envisioned for so long..complete!

We refurbished an antique, hobby bench that had previously set in an old, garage for probably 100 years! After scrubbing off layers of suet & dirt, we added crown molding and painted it. A few boards were removed so that a comfy stool fit up to it. Credit goes to my husband for everything, except the scrubbing. Now, to get pictures printed off & start scrapping!

Finishing up a rugby style scarf for Madison, and then may put the knitting on hold for awhile, so that I can get back in the waters of scrapping.

Spent part of the afternoon soaking up some sun and XC skiing! The views that surround our home are beautiful, especially blanketed in glistening snow.

Heading to Sno-Mountain, next week, for a few days of skiing with the family. Life is good & every day is a blessing~

LoVE iS FaMiLy

2011-02-14T10:57:00.000-08:00

Time has gotten away from me, as I realize that I have not posted anything for the month of February - and how did it get to be mid-Feb., already?

We have been keeping busy with an array of activities, nothing "over the top," just wholesome, content, fun! Everything from homemade pizza parties, sledding, xc skiing, making ice cream, ice skating, board games & movies in the family room and cooking with my daughter.

I took on the attitude, a few years ago, to embrace what winter has to offer - the chance to slow down a bit, enjoy the coziness of our home but also enjoy the outdoor activities of winter. We have had so many bitter, cold days and few sunny, winter days. I'm hoping that the next two weeks hold much sunshine, as well as snow covered grounds. It's much nicer for sledding.

Something that I have not started = scrapbooking. I wanted to dive into pictures, paper & stickers, this winter..and as of now, I have not started. I did, however; find myself an AWESOME, antique, free workstation! This beast came from an old, auto garage. See the before & after pics. We still need to cap the ends in moulding & add a piece of plate glass to the top. My hubby is going to cut out two boards, underneath, so that a comfy stool will fit, nicely. Hopefully, within the next two days, this great find will be sitting in the craft room.

I'm keeping up with Project 365! At the end of one year, I will have the project made into a photo book - fun!

Have a nice Valentine's Day, everyone!

Coupons - I'll give it a try!

2011-01-19T10:39:00.000-08:00

I just happened to see the show, Extreme Couponing, featuring "The Krazy Coupon Lady". It got me thinking..I should, at least, be clipping a coupon for cereal! It seems utterly impossible that a person can take 4 grocery carts through a checkout and spend under $50, but the show proved it possible. I want no part of that type of stress, but I was inspired to, at least, start clipping the coupons from the Sunday paper. I'll admit, her website is amazing. She makes printing coupons very easy. Her coupon database is right at your fingertips. Her Facebook page is awesome, as well. I don't plan on buying something just because I found a coupon for it. I'm too practical for that.

As I was working on the Drop-Stitched Scarf, I decided that I wanted to make it a neckwarmer, as I have so many scarves. The newest rage in the knitting world seem to be the neckwarmers and cowls, adorned with pretty accessories to hold in place. I loved this so much, that I made a second one for a friend. Notice the pretty, charmed accessory that I created as an anchor, to hold the neckwarmer in place. I bought some hair pins in the jewelry section of Hobby Lobby. These come with a flattened circle at the top, perfect for adding any type of bead or gem...and it works perfect to hold this accessory in place. I like! Meeting a friend for dinner, this evening - and surprising her with this. I hope she likes it, too.

Speaking of a friend, I'm very excited to be making my friend, Renee's gift, her birthday being in less than a month. I can't say what it is at this time, but it has to do with something we both love! More to come on this...

Finally, we have a winter wonderland. Everything is blanketed in white - so pretty! This is one of the views from my living room.

Scrapbooking, anyone?

2011-01-10T17:51:00.000-08:00

Finally getting the craft room back in order. Really looking to get back into scrapping. I have everything I need at my fingertips..just need the motivation to get going! Have not scrapped in two years! Really have a lot of catching up to do! Planning on some girlfriend scrap nights, to get the ball rolling. This room now holds two 6-foot tables, which should be plenty big enough to welcome many.
Started a "Drop Stitch" scarf to pair up with my new charcoal wool coat..fun pattern and love the design.

The 365 project..a picture a day for 365 days per year. I may not be able to load the pic up, every day, but I shouldn't have a problem snapping the picture. Several of my blogger friends completed the 365 for 2010 and it is amazing. What an accomplishment! I'm challenging myself to see if I can do it! I will be using Flickr as my host.

I was crushed, yesterday, when I went to get my Rebel T1i out of the bag....the glass protection screen was cracked! Until I realized how easy this was to replace, I was devastated. Looks like it might cost $15, and the glass just pops off, only held on with double stick tape. Thank goodness the LCD screen was not damaged.

Mads and I spent Sunday evening baking & cooking. We made a recipe from the Pillsbury website, "Chicken Alfredo Biscuit Casserole." Very good! Definitely a family-style meal that everyone should love. Although it doesn't contain pasta, the biscuit topping make up for the carbs..not the most diet friendly dish, thus far!

Hello 2011!

2011-01-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

Plagued with a chest cold for the new year. Hoping that I may be able to advert this hippo off my chest by drinking lots of fluids, consuming tons of oranges & eating some homemade soup. Made my version Olive Garden's Zuppa soup. Damn good. Chicken in the oven, to bake off the bone, for some homemade chicken noodle soup.

Said goodbye to the decorations, yesterday. I hated to take down my favorite little decoration that I purchased at Home Goods. Madison wanted to leave the bowl of Christmas bulbs, but I told her we would fill the bowl with pineconess and lights, for a winter decoration.

Of course, we needed a picture for 1/1/11. So snapped this candid of the kids & the dog. That's about all I have at this time. Lots of ideas for the upcoming months, though. Upcoming ideas & plans: 4 day ski trip to Hope Lake Lodge, a "melting pot" themed winter party, scrapbooking get-togethers, a trip to the wineries, lots of family movie/game nights, lots of baking/cooking with my daughter, a trip to Fingerlake Fibers new location and lots of knitting.

Christmas Projects & Fun

2010-12-20T04:07:00.000-08:00

We started a tradition, long ago, of making homemade Christmas tags using stamps, glitter, fabric, ribbon, etc. Usually, this tradition takes place at the kitchen table, however; this year, we were able to use the new craft room - joy!! When we were finished, I just closed the door.

I have 4 little nieces that love doing craft projects, as well as my daughter, Madison.

Our family Christmas party was held Saturday evening. I wanted a party where my family could "step back in time". My cousins' made cookies/breads from recipes that my Nana always used. A little tree adorned old pictures and a recreated tin foil star. The star was something I remember on my Grandparent's tree, as my Nana made a star from cardboard/tinfoil and a red light after her original star broke. Fresh cedar, white lights, candy canes & old pictures decorated the tables.

My favorite decoration was taken from an idea in a magazine. I took and old window frame, painted it white and hung different sized snowflakes & black/white vintage pictures, using fishing line.

Wishing everyone a peaceful & relaxing week.

CozY for ChrisTmaS

2010-12-13T19:23:00.000-08:00

My decorations may not be perfect, my shopping may not be quite done and my baking..not even started...BUT, we are cozy in our home! Just enough decorations up to enlighten the house. Christmas movies are being watched, hot cocoa is being drank, family room is full of family and blessings are being counted.

As a nurse, I have witnessed many situations that sting the heart. Each time, making me more & more aware of how precious this life is and what it holds. Don't sweat the small stuff, it's not important in the big picture.

Knitting? A little. Evangeline Christmas Red Fingerless Mitts.

Make time for an old Christmas movie and some cocoa & enjoy the coziness of your home, too!

A little B&N therapy..

2010-10-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

A cozy table, a mile high pile of books, a pumpkin spiced latte = a happy nurse. Spent last Friday at Barnes & Nobles in Vestal, NY. One of the more sprawling versions of this wonderful place that I call "bliss". Of course, I am always drawn to the knitting section, as well as the magazines, but I did make myself spend some time looking at the reference books for RN's. I actually spent 40 minutes, reading about detailed gastrointestinal surgeries, (very popular surgeries that the patients on my floor are involved in). As always, I also love the "bargain section"...always a nice selection of big, hardcover, "coffee table" type books.

I finished and delivered the cashmere/merino wool sweater set for my friend's grandson, Carter. Hands down, the most fun sweater I have knitted, thus far. Debbie Bliss, baby ribbed jacket. The pattern didn't come with a hat, so I checked ravelry and came up with a version.

Next project, a pullover sweater for a little, active 15 month old boy. We don't get to see him much, but from the pictures that his mommy posts, he loves to be outside in the fresh air. Finishing it up in time for a Thanksgiving delivery. Also, knitting up a quick pair of "toast" warmers. Madison is in the Halloween parade this weekend, and thought she might like these. Designed by my blogger friend, Leslie, these are fun & quick to knit up..and are the perfect accessory when you don't need the big, heavy mittens.

These cookies were a hit, last weekend. I have a cupboard full of cookbooks, but it seems I have been "googling" recipes, lately..instead of searching through my books. Found this great recipe for some wonderful oatmeal, peanut butter, choc chip cookies.

That's all I got, friends! This weekend's agenda: a Saturday afternoon photo shoot..I have been trying to get my family together for the past two weekends, before the leaves all fall off. We have spent the weekends together..but no one has wanted to have Mom take pictures! Planning on heading to some neat spots, including a covered bridge, here in Bradford County. Saturday night, we are all headed to the Halloween parade, in Towanda. Madison will be dancing with her dance school. Making some crockpots of comfort food & some appetizers and having people back to the house, following the parade. Wishing the month of October would stay a bit longer!

October fun

2010-10-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Again, it's been awhile...although I have thought of my blog often, I have not made it here to update in a long time. I almost thought of ending it, but I do enjoy posting and just need to get back with it! Just a few days ago, I received a note from a friend, stating she really enjoyed a previous recipe that I posted. I'm hoping to add more recipes, knitting projects, upcoming holiday projects, etc. My mind is spinning with many projects that I can't wait to start, including decorating.

October, my most favorite month of the year! From pumpkin spice to pretty fall leaves..I love it all! Jay and I had our second annual "Octoberfest" party, last weekend. The weather was perfect, which made it even nicer. Jay made excellent b-b-q chicken, and we had many roasters of hot foods to accompany the chicken. The hayride was a hit, as well as the wine table. The kids enjoyed decorating cookies and just enjoying the fresh air. Later in the day, we hired karaoke and heard some very good vocals.

This time of the year is when I enjoy my home so much more. I'm content with staying home more often, enjoying the simple things. A freshly cleaned kitchen, lite candles & some Saturday morning baking..love it! I really "got my Martha on", over the weekend - started with the day off on Friday, making homemade beer bread & a crock of corn/ham/potato chowder. Very much enjoyed by my family, as well as my sister's family, Friday evening. I also baked up 3 butternut squash and made "butternut spiced muffins"..pleasantly surprised how yummy they were, (I added chocolate chips, too!). Saturday, I made homemade pizzas, complete with the homemade pizza crusts. My kids loved the garlic pizzas, the best. I guess we overdosed on carbs this past weekend, but a lot of love went into the baking & cooking.

I have also picked up the knitting needles a little more often, which is also a sure sign of fall! enjoyed making this "Ribbed Baby Jacket", for a friend's grandson.

Knitted in cashmere/wool combo, loved working with this fiber. My next project is a pullover sweater for a little 1 year old guy, can't wait to get that started!

Have a wonderful, fall week, friends! I will be back soon, and that's a promise:)

Tree of Life

2010-07-28T04:16:00.000-07:00

It's been a trying few weeks. A three-day hospitalization put a little wrench in last week's plans. Do you ever feel like you have so much going on that your head is spinning? With an upcoming 7 day vacation, a son heading off to college, birthdays, appointments, etc, one sometimes just has to say, "hold on".

My daughter said to me the other night, "Mom, come for a ranger ride with me, I want to show you the neatest tree ever", "it looks like the tree of life". Off we go, enjoying a ranger ride, first looking for blackberries and then down the hill to see the tree. Low and behold, it sure does look like the tree of life.

Good ole' days of summer

2010-07-06T15:59:00.000-07:00

Pardon me, for not getting a few posts in since the beginning of June..I'm still trying to understand how we got to July so quickly:)

Summer is in full swing. I'm very much trying to stick to my three 12 hour shifts per week, at work..giving me more time to enjoy summer.

