I remember celebrating the start of 2007, now we're about to celebrate the coming of 2008. Time's fun when you're having flies.
Tonight (since I'm writing in the wee morning hours of Monday) we're having our Sunday School class (and some extras) over for a New Year's party. I hope it turns out to be fun. Most of them have kids, so I doubt that we'll be up too late.
I have orientation on Friday and then start classes on Monday. Break is almost over.
To update you on our dirty Santa game--I decided not to put the brown quilt in the game. Instead Emily is getting it. I made her a purple one to match her couch, but she preferred the brown one. So I gave the purple one to my Mamaw, who LOVES purple. My cousin really seemed tickled about the black, white and red one though. I was glad.
I'm enjoying quilting, but I'm about to run out of time for it.
Dave and I are headed back to Tuscaloosa this weekend to see his brother Matt and his family. They are just now making it down for Christmas. Always on the go.
Until next time.....
Monday, December 31, 2007
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Christmas is a time for sewing!
I always make some sort of crafty item each Christmas. I was so afraid that this year I wouldn't have enough time to get that done. I got some fat quarters (pre-cut quilting fabric for all you non-sewers) to make my project easier and began cutting squares for lap quilts. Granted, I've never quilted before, but that was just a minor set back. My mom can do ANYTHING!! Mom came down yesterday (she and Daddy will stay til Monday morning) and she's been helping me put my 2 quilts together. I'll quilt them at her house (her sewing machine has a roller foot that will make quilting easier), but wanted to show you all a picture of my first 2 quilts.
One will go to one of my cousins for Christmas and the other will go into the Dirty Santa game we play at Mama and Papa's every year.
So, good luck to you all--I'll be trying to win my own present too!
Monday, December 10, 2007
It's beginning to look a lot like....
NURSING 2!!!
Finally, I can say that I am done with Nursing 1! I took my final today and did pretty well on it. I missed the last math problem for a dumb mistake, but it was only worth 1 point, so I really don't care!!!
I can't believe this day is here! I remember like it was yesterday going to orientation! Now, I'm not the bottom of this nursing totem pole anymore!
I can't tell you how excited I am!!!
ONLY 4 MORE SEMESTERS TO GO!!!
You'll never believe what I did in DECEMBER!!!
Only in south Mississippi can you get up on Saturday morning--in DECEMBER--and go jet skiing! Yes, you read correctly, I went jet skiing last Saturday. I've never jet skied before so this was an adventure.
Leslie has a jet ski and I went to go hang out with her this past weekend. When I got to her apartment, she was in her truck with the jet ski already hooked up behind her. We had the whole lake to ourselves. I had the best time!!!
This is what it looks like when you hit 4 G's on a jet ski!! 
Thanks Lez.... 
Thursday, December 6, 2007
How lovely are thy branches...
I wanted to put up a picture of my Christmas tree, so everyone could see it. Dave and I travel to family each year, so our families rarely see our house. So, I'll just bring my house to them. I got my tree put up in November, before Thanksgiving break was over. Dave was not happy about that, but if I didn't do it then, I wouldn't get a chance before my final was over (next week). I wanted to be able to enjoy it longer, so up it went!
So, to catch you all up on things...
1. I didn't fail my last CV test--hooray! I made an 88. You could have knocked me over with a feather when I got that test back. I was so sure I failed it. So, now I'm going into my final very comfortable with my grade.
2. Today I finished all my check-offs. I had to go to school on my off day to do sterile gloving and sterile dressing change, but that's okay--they're done!! I have finished all my check-offs for NSG I. What a relief. I'm most excited that I didn't have to repeat any. That wouldn't be fun--they're bad enough the first time around. Today was the most comfortable I've been doing a check-off. Normally, I'm all nerves, but either I was confident enough in what I was doing or just naive one.
3. So our nursing class is getting smaller. I think to date, we have lost 11 (or is it 12, Leslie?)
students. Some of them left for family reasons or just because they didn't think they were cut out for nursing, while others left because of grades. We'll pick up some that are repeating Nursing 2, so the class won't stay small.
4. I have only one more lecture and then the final on Monday and then I'm done!!! This semester has FLOWN!! I don't know what I'm going to do over break. I won't know what to do with all my spare time. Leslie will be gone for some of it with her family, although I'm sure my phone will still ring, but things will go back almost to the way they were pre-nursing school (but only for about a month). Then Nursing 2--here I come!!
Stay tuned Blog-fans!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
My vote is for no more breaks!
Thanksgiving break really did me in. When I got back to school, I didn't want to do ANYTHING! I was so not in the homework mode.
I think I officially failed my first nursing test. I just didn't study enough. I'm going to have to go back and review that stuff on the test (It was our 2nd CV test) to make sure I know it, because it was really important stuff. I just couldn't get myself back in the school mode. I would NEVER be able to make in year-round school. All those breaks would make sure I would FAIL!!
We get the test back tomorrow, so I'll see just how I did, but I'm pretty sure I didn't pass. I'll let you know.
We also start musculoskeletal tomorrow. It should be way easier than CV.
One more week of class, a final on Monday and then I'm OUT of NURSING 1!
Tomorrow is the uniform fitting for the new Spring semester nursing one students. I'm excited to see them because it will make it a bit more real that I won't be at the bottom of the totem pole anymore! Hooray!
Stay tuned readers!
I think I officially failed my first nursing test. I just didn't study enough. I'm going to have to go back and review that stuff on the test (It was our 2nd CV test) to make sure I know it, because it was really important stuff. I just couldn't get myself back in the school mode. I would NEVER be able to make in year-round school. All those breaks would make sure I would FAIL!!
We get the test back tomorrow, so I'll see just how I did, but I'm pretty sure I didn't pass. I'll let you know.
We also start musculoskeletal tomorrow. It should be way easier than CV.
One more week of class, a final on Monday and then I'm OUT of NURSING 1!
Tomorrow is the uniform fitting for the new Spring semester nursing one students. I'm excited to see them because it will make it a bit more real that I won't be at the bottom of the totem pole anymore! Hooray!
Stay tuned readers!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Saturday, November 17, 2007
I have a dream...
Last night, I dreamed that my clinical instructor gave us our assignments and my patient had 2 different injections each day. I got so excited in my dream. Oh how my concept of excitement has changed over the last 3 months!
I'm finally out for Thanksgiving break! I woke up this morning (Saturday) at 8:00 and MADE myself go back to sleep. I didn't want to get up at 8:00 on my first morning of freedom. I wanted to sleep in! So, I got up at 11:30 instead. Boy, it was nice. I've gotten some laundry done this morning and am going to the grocery store at some point. We have our church Thanksgiving meal tomorrow, so I'm going to cook for that. I think I'm going to spend some of today throwing things away (less stuff is less stuff to keep clean). Maybe cleaning out my closet. (Maybe my eyes are bigger than my watch). This week, I'm making Jacob a new cape. Some of you know about the A-1 cape I made when Jacob was about 3 or 4. Well, now Jonah has taken it over. Jacob has requested a new one. I'll post a picture when I get it done.
Leslie has headed home, so my partner in crime has deserted me for a while. Let me tell you, I sure have LOVED having friends not associated with my church. Some of you have met Leslie, but for those of you who haven't, she's one of the coolest chics I know! VERY different from me, but hey, that keeps things exciting. Have fun in ole' Carolina--say Hi to sugar daddy for me!
Okay, I just heard the washer stop, so I have to go! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
I'm finally out for Thanksgiving break! I woke up this morning (Saturday) at 8:00 and MADE myself go back to sleep. I didn't want to get up at 8:00 on my first morning of freedom. I wanted to sleep in! So, I got up at 11:30 instead. Boy, it was nice. I've gotten some laundry done this morning and am going to the grocery store at some point. We have our church Thanksgiving meal tomorrow, so I'm going to cook for that. I think I'm going to spend some of today throwing things away (less stuff is less stuff to keep clean). Maybe cleaning out my closet. (Maybe my eyes are bigger than my watch). This week, I'm making Jacob a new cape. Some of you know about the A-1 cape I made when Jacob was about 3 or 4. Well, now Jonah has taken it over. Jacob has requested a new one. I'll post a picture when I get it done.
Leslie has headed home, so my partner in crime has deserted me for a while. Let me tell you, I sure have LOVED having friends not associated with my church. Some of you have met Leslie, but for those of you who haven't, she's one of the coolest chics I know! VERY different from me, but hey, that keeps things exciting. Have fun in ole' Carolina--say Hi to sugar daddy for me!
Okay, I just heard the washer stop, so I have to go! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
And then there were none...
I finished my hospital clinicals of nursing 1 today! What a feeling! (...keep believin'...sounds a little like Flashdance) We're off next week for Thanksgiving and then the week after that, I rotate to watch an EKG monitor for an hour and a half and then to a post-op care unit at a surgery center.