June led us to Cape May, NJ, for a week of camping and playing in the waves. I just love Cape May. Love the laid-back atmosphere of the town, the big old colonial mansions with beautiful blooming hydrangeas. Especially love how many people ride those old fashioned bikes with wicker baskets tied to the front. What I didn't like....being in a pop-up camper with no air condition. Bessie made her last trip to Cape May this summer, I vow to never take her again. Next time, we will be staying in one of those colonials'. Ever so, everyone enjoyed the beach and the waves, we all enjoyed the Washington Street Mall, too. Of course, what is a beach without heading to a board walk..Wildwood was on 15 minutes away.

A picture that I snapped in a yarn shop at the Washington Street Mall.

We just returned from a boating/camping trip to Sampson Park on Seneca Lake. Bessie got a huge campsite, and we parked her right under a big shade tree. This trip was good for the soul. The nights cooled down and were perfect for sleeping. The mornings were early, with fresh ground coffee enjoyed, while Jay made hearty breakfasts' . We boated from one end of Seneca to the other, stopping many times for everyone to swim. Campfires were awesome, we ate everything from pizza filled mountain pies to s'mores of all kinds. My favorite s'more was a chocolate graham with a strawberry marshmallow and a square of Hershey...yum! Tim tried out the new corn popper and made several batches over the fire. Needless to say, I ate way too much on this vacation. I even started/finished, a very good book by Nicholas Sparks, "The Choice." Highly recommended.

Priorities for this week: pick blackcaps before they are dried up..really in the mood to make some jams with Madison, fill out gobs of paperwork for Logan's first semester at LHU..and of course..go to work.

Make yourself some sun tea and enjoy these hot summer days, friends. I'll be back soon...this time, for sure~

whirlwind..

2010-06-02T17:56:00.000-07:00

That is what the last few weeks have felt like..a whirlwind. I worked a little extra time in the past week, finishing up this week and getting back to my three 12's/ week for summer. Still LOVE nursing, sometimes I have a little cry on my drive home...but it's not from the work, it's from the experience of comforting an elderly person that just found out he can't go home to his wife and needs to go to a nursing home...its looking into the eyes of a woman in her 40's who is emancipated from cancer and faces the challenge of surgery for palliative care..it's that little grandma type that is teetering on the fence of Alzheimer's -vs- reality...it's the man that worked hard all his life and finds out that his leg couldn't be saved. Every day is such a reminder to not take life for granted.

On a different note, we enjoyed Madison's dance recital last weekend:) I now know why she is tired & hungry after dance practice. She preformed thee dances, tap, ballet & jazz. The jazz routine was over the top! Dancing to Tina Turner's "Proud Mary", they got to close the show...it was awesome!

Longing for that first camping trip. Our first trip of the season will be to Cape May. Leaving in a few weeks and spending five nights at Seashore Campground. We were there a few years back and just loved it.

I'm still loving the new camera! Here are a few candids that are my favorites:

Happy mid-week, friends. Be back soon with some knitting & recipes.

Welcome to my garden

2010-05-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

Some of my first blooms. I've started a perennial journal, and realize that I have lost several plants over the past years. Just purchased some Blue Bells, Pink Garden Phlox and a Japanese Iris. Those will go in the ground today.

My Nana's yellow iris. Nana has been gone for many years but her Iris bulbs continue to bloom each year. The most hardy bloom in my garden.

Tribbles, a quick to finish project that is used all the time in my kitchen. Also is a nice little gift to give along with a scented body wash. Love to knit these in the natural, undyed cotton.

I received this beautiful tropical hibiscus tree for Mother's Day. My task will be to keep in alive. It hosts beautiful blooms. Planning on keeping it in the kitchen and only taking it on the deck for occasions.

Excitement for the week: My son made the dean's list for his second semester of college!!! I'm so very proud of him. Planning a steak dinner for him, in a few weeks, on the shore of Cayuga Lake.

Madison turns 13 on Sunday! I can't believe it! Where has the time gone? Taking her and three friends to the mall, Saturday afternoon, to see "Letters to Juliet" and then to dinner. She had her pick of restaurants and they all decided on Friendlys...works for me! I'm actually taking a friend along, too! She's a brave soul:)

Working tonight. Back to my three 12 hour shifts. Love it. Feels like I am home all the time. Took a break from any OT for the past month. Feeling regenerated. Staffing has gotten better. My patient load has only been 6 or 7 patients, vs the 8-10 when we were short. My time management skills are improving. When a 12 hour shift seems to go by in 6, time management is of essence.

The sun is finally shining, it's time for a walk. Happy upcoming weekend, friends.

No excuses now:)

2010-05-02T17:31:00.000-07:00

Now that I have a new laptop and camera, I have no excuses to not be updating my blog. I love to blog, however; my equipment had been on the downfall. Some friends have asked for updates, and my daughter pointed out that I have "snow" pics in my last post. It's my promise to now update my blog at least once a week, as well as start a flickr "picture a day" project. I enjoy reading several blogs, but one of my favs is Leslie's "a friend to knit with" blog. I've been reading it for over two years. And Jules, if you are reading this..I will have recipes again:)

Since Mother's Day weekend is my weekend to work, it was very nice to attend a mother/daughter banquet tonight at our church, the theme being "a purse driven life"..fun!

Besides knitting, Madison and I have been playing with beads. We made two bracelets for the banquet, as door prizes. We will be selling these types of bracelets/rings to benefit the upcoming Relay for Life.

Knitting...finishing up some baby items at this moment.

For the past two weeks, I have been working just my three 12 hour shifts and have really been enjoying this! I will be able to make it to all of Madison's ball games:)

Logan is just finishing up his second semester, I'm very proud of his accomplishments..for those of you with teenagers..they do finally mature!

Snow please!

2010-02-08T09:50:00.000-08:00

So, my theory being, if it's going to be this cold, lets get a big ole' snowstorm. Here in northeast, PA..we have had just one storm that actually delivered enough snow to make a substantial snowman. I'm thinking we need to move south to enjoy snow? Here are a few pics from the one and only enjoyable snowstorm from a few months back.

Wow, looking back..it's been awhile since I have posted a blog..five months to be exact!

Just a little update..
A year in nursing: One year on 8NW med surg unit as of January 19th, 2009. I still absolutely LOVE being a nurse! The experience that I am gaining on this floor is amazing. The three, 12 -hour shifts work out really nice, also. Except for a heal spur, everything is wonderful.
Knitting: Actually, knitting up a storm in the past few weeks. Will have some pics to come.
Family: Logan is taking another 15 credits this semester, working at the YMCA and pumping gas. Madison continues with dance, recently going to Atlantic City, to take a weekend of dance lessons with crew from The Pulse. She also is having fun with choir and forensics, through the school.
Upcomings: A three night trip to Hope Lake Lodge at Greek Peak with Jay and the kids starting 2/21. We are all anticipating this trip:)
Planning a trip with my friend, Renee, to Spin a Yarn and out to lunch for her b-day this month. Wow..not too much going on in the "upcomings" catagory..and kinda like it that way:)

Cross your fingers that we might have a touch of snow this week, Jay has promised to cross country ski with me:)

Justa Swingin'

2009-09-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

My little sanctuary...

Thought I would share one of my most favorite spots, my little corner of the world...my swing bed. A place for reading, knitting, relaxing with my hubby and a glass of wine or two. I have to say, for the past few days, in between doing laundry, grocery shopping and making dinner, I've enjoyed my little "retreat"

My upwards view:

Teetering on the Fence of Fall and Summer...

It's that time of year..chilling mornings requiring a long sleeved shirt, then beautiful, sunny afternoons. I bought the "scent of the month" Yankee tart, yesterday...Pumpkin Frost..smells heavenly. This is the time of the year that I start to get excited for fall to arrive but yet wanting a few more hot summer days at the lake. This is the time of the year when my Mother's garden zinnias are at their biggest. A time when I no longer want to make summer salads, but think about making casseroles, roast beef dinners and baked goods. Of course, it's also that time of year when I start to think more about the knitting projects that I want to complete. Speaking of projects, I have two in the midst for Violet and Henry..two sweet little additions to our family. I can't wait to meet them in person. It's also a time when Jay keeps bringing tomatoes into the kitchen from our little horseshoe pit converted 3x3 garden..more tomatoes than a 3x3 should ever produce.

After a few days off, I'm ready to work a 7p-7a shift tonight. As I look back, I've been working 45-50 hours a week, but I still feel like I am at home more than before and for some reason I have much more energy than I ever have.

Madison is an official "high schooler" now. Having a hard time believing that she's in 7th grade. In the past month, we have allowed her to wear some "very light" makeup..a little lavender or light blue shadow and a little light pink blush..but NO BLACK eyes. So far, she's doing fine with wearing just a little. Logan is taking a full load at LC for the fall semester. With classes like Human Bio, Psych and Algebra, he will be kept busy.

Enjoy your week, my friends, I'll be back soon.

Back to the blog!

2009-08-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

I've really neglected my blog..not purposely, time just flew by.

I've been on a busy, high acuity med/surg floor for 6 months, now. My patient average is 6-7. I have learned so much, but still so much more to go. Feeling much more confident and really feel like part of the team. The sunrises and sunsets are very beautiful from the 8th floor. Each day brings a whole new adventure. I may have a day that doesn't go quite as smooth as I would like, but then the next day balances it out. Besides being a wife and mother, nursing is my passion for life.

We have enjoyed the boat much more this summer, than last. Our latest trip was from one end of Cayuga to the other. (Ithaca to Aubur). We enjoyed a great, dock side lunch at the Boat Yard Grill. Hiked and climbed a six foot tree house at Cayuga Nature Center.

Planning a trip to Sampson State Park on Seneca Lake, this weekend. The weather is supposed to be perfect:)

We surprised my in-laws with a 50th anniversary dinner party at the Villa Senna, last weekend. It was really nice to have all of Jay's family together. The weather cooperated for a perfect evening. I'm blessed with wonderful in-laws.

Peaches! My peach tree is so loaded with peaches that a large branch broke from the weight. Making peach crisp and pairing that with vanilla ice cream. Promised my girls on 8NW this treat tonight.

Surprisingly, I haven't done much knitting this summer! I do have a few projects on the needles that I need to get back to. Will post some upcoming pictures.

Purchasing a camera this weekend. I've been without one for the past 6 months. Time for a me-treat!

Promises to be back sooner than later:)

MAY DAYS

2009-05-20T07:31:00.000-07:00

Wow! Have I been neglecting this blog! I just realized that it has been almost two months since I posted. So much has been going on in the last two months...

#1. I took my boards on 4/19. So glad that this chapter of my life is now over with! I've been on my own since the end of April, off orientation, and taking a full patient load, (6-8 patients).

#2. We took a trip to DC a few weeks back. Had a wonderful time visiting the zoo and touring DC. It was especially nice to have Kelly & Mike as our official tour guides and to also finally see where they live.

#3. Logan attended his first prom. Love him with all my heart, but my oh my does he test his mama. Two weeks of school left..senioritis.

#4. Madison had her birthday on Saturday, 5-16, turning 12. Our weekend was filled with dance recitals. Another excitement, after several softball games of her not hitting the ball, she slammed the ball twice last night! woohoo! She's our artsy dancer & singer and this is her first year playing..so she isn't quite as aggressive as the other girls.

#5. Searching for the perfect knitting projects....nothing to report at this time, except that I purchased some beautiful blue/gray silky fiber..intended for a whispie summer shaw.

#6. Perennial gardens look pretty good. My hubs is getting to be quite the gardener..and he's getting pretty good at not mistaking my plants for weeds.

#7. A new favorite way to make potatoes: boil red potatoes, unpeeled. Roast garlic (unpeeled) in aluminum foil until soft. Sautee fresh chives from the garden in butter. Add chives & roasted garlic paste to potatoes. Salt & pepper. YUM. My family loves these potatoes.

#8. Can't wait for our wine trip on 5/30, with friends! Pulling the boat to the marina in Watkins Glen, then a day of wining followed by sunset boating and dinner on the shore.

Love this pic of Emily in front of my forget-me-nots..she loves to come visit Aunt Karen.