Today was a good day! I checked off on my handwashing requirement (I would hope so, by now...) and also my SQ injection. I didn't do another SQ, but she still checked me off b/c I did one a few weeks ago and wasn't going to get a chance for another one. Bummer.
I have been trying for several clinical days to get her pinned down and talk to me about anemia and reading labs so that I can determine the type of anemia a pt has. Every time, she's run out of time because of other clinical group members. Well, today, maybe b/c she got sick of me asking, maybe because she felt like she had time or maybe b/c this was my last clinical day with her, she took time. She sat down with Leslie and me and talked about EKGs and then about my anemia labs. It was a really good learning time. I just wish we had more of them.
Today was a good day! I checked off on my handwashing requirement (I would hope so, by now...) and also my SQ injection. I didn't do another SQ, but she still checked me off b/c I did one a few weeks ago and wasn't going to get a chance for another one. Bummer.
I have been trying for several clinical days to get her pinned down and talk to me about anemia and reading labs so that I can determine the type of anemia a pt has. Every time, she's run out of time because of other clinical group members. Well, today, maybe b/c she got sick of me asking, maybe because she felt like she had time or maybe b/c this was my last clinical day with her, she took time. She sat down with Leslie and me and talked about EKGs and then about my anemia labs. It was a really good learning time. I just wish we had more of them.
Monday, November 12, 2007
FREEDOM!!!!!!!!!!!
Okay, so I haven't blogged in a while--sorry. I keep saying I'll try and do better, but I'm just SOOOO tired!
So here I am to catch you up on everything! Several big things--I got checked off on giving meds!!! Hooray! I don't have to stand around waiting for my instructor to listen to me read orders out loud and then watch me pull out my meds then go to the pt's room and watch me give them. She still checks before I go to the pt's room, but I do everything else without her.
When last I wrote, we had begun the CV (cardiovascular) unit. Now we've had our first test--and got it back today. I made an 88!!! Hooray again! I was a bit concerned about this test, but overall, as long as I passed, I was okay with whatever grade I got. I also turned in my last assessment paper for Nsg 1. What a sense of freedom. I was up until 2 am last night finishing it, but finally, I'm done with my papers. Now all I have left to do is one more unit test and the final. I think I can handle that. I tend to do pretty good on the tests.
Today in class, we covered dysrhythmias. Talk about overwhelmed. That was A LOT of information in a VERY short time period. I wasn't as prepared for class as I should've been since I was up last night working on my paper. I'll catch up over Thanksgiving.
Tomorrow's clinical patient is pretty boring--nothing too exciting. I'd really like to have a pt with some IM meds or SQ meds. Now that's my idea of a good time!
People are starting to drop out of class now. We stuck pretty constant all semester and now I think grades are falling and people are leaving. I'm interested to see how many we start Nsg 2 with.
Stay tuned....
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Anemia
Right now, I am so bogged down in anemia is isn't funny! We're studying 5 types of anemia and based on the facts I have, 4 out of 5 could apply to my circumstance!! I've got to read more CV!!!!
This weekend, we had a missionary to China at church. He and his wife and their 2 beautiful girls stayed with us Sunday night. I was so disappointed that I didn't have more time with them, but I had a paper due yesterday. I didn't get my paper done on Sunday night, but I had until 3pm yesterday to turn it in. My day yesterday looked like this: I got up early, went to class, got my clinical assignment for this week, went to the computer lab and finished my paper. I turned my paper in at 2:45pm (a whole 15 minutes to spare, thank you very much), drove the hour home and immediately sat down and began researching my patient's conditions and drugs to do my daily plan for today. I finally went to bed at 11:00 last night (the more I did on my daily plan, the more I found to do and the bigger it got), but I was so wound up and so anxious (about what I don't know) that I had a hard time going to sleep. I kept thinking of things I needed to review before clinical today. In the end, I put a notepad on my bedside table and when I'd think of something I needed to do, I'd write it down (in the dark) and deal with it in the morning. At least I could quit worrying about forgetting stuff.
Got a test back yesterday--82. It is still passing, but it's the lowest grade yet. It was on fluids & electrolytes, death and dying and post-op. I thought that most of it would be on F&E, so that's where I put most of my study time--and I didn't miss a single F&E question. The problem: Most of the test was post-op. I gambled wrong. I still didn't do bad. I'm not ashamed of my 82, but I need to do better next time. The next test is our first CV test though--Yikes!