Happy Memorial Weekend, my friends! Remeber to give thanks to the Veterans. I'm thinking of my friend, Susan. Her son, a Marine, was killed in Iraq, March, 2007.

TGIF~

2009-03-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

Well, friends, it's been awhile..time got away from me! Madison is spending the night with her Gram and Logan is on a date....oh, forgot...teens don't call it "a date" anymore...I think they call it "hanging out". Quiet night for Jay and I featuring the movie "Bella", popcorn, cabernet and a brewsky.

Survived my first week of night shift, decided it's definitely my for take. Had today off, and working my first weekend, tomorrow.

SPRING! Captured this picture of a sure sign of spring..mud and bright colored rubber boots!

Kid update: Logan joined track, throwing shot put. Mads continues with dance, Towanda Children's Choir and soon will start her first year in softball. I'm looking forward to watching ball games again..miss the days of "Little League".

Knitting - none! Yes, missing it. Fibers will start flying once I get the boards over. I've got some projects in mind for a few expecting mamas.

I've been experiencing the new world of Facebook. This blog is my baby, but Facebook is a great way to reconnect with the past. I was very excited to find a childhood friend/neighbor on FB!

When "Auntie" gets to spoil little Anna, it always makes me smile:)

My cousin, Kelly, will be running a 1/2 Marathon in DC, tomorrow. She's an ole pro at marathons, but the new twist is that she is 16 weeks pregnant......you go girl!!!!!

Just an update

2009-02-22T21:33:00.000-08:00

It's the end of a weekend..and almost the end of the month..where has time gone?? A little update from life at the Abbott home: We made turkey chowder today from the family cookbook that my friend, Kay, gave me. Fabulous! I made Martha Stewart ginger cookies today. You must try them if you like molasses. I plan to start a walking program tomorrow.....seriously. Jay and I went on a dinner/movie date Saturday night. We saw "The Reader". Karen didn't like the movie. (Think it's being the mother of a teenage boy thing). Wish I picked door number 2..Slumdog (it took the Oscar). Miss Madison enjoyed attending a slumber/birthday party....Logan went to a birthday party as well...but the motherly instinct tells me that it wasn't cake & ice cream he was enjoying...Am I really old enough to have a 17 year old?? The dog is shedding in a very furious way. Is this a sign that spring is coming? Running the cleaner on a daily basis.
Three weeks into my nursing role and I LOVE IT STILL! Having so much fun:) For instance: I wasn't sure how to collect a urine sample from a catheter, so a care partner showed me. We went in to a gentleman's room around 2 Am to collect our sample. He wakes up and says "well..isn't this something...trying to steal urine from a guys tap system". This just struck us sooo funny...still makes me laugh! HA! I put in an NG tube this week...and I put in a male foley cath all by myself (slick as butta). Also had a real good IV stick. Everything went very smooth with one poke. One more week of 3-3's & 3-11's, then doing a week of days, then on to nights. Home until 2 tomorrow. The plan is to study for the boards...and take a walk.

Time Fog..

2009-02-09T09:13:00.000-08:00

One of the biggest obstacles of nursing, thus far, is trying to stay acclimated to what day it is...I spent all day, yesterday, thinking it was Saturday! It wasn't until later in the day that the light bulb came on and I realized that I had better get some school clothes washed.
All of Saturday and part of Sunday were spent fighting a headache, (which I very seldom get). Sunday afternoon involved helping Madison make "I-Pod Valentines". Thanks to PeaKnit for sharing these trendy Valentines. Turned out really cute and just perfect for an 11 year old.I taught Madison how to make "monkey bread", which we pulled out of the oven just as Jay's parents stopped in for a visit. Hot tea and monkey bread...yum!

Started knitting up a quick "drop-stitch" scarf with some hand-dyed yarn that I purchased a year ago and wasn't quite sure what to use it on.

Enjoy this beautiful sun-filled day:)

4:15 am, cold pizza, all is quiet

2009-02-07T01:27:00.000-08:00

Winding down after coming off a 3P - 3:30A shift. Busy night...and I STILL LOVE IT! Let's see..I started an IV tonight, completed a dressing change of a status post left foot amputee, (first time for this newby and yes..I was very nervous when taking off that last piece of gauze)..that later tried to get out of bed, twice. Love being busy, wearing scrubs & NB sneakers to work..and I get a work-out while earning money:) One more week of this second shift, then on to do some first & third. Second is hard on the family time, and definetly not my pick for a shift..but it's ok during this learning phase of my position.

All is quiet here at the Abbott home. Looking forward to spending time with my family this weekend. No big plans...just little "simples" such as making valentines with mads, baking, playing games, enjoying the 45 degree weather that is supposed to hit, jay's pancakes, knitting, narrowing down the planning of our disney trip, picking out paint for the craft/utility room & downstairs bath and just having fun:) Happy Weekend All! ~I don't return to work until Tuesday at 3~

PS - Go RED! Friday was national Go RED day. A day to fight the number one killer of woman - heart disease. Buy a beautiful "red dress" pin and proceeds are donated to the fight against heart disease.

It's time to sleep.

STEELERS!

2009-02-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

Saying a big WOOHOO from a household of Steeler's fans! What a game!!

Love it!

2009-01-29T06:37:00.000-08:00

I'm still alive! Started the new position on the med/surg unit Monday, I worked 3p to 3a..most of the night flew by..very busy. Second shift definetly isn't the shift for me, since I don't get to see the kids before they go to bed, but it will only be for a few weeks, for the experience. I will be rotating around shifts through my preceptor program, to be sure to get all experiences. As of last night, I had two patients and getting the hang of using the computer system to deliver meds. Within two days, I have gotten to insert a catheter, ng tube, try my hand at an IV start, dress a wound, etc! Definetly can see why med surg is a good place for a new nurse to get experience. LOVE wearing scrubs..comfy!
Have Friday and the weekend off. Plan to pick the kids up after school and head up to the unit to pick up my first paycheck. Thought they would enjoy seeing where mom works.

Finished another pair of Evangaline mitts for a friend. Currently working on a pair of fisherman's wool mittens..just plain..my first mittens.

A mid-week update

2009-01-21T16:23:00.000-08:00

Well, three days into the new position and I'm loving it so far! Of course, I have only hit orientation (classroom), and will continue this for the remainder of the week and next Monday. Will finally "hit the floor" next Tuesday. I went up to visit the 8th floor, med/surg, where I will be working......let's just say that I will definetly be getting my exercise! So far, I have met an array of very enthusiastic nurses, confirming that the pathways in nursing are endless. I hope to be taking my boards by mid-March, and then will decide on which college to continue the education trek.

Enjoying spending time with Madison..back to being "dance mom", as I shuffle her to her back-to-back Wed. night lessons and children's choir.

Knitting another pair of Evangalines..love those things!

Baby it's cold outside!

2009-01-17T16:19:00.000-08:00

It's actually 27 degrees today..much warmer than the previous days! Finished a couple of knitting projects, including the wrist warmers, toast, which went to my friend Kay, for her birthday. ..I made her model them for a picture, when all of us got together at Applebees for dinner the other night.

Finished the Evangaline mitts and had Melissa model them for a pic, as she enjoys a glass of "Fran Cat" from Pickering Winery.

Today is the last day off, before the new job, tomorrow. The last 10 days have flown by, but I'm really excited to finally start my new career. I was able to get on the road to being "organized" while I was off.

50 questions...

2009-01-15T09:35:00.000-08:00

Fifty questions per day, as of today. Hopefully, I can increase that to 75/day. Starting to prepare for my boards. ..I have definitely been on a "honeymoon" since the final exam..time to get back to the grind and tackle these questions! I have sent for my temporary practice permit, but have a goal to take my boards by mid-March. Using a calendar to mark the number of questions being studied, each day.

A full week off and it's flying by quickly. Managed to clean out and organize the hall closet and bathroom closet, today.

Knitting: Met a friend last evening for a glass of wine and some knitting lessons. I'm sure she will get the hang of it quickly, as she was taught as a child. I finished my friend's birthday gift and will give it to her this evening. Meeting the girls for dinner:)

On the needles now, is the second Evangaline. I knit one several semesters ago and was so proud to show my classmates my first cable pattern, however...I never got around to knitting the second one..so here we go:)

Lucy's finally done:)

2009-01-11T05:39:00.000-08:00

With a winter blizzard that hit yesterday morning, it seemed the perfect opportunity to "cozy in" and finish my mother's Lucy bag. Using almost two skeins of Nature Spun wool in "pepper", I really like how she turned out. I have made several of these bags, and no two are the same. I love how the Lucy bag fits so nice on the arm. My project for today is going to be a "wristlet" version of a Lucy...probably using 1/2 skein of wool.

The girls and I spent some time at "Brewed Awakenings" coffee shop yesterday. Madison's friend, Katie brought her knitting along and I taught her to bind off. The owner of the shop came over to our table and said, "this is great, more kids need to be doing stuff like this, rather than always texting or playing videos." I told her that she had the perfect little shop to have a "knitting night" and she thought that was a great idea! Notice in the picture that MY daughter takes no interest in knitting..she knows how, but at the moment is not interested:(. Katie, on the other hand, spent another night with us and started another scarf!

Everything is white and the snow is still lightly coming down. I have a feeling that today's agenda will include sled riding

Do you remember when...

2009-01-09T17:37:00.000-08:00

Remember when..you were 11 and the funnest thing was to have your friend ride the bus home and spend the night! It's Friday night and I have 2 eleven year olds that are having a ball..so far it's been a dinner of Chinese take-out, karaoke and when I just peaked in her room they had a pedicure center set up, complete with my bubbling foot mas sager!

The last time Madison's friend was here, I taught her to knit...I was so impressed when she returned this weekend with a very long knitted scarf, ready to learn how to bind off!

Tomorrow morning holds a trip to a quaint little coffee shop with the girls, a hair apt for Mads and then roller skating in the afternoon.

My last day.........bittersweet

2009-01-08T15:53:00.000-08:00

Although I am very excited to get my nursing career started, it was hard leaving the comforts of the past six years. I've made some amazing friends and we vow to stay connected. They were all so supportive during my trek through nursing school. I was thrown a wonderful "farewell" luncheon, yesterday. I wanted to leave them all with something for their desks, something "calming" for when the office gets hectic...I stayed up until 1:30 am making "tranquility stones". Each person got 4 stones: peace, rest, relax & calm. I think I may be addicted to making these!

Early Morning Bus Rides

2009-01-06T18:13:00.000-08:00

The bus pulls up at 6:35 am, yes..6:35 am. Out the door they go with hot cocoa, protein drinks & toasted egg sandwiches wrapped in waxed paper. The last two mornings have been beautiful since we've been "practicing" getting organized. The big changes will come in a few weeks when I start my nursing career. The first two weeks will be day shift, going through trainings, HR stuff and then a week in the lab. After that, I think I want to try the night shift..major changes for this 8-4 office girl.

Notice they both have smiles as they head out to catch their Grandpa's bus, in the pitched dark. So far, all is running smooth:)

My first "real" stethoscope

2009-01-04T18:01:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my Mom, I will be receiving a Littman Classic II SE Stethoscope, seal blue in color, with my name engraved. The stethoscope from nursing school was falling apart. Since performing assessments will be my major duty as a nurse, a good stethoscope is a must.

This week will be my last week at the counseling center. I'm going to need a lot of tissues, come Thursday. I've made some wonderful friends. Haven't even started to clean out my office.

Productive weekend for Jay and Mads - they put a 24 x 22 ceiling in our family room. Madison put many of the tiles in, as Jay handed them to her..little trooper! We are all very excited to get our downstairs completed, as we really need the added space.

This will be our first week to "practice" getting super organized for school mornings. I helped Madison pick out five outfits and put them on hangers, papers have been signed, bookbags, coats & gloves are ready to go. I've steamed five shirts for Logan..now to get him up 1/2 hour early, since he insists on showering in the a.m.

Mom's Lucy Bag...she's coming along and should be off the needles & felted by mid-week. Purchased a beautiful broach for the front. Can't wait to get it to her (a late Christmas present that she knows about)

We finished out the weekend by going to see a matinee of Disney's Bedtime Stories...Karen was very, very glad when the movie was over!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T18:04:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all! Wishing everyone a fresh new year, filled with happiness and health!
Thought it would be a good day to change the name of my blog. I will continue to blog, but can't promise that I will get a post on, every day. I'm still on the "honeymoon" of finishing nursing school, enjoying my family & friends. Will have some upcoming pictures of a few knitted items soon. Hoping to get a few more friends knitting this year. Gave a gift of knitting accessories to a friend the other evening and promised her an upcoming knitting lesson over a few glasses of wine. Still have one friend that is trying her damnedest to knit, but her knuckles turn white with tension...kinda defeats the r-e-l-a-x-a-t-i-o-n of knitting. Then there's my friend, Renee..who still patiently is waiting for me to show her how to knit the handles on her Lucy bag. This weekend, I promise!!

Feeling some anxiety of leaving my old job..last day being Jan. 8th. Mostly due to the fact that I just adore my co-workers and have made some great friends. I must admit the other anxiety is going from a job that I know everything about and could do it with my eyes closed...to a brand new job as a nurse. I guess it's a combination of anxiety/excitement.

To my nursing sistas - can't wait to hear how you all are doing!!! We must get together in a few months to tell our nursing stories. The PA girl will head to NY. Honestly, one night after getting out of work, I automatically started heading up Rt 17...it's hard to break old habits. Remember girls, if it gets too stressful, pick up some knitting needles and knit your a-- off, it's a great stress reliever:)
Dates~Jay and I went to the Grovedale Winery, (a very impressive place with some great cab), last weekend, and then out dancing. Looking forward to another hot date on January 10th.
Taking the kids to Barnes & Nobles on Saturday to let them spend their gift cards..I wish I had my own gift card to B&N..my fav store! While they are shopping, I'll have my own agenda of checking out the newest med/surg pocket references and knitting books.

Marbles~ remember the old fashioned marble board? We pulled that out New Year's Eve, (the one my Dad made in shop class), and played a few rounds. Forgot how fun it is. The only thing is that I'm impatient and am always telling someone "it's your turn..go". I got a joy out of knocking people back to home:) Marbles...the highlight of our New Year's Eve.

Something new that I'm starting ~ 365 days of flickr..which means I will take a picture every day and post in a flickr account, on this blog. By this time next year, it will be fun for me to reflect back on each day's pic.

Have a super weekend, everyone!

Job Acceptance

2008-12-27T04:03:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a joyous and peaceful Christmas. Ours was wonderful, but I have to admit that I was utterly one of those last minute shoppers..racing to a few stores before they closed Christmas Eve..not cool. Definitely won't happen next year. We did have a nice Christmas Eve with Jay's parents/family and it was very nice to open our gifts Christmas morning, host a nice breakfast for Jay's parents and then spend the entire day at home before heading to my parents in the evening.
By the way..The Christmas Shoes was the winner for the most popular Christmas movie on my poll. Now let me tell you, I purchased the sequel to this movie called "The Christmas Blessing" which is about the little boy all grown up. We didn't get a chance to watch it until last evening and I was literly sobbing at the end of this movie.

I have accepted a position as a med/surge nurse and will start January 19th! After being interviewed for two different positions and taking some time to think about each position and what was offered, I decided that I wanted to start out my nursing career in med/surg, as I will gain the most experience with this position. I still want to be an oncology nurse, but I feel that it is so import to get a good foundation in med/surg. I valued the opinions of nurses in my family, as well as co-workers/friends that are nurses. I know I'm making the right decision..it just feels right to me. My last day at my current job will be Jan. 8th..I will miss so many people there. Taking 10 days off before starting my new job. This will be my time to get my house organized.

At this point, I am just having fun! Knitting, reading, playing games with the kids, catching up with friends, going on dates with Jay (dancing this evening..woohoo) and a little shopping, too. Mads, Amy and I are headed to the mall this morning to exchange and purchase a few items.

I got to shop for new nursing scrubs the other day, thanks to my Aunt. I have my first set of "trendy" scrubs!!

Have a great weekend!

The ultimate WOOHOO

2008-12-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

Nursing school is officially over and it feels wonderful! I'm still trying to train myself not to head up Route 17 as soon as I leave work..it's been such a routine for so long. I will definitely miss my classmates, but several of us have vowed to stay in touch. With the last class ending during such a busy month, several of our classmates were not able to meet for dinner after the final. Although it would have been perfect for all of us to have gotten together, the handful of us that did, had a great time.

I've been asked by several blog readers, to keep this blog running. I'm in the midst of a transition, a new chapter in my life will soon start, but I will do my best to keep bloggin'. I have interviewed for two different positions and spent this past weekend weighing out the differences of each position. I feel like a race horse that is awaiting the gate to open! The ultimate hurdle still needs to be surpassed..preparing and passing my boards. After taking a breath and enjoying Christmas, I will start the Kaplan Review Program. My goal is to get licensed within 12 weeks, commiting to two hours of review per day, after 12/25.

Seems nice to have more time with my family. Tonight, we were sprawled out on the floor, playing Sorry and Madison already has another game lined up for tomorrow evening.

I feel very lucky & fortunate to have such wonderful family, friends, co-workers and church family. So many words of empowerment have been sent my way in the past three years. My husband being my biggest supporter. I couldn't have done it without all of them. Thank you with all my heart. My dream has come true.

The day I've been waiting for

2008-12-17T03:50:00.000-08:00

Well, it's finally here. The last day of nursing school. An emotional evening ahead. It was so sweet Monday night. I arrived at class to find that each set of two desks held a beautiful box. No explanation as to who it was from, just perfectly set upon our desk to greet us. In the box, were two beautiful wrapped dove ornaments..one for each of us. Enveloping the doves, were cards explaining the meaning of the dove. One of my classmates, as busy as she has been, went out of her way to a specialty shop and purchased these wonderful gifts.

All of us are going to Applebees for dinner, after the final. I will be back, later this evening, with pictures. In the past three years, we didn't find a lot of "extra" time to spend with each other, but we spent so much time in the classroom & clinicals together. We started with a large group of 32, ending with an intimate group of 15. See you tonight, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Angels & My Dancer

2008-12-14T15:01:00.000-08:00

Nearing the end of an entertaining and busy weekend. I haven't had much time to study for the final, but will be plugging away at it, this evening and the next three days.

Madison, Emily, Gabby & Lily were little choir angels Saturday evening at the church.

We enjoyed "An Old Fashioned Christmas Pageant" at our church, Saturday night...complete with a real donkey. That Lily is soo cute!

Another entertainment was Madison's Christmas dance recital this afternoon. I wasn't able to take pictures during the actual recital, so we snapped a few by our tree.

With the flowers that her Daddy got her....

Finally able to share a picture of my fun purse - pattern from the book One Skein Wonders. Knit & felted in wool/mohair. Isn't it just screaming Christmas Party!!! I hope to put it to good use a few times this month!
To all of you, have a wonderful week! For me, the upcoming week is one that I have waited on for quite a while.

Family Portrait

2008-12-12T21:09:00.000-08:00

The last family portrait that we had taken was in 1998 - ten years ago. That ten year chunk of time seemed to go by so quickly. I'm quite happy with the job that Sears did, and with all the coupons/specials, we were able to order a nice amount of pictures for under $75. We left the mall around 9:15 pm and stopped for a late dinner.

October came & went and I had wanted a nice picture of Jay & I for our 20th anniversary. I like the informality of this picture.

I also wanted a picture of the kids together. We ended up ordering three different poses, but the one at the end is my favorite as it reflects the closeness that those two have for each other. Thank you, Amy, for prompting me to get & keep the apt. for pictures..and it wasn't as stressful as I thought it would be to color coordinate..you are the best!

Just days away!

2008-12-10T18:43:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I've taken the time to update the blog..this would be because I'm flyin' by the seat of my pants, it seems! Officially down to just three nights of class left. A Mirco final test tomorrow evening & then Monday & Wed. next week for Nursing. That's it!! DONE! YIPPEE!

Yesterday, I spent the day observing a Hospice nurse in the community. This will definitely be in my future, once I gain experience.
Christmas shopping? nowhere near done. Wrapping?..yea.right! Cookies?..notta one Decorating? partially, but no tree yet. Somehow, it will get done. I'll get my reality check this Saturday evening, when I'm reminded of what it's all about, as our Church has it's "Old Fashioned Christmas Pageant"..can't wait for this! Sunday will follow with the Christmas Cantata, which I love lisening to. Sunday evening is Madison's Christmas Dance Recital. Jay has been the "dance Dad" so far this year. I've been totally out of the loop. Looking so forward to watching her dance. A very entertaining weekend ahead!!
I did finish a knitting project with a few more needed before Christmas. This one happens to be for me and is screaming "Christmas Party". *Pictures coming soon..still searching for my camera cable:) Knit from the book Oneskein, using bulky wool/mohair. Very fun and knit up quick. Did take three cycles of hot water washes to get the felting that I like.
Scheduled vacation day tomorrow. Day will be split to study for Micro exam & Nursing final.
Major accomplishment - I got my Christmas cards out early! Woohoo!

He's king of the man shed tonight

2008-12-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

I called Jay on his cell at about 4:30, and got this response, "can I call you back, I just shot a buck"..in a low, panting voice. I totally interrupted the adrenaline pumping man hunt. Then I heard those words that a wife doesn't like to hear.."nice rack"..this translates to "deer on wall"..ugh! Glad they have that new man shed..will make a nice place for their "trophies".

Funny thing..I went to pull in the driveway this evening, and there stands a buck in the middle of my flower garden.

After hitting the "refresh" button all the live long day, my grade finally popped up around 3:30...breathing a sigh of relief this evening! Home from class by 8:30 tonight..done for the week:)

I couldn't resist showing this cutie-pie picture of my four nieces. Looks like they were helping Grandma with her tree. Can't wait until I have more time to spend with them.

Test from hell

2008-12-03T19:14:00.000-08:00

One of the ugliest nursing exams, this evening. Everyone pretty much looked "spent" after taking this exam. So much reading for each question..and still only 1 minute per question. Have no idea what the outcome will be until grade is posted tomorrow. One more, just one more to go!
I actually drove home in complete silence this evening..no music. Stress headache.

One more night..my partner and I are doing a power point presentation on diphtheria. Looking SO forward to weekend. Not a lot going on, but will finally get some time to get the house in order and put up a few decorations. Since I had a rough night, Jay aked me on a date for Saturday night..my choice and I picked Twigs, but not before going to Nimble Hill Winery.

Madison was beaming tonight and couldn't wait to tell me that she had no homework, since she was one of the top three with the highest math test grade. Wish Logan had that much enthusiasm..

Finished my last clinical weekend~Woohooo!