So, now I'm trying to revise my daily plan for tomorrow and get ready to be checked off on giving my meds. That's pretty exciting! I get to give another SQ tomorrow! At least there's some kind of silver lining!
Stay tuned...
This weekend, we had a missionary to China at church. He and his wife and their 2 beautiful girls stayed with us Sunday night. I was so disappointed that I didn't have more time with them, but I had a paper due yesterday. I didn't get my paper done on Sunday night, but I had until 3pm yesterday to turn it in. My day yesterday looked like this: I got up early, went to class, got my clinical assignment for this week, went to the computer lab and finished my paper. I turned my paper in at 2:45pm (a whole 15 minutes to spare, thank you very much), drove the hour home and immediately sat down and began researching my patient's conditions and drugs to do my daily plan for today. I finally went to bed at 11:00 last night (the more I did on my daily plan, the more I found to do and the bigger it got), but I was so wound up and so anxious (about what I don't know) that I had a hard time going to sleep. I kept thinking of things I needed to review before clinical today. In the end, I put a notepad on my bedside table and when I'd think of something I needed to do, I'd write it down (in the dark) and deal with it in the morning. At least I could quit worrying about forgetting stuff.
Got a test back yesterday--82. It is still passing, but it's the lowest grade yet. It was on fluids & electrolytes, death and dying and post-op. I thought that most of it would be on F&E, so that's where I put most of my study time--and I didn't miss a single F&E question. The problem: Most of the test was post-op. I gambled wrong. I still didn't do bad. I'm not ashamed of my 82, but I need to do better next time. The next test is our first CV test though--Yikes!
So, now I'm trying to revise my daily plan for tomorrow and get ready to be checked off on giving my meds. That's pretty exciting! I get to give another SQ tomorrow! At least there's some kind of silver lining!
Stay tuned...
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Lez and Miranda
Okay, so everybody, meet Leslie (blonde) and Miranda (black hair). They are the two people that I have gotten to know the best since starting nursing school. Before the Nursing convention in Tupelo last week, I knew Miranda and I knew Leslie, but Leslie and Miranda didn't know each other. Well, they hit it off pretty well and so my circle of friends is growing. How cool is that--I'm starting to get to know people and make friends outside of church. For a year and a half, the only people I've known have been the people I go to church with.
Today we went to the nursing home and gave flu shots. I love giving shots! I got to do 2 shots, but that was enough to have that skill checked off for school.
I have a test on fluids & electrolytes, death, dying and grief and post-op care tomorrow. I have to go study now!
Talk at yall again soon.
Lad
--There, are you happy Leslie (and Emily)?
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
You can't just bury them in the backyard!
I'm really trying to keep yall informed about the funny lines that come out of nursing school--I could write a book! (Risk for elevated temperature!) So my subject line this time is one of those! We covered death and dying yesterday in class. It was okay, just dull. I have not been around someone as they passed away so I was interested in the content just to know what happens. I can't very well prepare my pt's family for death when I've never experienced it (bad choice of words) myself. So this girl in class who talks a lot (not me) was asking all these questions about what you do with the body of the deceased and she commented that some people don't want their loved one to go to the funeral home. Our instructor responded with--you guessed it, "Well, you can't just bury them in the backyard!" I can think about that little comment and just laugh! Good times....
I'm beginning to have a sleep disturbance. I had to be up this morning at 4:15am to get ready to leave home in time to meet my carpool (Leslie & Sabrina) in Hattiesburg and make it to the hospital. Well, I went to bed at 10:30pm. I woke up and sat straight up in bed and realized that my alarm clock hadn't gone off. I was sure I had overslept. I jumped out of bed and went into the bathroom to get ready to get in the shower. I realized that I didn't remember turning my clock off, so I went to check the alarm. What time was it?????----12:30AM!!! So back to bed I went. And lo and behold I did the same thing again at 3:00am. What is up with me? I think I was stressing out so much about oversleeping and missing clinical, that I woke up every 2 hours.
So, we had hospital clinical again today. I think I had a good day. I was able to answer a couple of spontaneous questions from my instructor. Any time I get an answer right, I feel a little less inadequate.
Tomorrow's class is on fluids and electrolytes. There is a ton of work involved in preparation for class tomorrow.
Thursday early, I leave for nursing convention. I'm so excited. A few days without school. No paper to write over the weekend--happy days are here again!
I'm trying to do better at posting more often. Please bear with me. Sometimes (like yesterday) I just have more to do than I have hours to get it done.
Til next time, blog-fans!
Laddie
I'm beginning to have a sleep disturbance. I had to be up this morning at 4:15am to get ready to leave home in time to meet my carpool (Leslie & Sabrina) in Hattiesburg and make it to the hospital. Well, I went to bed at 10:30pm. I woke up and sat straight up in bed and realized that my alarm clock hadn't gone off. I was sure I had overslept. I jumped out of bed and went into the bathroom to get ready to get in the shower. I realized that I didn't remember turning my clock off, so I went to check the alarm. What time was it?????----12:30AM!!! So back to bed I went. And lo and behold I did the same thing again at 3:00am. What is up with me? I think I was stressing out so much about oversleeping and missing clinical, that I woke up every 2 hours.
So, we had hospital clinical again today. I think I had a good day. I was able to answer a couple of spontaneous questions from my instructor. Any time I get an answer right, I feel a little less inadequate.
Tomorrow's class is on fluids and electrolytes. There is a ton of work involved in preparation for class tomorrow.
Thursday early, I leave for nursing convention. I'm so excited. A few days without school. No paper to write over the weekend--happy days are here again!
I'm trying to do better at posting more often. Please bear with me. Sometimes (like yesterday) I just have more to do than I have hours to get it done.
Til next time, blog-fans!
Laddie
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Time's fun when you're having flies!
I can't believe October 2 was my last post! It seems like just yesterday that I was writing blog posts. Sorry Leslie--I'll do better from now on.
I have so much to catch everyone up on! So let's start at the beginning of this novel, shall we...
Midterm: Finally got my test back--95!!!! Hooray! I'm tending to be better at theory (lecture) than I am at clinical/lab. Not that I'm BAD at clinical, but I do way better at theory tests. I'm just glad midterm is over. We can finally move on. I knew that as soon as midterm ended, we'd be able to get to hospital clinicals.
Hospital clinicals: NEW INSTRUCTOR!! I like her--more info on her to follow. I have been looking forward to the hospital since we started on Day 1. We got our assignments on Monday afternoon. Evaluations are this week, so I'll see how they think I'm doing. On one hand, I really want to hear what they have to say, but on the other, I don't want to hear it. I think I'm my worst critic. I'm harder on myself than any one of them has been. I have to write a paper on this clinical experience. It will be a full blown care plan. I got my last care plan back and I brought my grade up 3 points, to a 91! I was so relieved. I fully expected my grade to drop. I'm sure they graded harder this time than the first time. I worked harder on this on than the last though.
Let me tell you, I'm tired of white uniforms!!! When I get out of school, I don't ever want to see a white uniform again! I hope all you nurses out there remember me when you have students on your unit. Be nice to them for me!
For now....
Lad
I have so much to catch everyone up on! So let's start at the beginning of this novel, shall we...
Midterm: Finally got my test back--95!!!! Hooray! I'm tending to be better at theory (lecture) than I am at clinical/lab. Not that I'm BAD at clinical, but I do way better at theory tests. I'm just glad midterm is over. We can finally move on. I knew that as soon as midterm ended, we'd be able to get to hospital clinicals.
Hospital clinicals: NEW INSTRUCTOR!! I like her--more info on her to follow. I have been looking forward to the hospital since we started on Day 1. We got our assignments on Monday afternoon. Evaluations are this week, so I'll see how they think I'm doing. On one hand, I really want to hear what they have to say, but on the other, I don't want to hear it. I think I'm my worst critic. I'm harder on myself than any one of them has been. I have to write a paper on this clinical experience. It will be a full blown care plan. I got my last care plan back and I brought my grade up 3 points, to a 91! I was so relieved. I fully expected my grade to drop. I'm sure they graded harder this time than the first time. I worked harder on this on than the last though.
Let me tell you, I'm tired of white uniforms!!! When I get out of school, I don't ever want to see a white uniform again! I hope all you nurses out there remember me when you have students on your unit. Be nice to them for me!
For now....
Lad
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
It's just like bungee jumping!
Okay, so I know that I haven't posted since Wednesday (Leslie!), but I've been swamped. After clinical Wednesday, I had to write the paper, then we met my dad and sister in Tuscaloosa and I got my car back from my dad. Then Dave and I stayed in T-town until Saturday night and drove back with our friend Eddie (missionary in Kenya). Since midterm was monday, I studied a bit over the weekend and then took my test yesterday (which I think I did well on, but we'll wait and see) and that brings us to today.