2008-12-01T18:41:00.000-08:00

My last full clinical rotation is completed. I missed Madison singing in church on Sunday, but Jay was there for her. Spent this past weekend on the Oncology floor. From what I have heard, this floor is hiring one new grad. I'm hopeful. Twenty-three new grad positions throughout the hospital. Whirlwind, that's what I feel like I am in at the present time. Only a few more weeks of class, but still quite a bit of studying left in the game. Nursing exam #4 this week, then the final on the 17th. A few more weeks of Micro, including giving a powerpoint presentation on Diphtheria this Thursday, followed by the ending exam next week. Many dates to remember for the kids' activities. Senior football banquet this Sunday. Church Christmas pageant on Saturday evening, 13th (this always gets me in the spirit for Christmas), Christmas dance recital Sunday evening, 14th. I still have corn stalks out front and a fall wreath, but at least Jay ditched the pumpkin. With having a final exam the week before Christmas, decorating/baking will be simplistic this year. We have always had a tradition on Black Friday, of getting out a few decorations and making Christmas crafts. We did manage to stamp gift tags, but didn't get to the decorations. I had a great picture to share..but can't find my camera cable this evening:(
No buck for my guys today..but a big racked buck kissed the front of Jay's truck the other night, causing a few thousand dollars of damage. The guys are enjoying the new "man shed" (meat shop) that my brother has been working diligently at for months.
Looking around, my housework needs some major attention that isn't going to happen until Saturday morning. Three more late night classes to go, then Christmas shopping on Friday with my Mom & Sis!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T07:15:00.000-08:00

Just stopping by to wish all a wonderful Thanksgiving! We will be heading to my parents' for dinner. After a family crisis this week, we are all so thankful that my newphew, Austin, is home from the hospital and will ok.
Outcome for November's poll: 20 votes entered with PumPkiN piE winning (sorry Kelly), StuFFin' followed close behind in second place.
FYI: Do you want to take a nap after Thanksgiving Dinner?? Of course, you do! But it's not from the natural sedative in turkey (Tryptophan), the tiredness is your body's response to the energy needed to break this meal down. Sorry for the nerd fact, but until this year, I was blamming the turkey:)

A night to relax

2008-11-21T15:37:00.000-08:00

After what seems to have been a very long week, it's nice to just relax this evening. Trying to fight off cold symptoms. Weekend plans include starting some Christmas knitting, doing very little cleaning, finishing The Shack, cooking & making crafts with Madison and repairing some torn wallpaper in the hallway. Tonight would be the perfect night to have a crackling fire in the fireplace..if I had one. I know it's not practical, but I want a real fireplace. For now, I'll be happy with the glow from my wine light that Kay made me:)

A few good reasons for a WOOHOO!
Janelle's husband made it through surgery and they are home this evening.
Today I met with a nurse recruiter for an informal meeting. It felt great!
~Enjoy your weekend, friends~

Please say a prayer for Gary & Janelle

2008-11-19T15:17:00.000-08:00

I am asking anyone that reads this blog to say a prayer for my friend Janelle and her husband, Gary. They are at Geisinger Medical Center this evening and Gary is having an extremely risky surgery, tomorrow morning. Gary has a large aneurysm that is pulsating against his nasal cavity. Surgery is inevitable for this man, and he faces it Thursday morning, early. What makes the surgery extremely risky is that Gary has a clotting disorder which is modified with Heparin/Coumadin therapy..which makes him a bleeder. They have three young children.
They have strong faith and appreciate the prayers.
It takes a crisis like this to remind us that we shouldn't sweat the small stuff in our everyday lives.
Thank you

blizzard

2008-11-18T18:44:00.000-08:00

So glad to finally get home this evening. Who was I to think that I might actually finish out this semester without having to drive in nasty weather! After class, I ran something over to Target to exchange for my sister, then right back on the road to get home. Route 17 turned treacherous, but the stretch of road between Nichols and Rome almost put me in the field..not because I was going too fast - only able to go about 10 mph, but I couldn't FIND THE ROAD! Of course, not a state plow truck to be seen. Someone was in a ditch, but I couldn't get stopped to see if they needed help, nor would I have been able to find a place to pull off. The driver was on a cell, so I assumed he was calling for help. Once I got through Rome, the roads were dry..weird.

I walked in the door to find this beautiful snowflake hanging in the kitchen. Miss Mads whipped it up while I was gone! I had brought one home from work that someone had made and I wanted to figure out how it was created, but Madison beat me to it. She promises to teach me, tomorrow night!

The Shack

2008-11-16T17:10:00.000-08:00

After spending 16 hours of this weekend on the oncology floor, I am 120% sure that this is my purpose for becoming a nurse. I worked with amazing nurses and care partners and I definitely want to become part of their team. I was very excited to be called into the nurse manager's office, after she heard that myself and another student were interested in working at this hospital. Our group was very well received this weekend, and the staff were happy to have the extra help, as it was extremely busy. My best clinical experience thus far.

I decided that tonight would be the perfect time to start reading a book that was given to me, along with a hug, a few months ago. I have been eyeing this book on my bookshelf; however, knowing that I needed to keep up on my nursing lecture readings, I hadn't allowed myself to start it. The Shack has received so many excellent reviews, as you can tell from having it's own website. I have heard that the book is hard to put down, being so uplifting & powerful.

NOTICE the cake?? Well..how about cake without the fatty calories..2 ingredients, my friends. A friend informed me about making this cake and raved about it...with good reason! A cake mix and a 15 oz can of pumpkin..nothing else - mix the two ingredients together and add to a 9x13 cake pan, bake at 350 until done. No eggs, no oil! I served it to my family for dessert, tonight...they loved it! My friend said that you can use any flavor cake mix. This is a must try recipe! I chose a spice cake, but I hear chocolate is great, also. I did add a thin layer of frosting, but a light dusting of powdered sugar would be less calories.

WooWHooooo!

2008-11-12T19:26:00.000-08:00

That's how I am feeling this late Wednesday evening:) Sailed through my med pass test with no problems and I stayed calm through the entire pass... I almost forgot to flush my saline lock before hooking up my line, but caught myself. Prior to going in to the med pass, I found out that I got my highest grade ever, on Monday night's exam! I'm elated!

This has been a tough week, with one more late night, tomorrow. Feel like I haven't seen my family much this week. Friday night is going to be movie night & making homemade ice cream. Madison is itching to use her new ice cream maker. I just want to relax with my family.

I'm blessed with so many supportive, loving people in my life..truly blessed. My Mom made my family a beautiful dinner this evening and even sent a plate home for me. One of my classmates insisted on waiting for me to finish my med pass this evening. When I came out of the lab, there she was sitting in the hall, crocheting up a storm..waiting to hear my results. When I turned on my phone, I had an encouraging message from my friend & co-worker, Kay. Instead of playing my music loud and singing like a crazy woman this evening, I found myself driving down 17 at 9:30, in silence..feeling humbled by the support & kindness of so many people.

A little knitting before the test tonight

2008-11-10T17:53:00.000-08:00

Nursing exam #3 this evening. For the past few tests, I was reviewing right up to five minutes before the exam..not this one. Karen could be seen knitting up a storm in the back corner. Didn't put the yarn away until the bubble sheet him my desk. Got a few more inches added on Madison's scarf. This technique really chilled me out. Date with the Simms man Wed. night for my med demo...wonder if Mr. Simms would care if I brought my string & sticks along?

Home by 7:30. Just in time to help Mads whip up chocolate chip cookies.

Earlier this month, I finally took some time and taught my niece, Emily, to knit-she's been patiently waiting. I created a little knitting monster..she was exhausted that evening, but didn't want to put her knitting down..so cute! She had about 6 inches of scarf done before she went to bed that evening.

And here is a picture of Jay's fingerless gloves. The next pair need to be a little bigger.

I'll miss those games...

2008-11-09T15:45:00.000-08:00

Last evening ended the football season with Towanda having 28 and Montoursville having a lot more at this district playoff game.. We had heard that the opponents were huge - that wasn't a rumor. Logan is 6 foot & 200 pounds and many were bigger than him. A lot of tear-filled eyes and hanging heads as they made their way from the locker room..Those boys definetly wanted to keep playing. What saddened me was the fact that we have been watching several of those boys, including our own, play organized football since they were in 3rd grade..where did the time go? Logan has his mind set that he wants to play college ball. Who knows, he may have a chance at it. He's scheduled to take his SAT's in early December, then he can start applying to the colleges that he is looking at. In the next few weeks, we will be getting copies of all the taped games and get them edited and ready to send out. One thing is sure, he will have to become very familiar with two words..self discipline.

At the kitchen table

2008-11-08T11:30:00.000-08:00

In the beauty seat this morning by 7:15 am for color & highlights, (thank you Mia!), then to the grocery store & back home by 11:00. In the mood for soup making. Decided on corn chowder & homemade beer bread, (used Jay's last can of brewsky). Since most of the day is devoted to studying for Monday's exam, I thought soup & bread would be the way to go.
I like to have several candles lit, when I study..not sure why..just do. Kitchen is smelling of soup, bread, & chardonnay scented candles. Table is covered with notes, books & Madison's art supplies & lit candles. Jay has been enjoying the day, as well..doing the "puttering" things that guys do, (washing vehicles, organizing stuff, admiring his work while drinking a beer, winterizing things).
Logan is on his way to Montoursville, for a district playoff game. Jay and I will leave around 5:00, to get down there for the 7:00 kickoff..should be exciting!

First time making the beer bread..so simple and very tasty! Check out the recipes, below.

Easy Beer Bread

3 cups of self-rising flour
3 T. sugar
1 12oz can of your favorite beer

Mix together just until blended. Drop mix into greased, 5x9 bread pan. Bake at 375 for 45-60 minutes..listen for "hollow" sound on bottom of pan. While warm, shine the top with melted butter.*I also added 1/2 c of oatmeal and 1 T of honey..might have been able to not use any sugar, and just use the honey.

Corn Chowder

3 cans of sweet corn
2 cans of cream of celery soup
dices onion & carrots (to your liking)
3 or 4 potatoes, peeled & diced
4 or 5 pieces of bacon, fried & broken up
1 & 1/2 c whole milk or heavy cream
2 T flour (mix with enough hot water to be runny)
salt & pepper
cook in the crock pot on high for two hours, then simmer on low for a few more.

Enjoy your evening. Heading to Montoursville for an exciting football game!

VW Jetta..I think I want one

2008-11-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

I've been buzzin up & down Rt 17 with this VW Jetta rental and it seems that the gas gage is hardly moving..I like this! Unlike the SUV that sucks up about $25 per trip. Since Logan wasn't old enough to have the rental, Mom gets the rental and Logan is driving my trailblazer. In & out of Mircro lab within 45 minutes tonight..not too shabby. Home by 8:00 pm..nice. Jay is currently taking on the task of cleaning out the fridge..I like that man.

Forgot to mention the results of last Friday's FB game..what a fun game that was! Towanda 35, Wyalusing 6. Here is Logan, after the game...I buy stock in Shout stain remover.

Goal is two chapters/day of readings for Nursing Today, Transitions & Trends. One chapter at 5:00 AM and one each evening..better get moving. I got my 5 am reading in this morning, now for this evenings..

Knitting update: working on the second of the wool fingerless gloves for Jay. Wanted to have had them done for our lunch date yesterday, but no chance..especially with all this reading.

My girlfriend sent me a picture of the "Lucy Evening Bag" that I made her for her 40th..she put it to good use on her recent trip to Mexico and I love that it is sittin' pretty between two glasses of Cabernet.

Happy Birthday Jay!

2008-11-03T04:24:00.000-08:00

Awwh, honey..Cheer up..It's your birthday! You don't know it yet, but I took the day off from work to surprise you with a lunch date! Happy 43rd Birthday!

It has to be fate..

2008-11-01T16:55:00.000-07:00

January, 2006, I sat by my Aunt as she fought her last week of ruthless cancer. I remember rubbing her hand and she said to me, "you are going to make a good nurse". I have never forgotten that moment. One week after my Aunt died, I started my first semester at BCC. More than once, I cried, recalling my Aunt's death experience to my classmates and Professor Jen. Several of my classmates cried with me. Just a few semester's ago, our lecture content covered death & dying, again, I broke down in my class when I told Instructor Barbara of my Aunt's final moments.
Today, I found out that I will spend my last clinical rotation of the BCC program on 5 main. The oncology/med surge unit where my Aunt was cared for. This has to be fate. From day one I have known that I wanted to be an oncology nurse, that hasn't changed - even with all the different clincal experiences that I have had. I wasn't even supposed to be in this last rotation at this hospital, I was supposed to be at Binghamton General. I asked to be switched, and was allowed. Until I arrived today, I thought I was just doing a straight med/surge rotation..I had no idea that I would get the opportunity to work in Oncology. We took a tour through the unit and I vividly remembered the last time that I had been there. I tried to tell my husband and parents of my experience, today..but found it hard to get the words out. The first person that I knew I wanted to tell of today's experience was my Aunt Maryann, but knowing that I would get emotional...it's easier to share my story here. It's fate. Life is amazing.

We are not having clinical on Sunday, so we had no patient contact today, just reviewing films, procedures, etc per hospital requirements. I look forward, when we return in two weeks, to giving the best care that I can give to my patient.

Thanking God

2008-10-30T17:05:00.000-07:00

I was in my car, reviewing my microbiology notes for a 6:00 exam this evening. At 5:35 my cell phone rang and it was Jay letting me know that Logan had been in an accident. He was rear-ended while sitting with his turn signal on, waiting for a tractor trailer to come by so that he could turn. He was pushed out in front of the tractor trailer, but the trailer managed to get between him and the vehicle that hit him. Thank God no one was hurt. I'm sure Logan will be very sore tomorrow. With hearing that news, I got an instant stress headache. I managed to complete exam #2 in 26 minutes and headed home. Thanking God for watching over my son tonight.

The weather, ya think?

2008-10-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

Totally exhausted today! No energy whatsoever..I'm thinking that maybe it's the gloomy weather. Micro lab was short & sweet tonight - in at 6:00 and out by 6:45. Still can't believe that I am actually enjoying that class. Home by 8:00 to find Madison baking cookies for her teacher's birthday, tomorrow. The laptop was on the island, (yikes) and she was following a recipe from Food Network for vanilla sugar cookies, while singing to The Jonas Brothers. She did a great job..really good cookies. My friend & co-worker brought me some pure vanilla from Mexico..what a difference that makes when baking.
As long as we are talking baking, I want to share an old family recipe for Apple Joy Cake. I made two for last Sunday's adventure. Not sure where the recipe originated from, but I do remember my Mom, Nana & Aunt Sandy making this cake. My Uncle Scott commented that "Ma stopped putting the glaze on because it was too sweet for me". He always referred to my late Aunt Sandy as "Ma". I was happy to have made something that brought back memories from the past and especially of my Dear Aunt. I love her.

APPLE JOY CAKE

3 eggs, beaten

Add to that: 1 1/2 c oil

2 c sugar

1t vanilla Stir well.

Add: 3 c flour

1t b. soda

1t salt

Beat all. Fold in 3 c chopped apples

and 1 c walnuts. Bake 1.5 hours at 350 in angel food pan.

Frosting: 1 c brown sugar, 1/4 c milk, 1 /2 stick butter

boil two minutes & pour over cake

OCTOBER POLL RESULTS: 14 votes & wine tasting wins the most votes, followed by a tie for a long drive & tailgate party. One person liked cutting wood, another liked apple picking, and two wanted a hayride. Stay tuned for November's poll next week(gobble, gobble)

I am so glad to have Wednesday off. I plan to catch up on my readings for nursing lecture and study for Thursday's Micro exam. We postponed Logan's senior pictures until a week from Wednesday, as the weather is supposed to be yucky tomorrow (wouldn't be good for outdoor shots). Making broccoli cheddar soup in the crockpot. Wednesday is such a crazy busy night at the Abbott house, the crockpot comes in handy. Madison has dance from 6:30 - 8:15. Logan comes home after school, but then returns for a late night practice. I will leave by 4:00, to get up to the college for lecture and then a late night lab.

Here is some of my new "stash" including the dark brown "fisherman's wool" that I purchased today to make Jay these for his birthday, next week. I think these will be perfect for him since he often works in harsh weather, but can't wear the bulky gloves. These mitts might go over well for hunting season, also. Madison's new LL Bean coat should be delivered tomorrow. The orange, variegated alpaca is for her scarf & hat. Emily's scarf is off the needles.

Searchin' for clues around the family farm!

2008-10-26T14:39:00.000-07:00

A beautiful, fall day. A hotdog roast in a field that overlooks the farm. Family, lots of family. Laughter. Great food. After everyone enjoyed lunch, we all piled on a hayride, mules, kaboda's & rangers. My Dad had planned a special surprise for all of us! He handed us a piece of paper with our first clue of where to go. Clue #1 stated "by 3 poles". Up the power line we went, finding clue #2 at the top, on a pole. Clue # 2 stated "head to the north forty (meaning 40 acre field on the Red Rock Rd...I didn't know this on my own...had help...I probably would have turned my body north and took 40 steps), find the haybale for further instructions". Not only was this a ton of fun, this farm girl learned some things that I never knew about our homestead. Also, it was neat to revisit places that we played as children, and to hear stories from others, on some of their favorite memories of the farm. A total set of 12 clues had us covering just about every inch of the farm. The last clue led us to CHOCOLATE & WINE! Chocolate for the kids, and wine for the adults! This will be my last free weekend for awhile, as clinicals start back up next weekend. I feel "rejuvinated" after this weekend...I think I'm ready to take on my last round of clinicals...bring em' on!

where, oh where could this be....

more clues.....

My Dad gave "hints" on all of the clues..believe me, I would still be

in the woods if iIwould have had to figure this out on my own!

This picture (above) is going to make me smile all week long!

My Aunt Maryann figures out where the next clue is!

Love this picture!

I was amazed at the thought that my Dad put into this fun event - it was definetly enjoyed by everyone! Thanks Dad!

Our last clue led us to a big basket of candy, and a couple nice bottles of wine.

Happy kids...Happy adults!

Great Job Dad!

One tired little Anna after a long day of looking for clues....

Wine Trip

2008-10-25T17:58:00.000-07:00

The rain didn't hold anyone back from enjoying the wineries today. Rasta Ranch was untouchable and poor little Tickle Hill was maxed out with eager wine tasters. Tons of limosines & buses. We ended up at five wineries for the day. Before getting started, Renee & I spent a little time at the Finger Lakes Fiber Shop while the guys visited the local pub. Came out well supplied with a cable needle & some hand painted wool, all set to try my hand at knitting socks, as well as some alpaca & wool for a scarf & hat to compliment Madison's new coat. I enjoyed shopping for yarn with Renee and dinner with friends, much more than the wineries. A little too crowded for me. The four of us have very different tastes for wine, I like the dry wines, ending with a semi-sweet, Jay likes beer, and the Grimes' list consist of semi-sweets, ending with what I consider syrup. We vowed to head back this winter when the fireplaces are lit and everything is blanketed in white.

I just realized that Jay and I have the house to ourselves this evening. Madison is at the Comfort Inn, spending the night at a birthday party and Logan just left to meet some friends. Now..this doesn't come around very often! wink, wink

Woooosh..flying through another week!

2008-10-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

Holy smokes - October is almost over!! This freight train is gaining speeeeeeed! Remember my "special invite" from a previous post..well tonight was the night that we met with UHS. I was greatly impressed with their package..oooh boy was I impressed! Not interested in the commute, though. I'm sure that several of my nursing sista's will be heading their way. Got a gift card to the mall for stopping by..fun!

I missed dance observation night tonight. Mads was so excited to have her Grandma and Dad go, that I'm sure she didn't miss me too much. I stopped at Joannes Fabric, last night, and purchased aqua, "sparklie" fabric. Mom was nice enough to fire up the sewing machine and "help" me make a surprise dance skirt for Mads at 10:00 pm,(well..actually..she sewed the entire thing and I watched). Mom snapped this picture for me, tonight. Endless Mountains Dance Center is putting on a special Christmas recital this year..can't wait!

The Logster had night practice this evening. He arrived home, hungry as a bear, around 9:30. I finally got his senior pictures arranged for next Wednesday at Reflections. Jody is planning to get some shots outside with the Mustang and up to the football field, then back for some traditionals. Hopefully, there will still be some color left on the trees.

One last weekend before clinicals start back up. Weekend is jammed full of fun stuff! Heading to Loyalsock Friday night for football, Saturday is the much anticipated WINE TRIP! Sunday is the family fall weenie roast up on the hill and I understand that my Dad is really getting into this scavenger hunt thing..let's hope for nice weather!

Stay warm, my friends! Hey...don't forget to vote if you have not done so..I see there was a tie today on a few of the activities!

Weekend update

2008-10-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

Friday night was bittersweet. The sweet part was that Jay and I participated in "senior recognition" by walking Logan down the 50 yard line. We had a large section of the bleachers filled with family and friends, including my Dad, (his first game due to hip problems). Logan had some great sacks and even recovered a fumble . It was fun watching my Dad's expressions, as he enjoyed the game. The not-so-sweet part was that they lost...the NTL. With two regular games left in the season, they can easily keep going for several more games...we will see what happens next week, as we head to Loyalsock, PA.

Mads & Emily stop for a pose in Watkins Glen. More like sisters, than cousins.

Spent the day with Mom, Amy, Mads & Emily on Saturday. We headed up to the Windmill, then stopped back in Watkins Glen to the yarn shop. I was like a kid in a candy shop..almost overwhelmed with the many selections & colors.

Emily was as excited about the yarn shop as I was - she can sit for hours and use her round knit-wit..and she's patiently waiting for Aunt Karen to teach her to knit with needles. Amy purchased some alpaca handpainted yarn that was made locally, with the intentions that I would make Emily a scarf & hat to match her new pea coat.Saturday night was spent studying, but I couldn't wait to get started on Emmy's scarf, so I studied, knitted, studied, knitted, studied..until late into the night.

After church on Sunday, we joined everyone for a Pastor's appreciation dinner. Jay and Madison spent a lot of time together Sunday afternoon, while I continued to study.

Off today, exam at 5:00.

TGIF, baby!

2008-10-16T17:28:00.000-07:00

Can't believe that I'm saying TGIF already, seems that yesterday was Monday! If I can get through a crazy day of work, (my co-workers are off, so I'm flying solo today), tonight will be such a fun night! Not only the excitement of the game, but a lot of family will be at this game...and I know we will get rowdy! Tonight is senior recognition night, so Jay and I will get to walk with Logan.

Finished these wrist/hand warmers called Toast, which Madison has already claimed.
Knit up with double-pointed needles. A very quick self -gratifying type project. Just in time for a cold night at the football game, (temp supposed to drop to 40's). I found a great site for all kinds of fingerless mitts..fun! I'm thinking that my guys might like something like this, especially when it comes to hunting. I'm hoping to make a quick stop at the Finger Lakes Fiber Store this weekend to finally get some yarn for the shawl that I'm patiently waiting to knit.

A co-worker asked me today, where I find time to knit. I don't have the time, but I make 15-30 minutes, a few times a week..it calms me. If everyone would learn to knit, there would be less of a need for anti-anxiety meds. Read an article that major league sports stars, high profile lawyers & young, stock traders are decreasing their stress, by knitting.

Big exam on Monday - nursing ethics, legal issues & history of nursing. Have a study budget all worked out for the weekend, starting with the wee early hours of Saturday. Also have Monday off, which will be a big help.

Happy Friday!

20 years

2008-10-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Jay and I - twenty years today. I love you!

Let's take five minutes today, close our eyes and imagine

that we are on a relaxing cruise, just the two of us.....then

reality will hit and I'll be at a late night lecture while you

are shuffling Mads to and from dance class.

We can catch up this weekend, starting with a date

on the bleachers Friday night. Love you~

A beautiful day for a mule ride!

2008-10-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

A Kawasaki Mule, that is! My sister, I and the girls spent most of today "muling" around the farm getting apples, winter pears and bittersweet. I really wanted wild grapes & hickory nuts, but no luck finding them. If we would have ditched the mule, carried some baskets and had calico dresses, we would have set the perfect seen for "Little House on the Prairie - Preparing for the Cold, Hard Winter" I got enough bittersweet to make myself a wreath, but need to get more since Amy threatened to steal the wreath tomorrow, when I leave for work. [My Mom and I saw a plaque that read "A woman without a sister is like a bird without wings] Aww..it's the truth. I love my sis!! The views are amazing. It's gorgeous days like this that remind me to appreciate where I live.

We weren't the only ones riding around enjoying the views, my Dad, Logan & Daisy were out with Dad's Ranger. Who could be inside on a day like today?

And did I mention football?? Another exciting game Friday night! Towanda 48, Tunkhannock 17.

No baking this weekend, but I did whip up some waffles with choc. chips, before church this morning. Recipe compliments of an old Grange Cookbook from my Grandma. Madison made cinnimon & spiced pumpkin seeds that turned out great.

I also enjoyed spending Saturday with my Mom. We don't get to spend much time together, anymore. It seemed nice to browse around some shops and have lunch together.

Studying, reading..notta once! I promised myself to read Monday morning from 5-6 am, with coffee in hand.

Don't forget to enter my poll and vote for your favorite fall activity.

Here's PROOF that when you turn 40, willing to try anything!

2008-10-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

I am SO PROUD of my friend, Karen! Honestly, I couldn't believe it until I actually saw the picture! She rode a horse for the first time in her life! Prior to her event, we exchanged emails throughout the day - I'm sure I didn't help her anxiety level when I gave her this advice, as a prior horse owner: "don't PULL THE REINS BACK TOO HARD..horse could go on hind legs. BUT if horse starts to gallop away, don't panic..PULL HARD ON REINS because better to go up in the air..than to have headlines in tomorrow's Daily Review "Hot blond streak seen headed towards Buffalo"

She threatened that she would wear a bike helmet and snow boots...now look at this picture...she's a confident, babe..and looks like a natural on her horse! Guess this means I need to conquer my fears and go down-hill skiing with her this winter! Here's to turning 40 and broadening the spectrum on life! WooHoo, Karen, Way to go!!

DNA, RNA.blah, blah, blah..

2008-10-09T20:05:00.000-07:00

If it wasn't for the 10 point quiz, the trip to the college would have been a wasted one, this evening. Micro lecture consisted of DNA, RNA..genetics. Glad all the lecture notes are on overhead and printed out for us - my mind just kept wandering. I heard something about nucleotides & ribosomes, but I was in a far off land thinking about the upcoming wine trip, thinking about my much needed hair apt on Saturday at 7 AM, thinking about the yarn I wanted to buy this weekend to knit this. We were tortured with this lecture until 8:35 pm..UGH!
Came home to find that Madison had sold the remainder of Gertrude Hawk candy bars, tonight. Not too shabby - two boxes in one day, (thanks to Amy selling a box, also). Selling these to benefit our graduation dinner party.

BCC mid-semester break Monday & Tuesday.

Let's get this weekend started! Woohoo!

Like a freight train

2008-10-06T19:14:00.000-07:00

It seems that this last semester is flying by and graduation is fast approaching like the speed of a freight train! This makes the 6th week of classes - almost half way there. I finished my last clinical rotation in NY state, this past weekend. Have the rest of my weekends free for October! YIPPEE! Will do my very last clinical rotations, starting on Nov. 1, at RPH. This evening at lecture, I was presented with an "official invitation" to attend an informative session of recruiting for UHS. When I saw my pre-printed name on the invite, it hit me - I'm really almost done! The informative session will explain the benefits & perks that are being offered to the newly graduating nurse, as well as great food & free gifts. This hospital will hand me a $25 gift certificate to the mall, just for stopping by! The sign-on bonuses and free gifts sound great, but what is really important to me is: #1. Does the hospital participate in loan forgiveness, (the hospital pays my student loan). #2 Is tuition reimbursement covered for RN to BSN? #3 What is the nurse to patient ratio?

From deciding on gold or silver for my nursing pin, to getting my portrait taken with the big hat, (yes, we are OLD and we still want our picture with the big hat on)...it's all coming fast!

Off tomorrow and will be studying for my Micro lab exam...the big one. Surprising Madison and taking her to lunch, during her school lunch period. She's doing so much better - no more stomach aches and her grades are super. Logan is interested in Lycoming College and will complete his SAT's in late November. He's working hard this year, and I'm so proud of him~

Will finish another chapter of "Deadly Companions", a book reading requirement for Micro..so far, it's interesting enough to get through one chapter a day...of course, I would rather be reading a Nicholas Sparks novel.

What a game!!

2008-10-04T18:01:00.000-07:00

How about those Black Knights!! It sure was cold, but the football game was great! Ending score, Towanda 40, Wellsboro 12.

Friday was "spirit day" at school. Madison had wanted to take cookies and I told her that I would bake some once I got home from class Thursday night. Arrived how at 9:45 and realized I had one stick of butter and about a half a cup of flour. She was more than happy to settle for Dunkin Donut "smidgens" for her class, but I got a blaze of energy Friday morning, and was at P&C by 5:30 picking up some "break & bake" sugar cookies, as well as some black & orange icing. Threw them in the oven by 6:15..Even though it was quite a slop job, she had her "spirit" cookies and all was well! Even found time to have them pose for a few pictures before their busy day got started.

Up at 4:00 and out the door by 4:45. with coffee in hand. I chose to not pre-assign for my patient information on Friday, (would have missed the game). so I needed to get to the hospital early enough to get all of my patient info, collect all the lab studies, and review the meds. I spent my day with a six week old baby that was having some respiratory distress. I got to give 1:1 care, all day long, to this little precious. Back in Wysox by 4:30. Picked Madison up from the kitchen of the Wysox Fire Hall, where she had been helping her Gram Abbott. Came home to find Jay mowing the yard, which put me in the mood to clean out the gardens....two hours later, all beds are free of dried up flowers & weeds. Decorated the front with some cornstalks & pumpkins..Welcome Fall!

I get to sleep in until 5:00 tomorrow morning! I'm anticipating my clinical day, tomorrow, as I will be surrounded by an island of babies, (I'm working in the nursery)..I hear the number is up to 22!

Prayer, please

2008-09-29T18:40:00.000-07:00

I would like to ask anyone that is reading this blog, to please say a prayer for my co-worker & friend, Janelle and her husband Gary. After traveling to Geisinger Medical Center, they have learned that Gary has a large aneurysm that is pulsating against his nasal bone. He must have surgery to try and stop it, but the risks are very high. Please keep Gary, Janelle and their three young children in your prayers. The power of prayer is amazing. Thank you.

Taking a breather from the care plans

2008-09-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

Since I didn't budget my time, wisely, I'm overloaded with paperwork this evening and needed a little break..The weekend started out with a very soggy football game clear out in no-mans land. We have been watching Logan play FB in Cowanesquie since he was 8 years old..the trip doesn't get any shorter! Score ending 34-14, Towanda. Not much sleep acquired Friday evening, as I was nervously anticipating a call from Logan, letting me know that he and three of his friends arrived safely at Lycoming College.

Madison and my nieces..
aren't they sweet!
Spent Saturday afternoon at the roller rink for Emily's 7th birthday, later Mads and I headed over town for a night of Outstanding Young Woman performances. Program lasted until 11:15 pm..but well worth it.

We picked up some pumpkins after church this morning and I found myself wanting to bake something "pumpkiny" - made some pumpkin spiced bars using a healthier recipe:

4 eggs
1 c sugar
1 c apple sauce
1 16 oz can pumpkin
2 c flour
2 t baking powder
1 t baking soda
2 t cinnamon
1 t salt
3 oz lowfat cream cheese
1 t vanilla
2 c confec. sugar
Beat first 4 ingredients together. Mix dry ingredients, then add to beaten. Spread in deep cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 25 minutes. Mix cream cheese, vanilla and conf. sugar for icing.

Fall not only reminds me of baking, pumpkins, mums and candles...also reminds me of grapes and wine:) A wine trip is in the making for the month of October..can't wait!

Mountain Dew x 2...not a good choice

2008-09-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

Home today, recovering from a viscous headache & stomach ache that started on my late commute home, last night. The culprit, I believe, was the Mountain Dew..not one, but two. My bright idea that it might give me the energy that was needed for another late night class. Hardly every drink soda, yet alone a Mt. Dew. Left the college at 9:15 pm & home by 10:30 with a screaming headache.
November 12th..this is the day that I will be anticipating, nervously. I've got a date with Mr. Simms man. Yes, we heard rumors that we didn't need to complete another medication simulation, since we did one last year...so not true. Under a watchful eye of an instructor, I will be given 1/2 hour to assess Mr. Simm, check all the meds, hook up the lines & set pumps, figure med calculations & conversions, mix insulin's, draw syringes, administer breathing tx, name & show all the sites for injections, perform a SQ & IM injection and answer any questions that are fired at me...did I tell you this had to be done in 1/2 hour? Needless to say, I will be spending a lot of time in the lab, brushing up my skills.
Anticipating the weekend..even if it rains. I will have to budget 4 hours for my paperwork from last week's rotation, but other than that, I'm pretty much free to watch football, enjoy my niece's bd party, have a date with Mads to the OYW program & attend church on Sunday. I may try to track down my friend, Renee, who is patiently waiting for me to teach her how to finish the Lucy Bag. She's got the bag done, but needs help with the straps.
First Microbiology exam tonight - all multiple choice.

Our spot on the wall

2008-09-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

I remember my first trip down the lecture hall of the nursing building - I couldn't help but stop and look...large picture frames of graduating nurses from BCC. Dating back in the early 70's, the walls are decorated with individual portraits of nurses, neatly framed within their graduating class. We still stop and look -it's energetic to view the display and to appreciate the challenges that they were faced, in order to get their spot on the wall. During lecture break tonight, I walked out in the hall to find a few of my sisters looking at some of the newer pictures that were added last spring. I pointed out to them that, "this is where our spot will be!" A perfect sized location on the lower half of the wall, directly under last December's graduating class - waiting patiently for us, as the weeks roll on...
I tend to play my music quite loud during my commute home at night, mostly to keep alert. Tonight, Kid Rock and I were singing "All Summer Long," in a healthy voice and I didn't hear my cell phone go off. Later learned that it was Logan, needing a ride home from the JV game. Forgot how much I love Elton John's music...nothing like singing "Bennie and the Jetts" & "Crocodile Rock" on a late night commute, half delusional from lack of sleep but still alert enough to keep a watchful eye on the corn fields, hoping that the deer stay on their side.

Football, a great way to destress!

2008-09-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

The boys lost their first game of the season today. A hard fight right to the end 33-28. Note the score board picture at the top Towanda- 11 minutes, 48 seconds left in the 4th quarter and the score is 21-21. Towanda then preceded to be ahead of the game most of the time, but Canton surprised them a bit. It was one of those games where the yellow flags seemed to be raining from the sky, and almost always against Towanda.

Logan (71) had a nice sack in the last 3 minutes of the game. It didn't take the other team long to realize that they needed to to some double-teaming on Logan.

I really needed a day like today - fresh air, sunshine and not thinking about what I should have been doing. My clinical instructor was fine with me taking the day off. I will be on the maternity unit by 6:15 tomorrow morning, (going up earlier, to get some extra paperwork done).

Madison and I spent some time shopping for "organizational" items last night. We bought a magnetic white board for the refrigerator, some white index cards for spelling & vocab words, and some new desk supplies. This past week was tough for her, as well as myself. I would like to think I am organized, but the fact of the matter is..I'm not. My sister got that gene! Madison and I are going to both work on these skills, together.

After the game, we had a nice dinner at Jay's parents. Logan has gone fishing with his two best buddies that played by his side. Madison is spending the night with Emily. It's 8:45, and I'm heading to bed. That alarm will be ringing before I know it.

Crocodile tears and the hell with the quiz tonight

2008-09-17T19:10:00.001-07:00

The day started by finding out, while driving the kids to school, that Madison had her first big social studies test today...the one that I thought was on Friday. We tried to do some crash studying, while driving through town. I felt so terrible about this. I always try to make sure she is prepared for a test and I blew it. With the full moon last evening, we got pounded with calls at the office today..nonstop..pull your hair out kinda calls - did you see the moon last evening..HUGE. I was supposed to pick Logan up at the school on my way home from work and got all the way through Wysox before remembering him...
Pulled in the drive with about 20 minutes to spare before needing to get to class. Madison looked like a sad puppy. She got a D on her social studies test and she preceded to tell me that she has a big science test, tomorrow. I went to the master bathroom and had myself a really big, bawl baby cry! After composing myself, I made the decision to skip microbiology (and lose out on a 10 point quiz). I'm confident that I can do without the damn 10 points. I took Madison to her open house at the school, met her teacher, visited the book fair and stopped and bought her a frosty before coming home to study science with her. Jay would have been helping, but he's been trying to fix Logan's car that still sits at the high school parking lot.
Grade was posted this afternoon on last night's nursing exam - passed without a problem, but not as high as I thought I would get.
I'm cashing in my free clinical miss on Saturday to attend the football game in Canton. I've decided to do it. Supposed to be one of the best games. Logan plays the entire game, defense end & offense line and it's his senior year.
I will be on the maternity floor on Sunday. I've always saved this day for an emergency, but I'm using it on Saturday. If, for some reason, I needed another clinical day off, I can take it, but I would have to make it up at the end.
All is quiet tonight. The glass of Vulpes Red wine was a perfect ending to a stressful day. I'm sure tomorrow will be a much better day:)

Nursing Exam #1 down, 4 to go

2008-09-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

I got out of work an hour early and was up to the college by 4:00. Spent 45 minutes reviewing..not sure why I do that to myself..by this point, nothing else can be stuffed in the brain! By 4:50, I had cotton balls stuffed in my ears (I know..geeky, but I think I might have a little ADD because I hone in on the buzzing sound that the overhead light makes and it distracts me). Bummed some gum, got my back corner table and was ready to role. Seventy -five questions and seventy -five minutes...not much time to fiddle around! Finally, after several years, I have learned what it means to "not read to deep into the question". I use to analyze for so long, that I overlooked the obvious and went for the deep..not good. I'm feeling pretty ok about this test tonight...which will probably jinks me for saying that! Will find out tomorrow, as grades will be posted online.

Trying to spend as much quality time with Madison as I can, (again..Logan really isn't into the quality time right now, but I do force a Mama hug on him every morning:) I once read that it isn't so much the amount of time, but the quality of time. Madison hasn't seemed like herself and she's been having a lot of stomach aches (anxiety, I believe). I'm sure this crazy schedule of mine is wearing on her. Jay will be taking her to her open house at the school tomorrow night. Breaks my heart that I can't be there for that. This will be the first one I have ever missed. But I plan on having her give me a tour next Tuesday. Since I have Tuesday's off, I thought I would surprise her at the end of the school day and let her show me her room, meet her teacher, etc. This is definitely the toughest four months, and I'm not talking about the work load, but more the strain & feelings of guilt. -Thank God for my Mother & Mother-in-law. I am very blessed to have them. Mom helped Madison study her spelling words tonight and took her to dance while Jay fixed Logan's car. Before she went to bed, we studied vocab and she had time to read me an entire story.
We decided to take the kids with us, next month, for a long weekend away. It was supposed to be for the two of us (anniversary), but we want the kids to go, as well. We haven't decided for sure, but possibly the Adirondacks or Catskill Mtns.

Company for the commute

2008-09-16T19:27:00.000-07:00

My Mom and Madison joined me on my commute to and from the college tonight! I had Microbiology lab this evening, starting at 6:00. Jay and Mads were planning on coming, but Jay got busy helping Logan with his car - so my Mom came along. They dropped me off at class and headed across the street to Cracker Barrel for dinner. Luckily, my lab only lasted one hour and I was out the door by 7:00 pm. I never thought that I would enjoy Microbiology, but so far it's been a lot of fun. I found myself quite excited that the swab sample from the local water fountain that I cultured last week, had grown quite a nasty looking bacteria. I will identify it next week under a microscope. We went over to Cold Stone Creamery for some ice cream, before heading home. It was so nice to have them along for the ride!

Spent the entire day studying for my upcoming nursing exam tomorrow night. My mind feels like mush tonight - mostly from trying to come up with ways to remember all the medications and the side affects.

Early this morning after the kids left, I set the timer on the stove and gave myself 45 minutes to get the house picked up before settling in to study...if I didn't do this, I know I would have gotten involved in "deeper" cleaning..no time for that. The timer thing is another trick from Fly Lady.

Later in the day, Mom, Anna and Daisy were out for an afternoon stroll and stopped by to give me a study break.

A weekend of football, studying, shopping & stomach viruses

2008-09-15T15:07:00.000-07:00

Started the weekend in the stands watching football. Again, Towanda beat 31-6. After an early morning rise to clean my house and get in a little studying, we were off to shop for a birthday gift and then Jay dragged Mads & I along to shop for a new door..boring. While Mads attended a roller skating bd party, I got two additional hours of studying in (back to back exams this week). Saturday night, the four of us + my little niece, Lily, went to Pizza Hut & shopping. I was impressed that the 17 year old wanted to spend his Saturday night with us. Unfortunately, we all developed a stomach ache later that evening.
Logan took his Dad's place ushering with me, at church, (I'm still upset with Jay for sneaking off to race go-carts when he knew we were supposed to usher....errr). He assures me that there is only a few more races left for the season.
Madison felt a little better by Sunday aftenoon, so we spent some time in the kitchen making peanut butter brownies and homemade applesauce. The brownies were such a hit, that I wanted to share the recipe:

Double Peanut Butter Paisley Brownies

1/2 c butter
1/4 cut peanut butter
1 c sugar
1 c brown sugar
3 eggs
1 t vanilla
2 c flour
2 t b. soda
1/4 t salt
1 pkg Reese PB chips
1/2 c. Hershey syrup

Heat oven 350. Use 9x13 cake pan.
Beat butter & pb in large bowl. Add sugars. Beat well. Add eggs, one at a time & then add vanilla. Stir dry ingredients together and add to moist ingredients. Add chips.
In greased pan, spread 1/2 batter. Spread syrup evenly over batter and top with remaining batter. Bake 40 mins.

I made the decision to not go to lecture this evening, only because we would be finishing up the content that would be on the exam, Wednesday, then head into new content. I very seldom ever miss class, but found it would be to my advantage to have the 2.5 hours that I would have spent on the road, as study time this evening.
I've have the urge to start a knitting project, even though I know I won't have much time to work at it. I find it very relaxing to knit and have even been known to knit a few rows before an exam - very calming. The Camden will be my newest project. I love it!

A big WOOHOO and a small glass of wine

2008-09-11T19:20:00.000-07:00

A woohoo! because the next three days are free, (except that I have to go to work tomorrow). After six days straight of driving to Binghamton for clinicals and late night classes, I was so happy to pull in the driveway tonight. A total of 15.5 hours of driving time and that doesn't include my 40 minute commute to work each day. That much driving time gives me a lot of time to think...think about the fact that my drivers license expired on June 27 and it is now September (a big woopsie)...also remembered that Madison has announced to us a few times in the last couple weeks that she would be putting her tooth that fell out, under her pillow for the "tooth fairy" (another woops on my part)...she must have given up on us, since she hasn't mentioned it in a few days. This could be detrimental if she were four, but she is 11 and doesn't believe in the tooth fairy - she's out for the profit. Thought about the fact that I need to get Logan's senior pictures scheduled. Let's see, what else...Madison needs to be measured for new tap, jazz and ballet shoes....Jay and I need to remember to be ushers at church this Sunday....Oh shoot, I forgot to send out the graduation card and a sympathy card that I purchased the other day! I also, just realized that my CPR certification runs out on October 7th and I need to find a recertification, quickly. Yes, these are the things that are going through my head on my long trips to and from the college.

Fly Lady would stroke out if she showed up at my house tonight.

I am happy to say that the weekend consists of spending quality time with my family. Madison and I plan to shop, bake & craft. Logan's idea of spending quality time with Mom consists of 10 minutes.

Now, I'm off to tuck a dollar bill under Madison's pillow~better late than never.

Late night at the lab with my nursing sistas..and Mr. Simms

2008-09-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

Twice a month, on Wed. night we have a lab after lecture. This is where we brainstorm case studies, practice our skills and by this late at night...sometimes get a little silly. Mr. Simms man and his buddies are high priced mechanical patients that, via a computer program, can do just about everything except get out of bed and dance to Saturday night fever. Tonight was no exception...Our patient was having complications following a surgical pin placement to the hip. Blood pressure started to fall, Mr. Simms stated he was having trouble breathing - x-rays ordered stat. Mr. Simms stood proud why Sash catheterized him, (we love you, Sasha i.e: queen of the cath). By using critical thinking, we were able to understand what exactly was going on with our patient and improve his health. Mr. Simms and his buddies really put up with a lot from us.

Snapped this picture, tonight, of our original group that started the program together. We started with 32 and now will graduate with 15. Over these past six semesters, we have stressed out together, laughed, cried, stressed some more and held each other up, at times. This program is tough for a reason - it ranks third in the state of New York for highest success rate for the board licensure exam. I am so proud of all my sistas! Each one of them will make an excellent registered nurse. As much as I dislike the long drive to the college & being away from my family, I will definitely miss these ladies after graduation.

I love Tuesdays

2008-09-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

For this last semester, I decided to schedule every Tuesday off from work as a vacation day. With classes Monday through Thursday evenings and clinical weekends twice a month, having one day off from work will keep me focused. Once the kids leave for school, I spend a little time picking up the house, then give myself a few hours of "me" time, before hitting the books to catch up on all the reading assignments. I usually pick a few hot spots in the house to organize, without spending a lot of time. Today will be the linen closet only! I came across this great website a few years ago that has really offered some great tips on decluttering and organizing. Fly Lady's site is where I learned about the "hot spots" in our house, (the biggest being the kitchen island).
As I look out to the kitchen, I see that Logan forgot his football cleats - that will work nice for practice..
I'll be picking Mads up from school today since we both have hair apts. at 2:00. This will also give us a little study time for her spelling/vocab test on Friday. A quick dinner together before I head back to Binghamton for a 6:00 lab.

Push that calcium!

2008-09-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share some interesting facts that came up in lecture over the past two weeks. UNTIL the age of 35, the body continues with the process of bone resporption and formation - meaning we steadily produce new bone as bone is broken down. The key word being UNTIL 35. At age 35, the body increases the resorption (breakdown) and bone mass starts to decrease. As we get older, the parathyroid hormone increases, which demineralizes the bone and breaks it down. We can't stop the bone loss, but we can slow the process.
The recommened dose of calcium for women/men is 1000 -1200 mg per day. On any of your labels, the calcium will be shown in % and it is always based on 1000 mg. An example would be a label on a yogurt container might state the calcium is 20% which means that there are 200 mg of calcium in that serving. Here is a site that will give you some ideas for getting your calcium. Let's keep that bone mass up and not become frail & brittle!
OK, I'm off my soapbox.

One down, five left

2008-09-07T18:24:00.000-07:00

Out the door at 5:30 this morning and after a quick coffee stop, I was headed up 17. Hit the OB floor by 7:00 am. Forgot my watch. Have to admit to the most boring clinical day ever. Spent the day in OB and not one baby born today. On my last rotation to OB, I was lucky enough to help with a natural delivery and also scrubbed for a cesarean section..all in one day. Even though the day was quite uneventful, I did get the opportunity to visit the nick unit (basically an ICU for infants). Very tiny babies with many lines & monitors. I felt quite intimidated by this setting and took a moment to thank God for my healthy kids.
Home by 4:00 to an empty house - Madison was visiting with my Mom, Logan was fishing and Jay was go-cart racing with his Dad. Jay had the kitchen nicely cleaned but he did something he is strictly forbidden to do...a load of laundry. I found one dark blue towel, some whites and a beach towel all washed together in a nice fluffy mess...
Madison and I later went to get a few groceries and I made my Aunt Maryann's yummy squash casserole for dinner. I insisted that the four of us eat together on the deck - we don't get too many nights to have dinner together.
At 9:55 , all is quiet in the Abbott home, the wine glass is empty and I'm ready to call it a day.

Here we go!

2008-09-06T15:04:00.000-07:00

Hey friends & family! I thought it would be fun to try and keep a blog of my last semester in nursing school...or at least a blog of a crazy woman. Kelly's blog has inspired me to try to keep one rolling for the next four months. While being in class four nights a week and clinicals every other weekend, my means of communication has been pretty limited to the computer and cell ph0ne.

So it's two weeks into the semester and 13 left to go. I spent most of my time traveling up and down Rt. 17 to Binghamton. I really think I deserve to get hooked up with satelite radio.

Clinicals are every other weekend, Saturday and Sunday. Today being the first clinical of the new semester. OB/Labor & Delivery. I've had all the rotaions, so this semester was "my pick". I'll do three weekends working OB, then finish up with three weekends of med/surge. I've been doing clinicals since the first semester, three years ago....and the night before the first clinical is always the same - can't find my ugly, white, nursing shoes. Jay found them for me at 11:10 pm last night - Love that man! The day that I graduate, I am treating myself to a pair of trendy, cute nursing shoes..is there such a thing as trendy nursing shoes? I'm so tired of wearing a bright yellow scrub top (BCC requirement) and white pants. When we were following our clinical leader around today, it hit me...we look like ducks. My style of scrubs will be solids..no loud prints for Karen.

Our Friday night started with a football game at Sayre. I never thought that football could be so exciting, but I love it! I actually get quite rowdy. Logan kicked some butt on both offense & defense last night. Ending score 44-13, Towanda. Hit the Chinese Restaurant for take-outs at 10:30 pm.

Madison and Jay rented a few movies tonight and it's pizza for dinner. The most that I got accomplished at home was laundry and vacuuming. Settling in to watch a good movie with my fam and then off to bed by 10:00 - early morning wake-up of 4:45 am.