Today was SHOT day!! I have been looking forward to this day for a while! I have been very nervous about shots and figured that this would be my make or break point. We had a wonderful class time and laughed a lot (shooting water at each other when the instructors back was turned) and then finally at the end of class--after playing (learning how to draw medication from ampules and vials) with needles for 4 hours--we gave shots. I was cleaning my partners arm with the alcohol swab and she started freaking out and crying--I HADN'T EVEN PICKED UP THE SYRINGE YET!! Crazy! Anyway, I think giving shots is like bungee jumping! The first time is really scary, but after that you can't wait for the next time!!
I must say, all in all--today's class was the best yet! We needed the laughs that we had today. After midterm monday and a paper due today plus shots, we were stretched so thin, I'm surprised that we didn't snap.
I'll write more soon. Stay tuned!
Today was SHOT day!! I have been looking forward to this day for a while! I have been very nervous about shots and figured that this would be my make or break point. We had a wonderful class time and laughed a lot (shooting water at each other when the instructors back was turned) and then finally at the end of class--after playing (learning how to draw medication from ampules and vials) with needles for 4 hours--we gave shots. I was cleaning my partners arm with the alcohol swab and she started freaking out and crying--I HADN'T EVEN PICKED UP THE SYRINGE YET!! Crazy! Anyway, I think giving shots is like bungee jumping! The first time is really scary, but after that you can't wait for the next time!!
I must say, all in all--today's class was the best yet! We needed the laughs that we had today. After midterm monday and a paper due today plus shots, we were stretched so thin, I'm surprised that we didn't snap.
I'll write more soon. Stay tuned!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Nursing Dx: Anxiety r/t A REALLY BAD DAY!!!
I think I could also state my nursing Dx as Impaired Verbal Communication r/t lack of information.
Today was our second of two days at the nursing home.
My day actually went pretty well until the last 15 minutes of clinical. HIPAA prevents me from telling you exactly what happened, but in general, I was finished charting (which should be our very last thing) and was then given another task. I didn't mind doing that task in the slightest, in fact, I'm glad I was give the opportunity to provide that care for my pt. But it made me late to post conference and then a task that I had been reminding my instructor about had not gotten done and she blamed me for it.
I'm not trying to escape blame. There are things for which I am to blame, but I dont believe this is one of them. I specifically remember them telling us that if we had trouble carrying out this specific part of our assessment due to our pt's condition, let them know and they would find a pt with whom we could interact to get this assessment done. I hadn't been on the floor at the nursing home 10 minutes before I let her know. She told me to remind her later. So I did remind her--FIVE OR SIX TIMES OVER THE NEXT TWO DAYS I reminded her. So then when we finished post conference (which I was late to b/c she gave me another task) I reminded her that I hadn't gotten it done and then she snapped on me!! She told me that it was my responsibility to have found another pt that I had better find one quick! My question is: If it was my responsibility to take care of this issue, why did I have to keep reminding her about it over the past two days. Why couldn't she have just told me that I needed to find someone?
I am totally willing to admit that there are times when I don't know what to do and I also have stupid moments, but I didn't think today was one of them.
The crazy thing is--I really like this instructor--even after today's incident. Overall, she's been fabulous. I would venture to say 99% of the time she is fussing, we did something wrong. And I have no problem with her making a big deal out of some (most) things. This is nursing--it's serious stuff! These are people's lives that we are dealing with--she has every right to push as as hard as she can. I'm cool with that. We change lab/clinical instructors after midterm, which is Monday, and I'm really sad to lose this instructor.
I know that there were probably several things I could have done differently on my part to have prevented this situation, but this was my second assessment EVER and only my 2nd and 3rd time to do clincial EVER. There were so many things to think about--everything is very deliberate and takes conscious thought right now. Nothing is second nature to me. Considering all this, I thought I did okay--not great, but okay. I learned A LOT!!!!!! which was the point of the clinical experience anyway.
I came home today and got in the shower b/c I could smell my pt on me still and cried the whole time I was in the shower. Then trying to tell Dave about my day I squalled all over again. It's amazing how lack of sleep can affect your mood. I think I could've handled this situation better had I been going on more sleep.
Nursing school is definitely a rite of passage!
Today was our second of two days at the nursing home.
My day actually went pretty well until the last 15 minutes of clinical. HIPAA prevents me from telling you exactly what happened, but in general, I was finished charting (which should be our very last thing) and was then given another task. I didn't mind doing that task in the slightest, in fact, I'm glad I was give the opportunity to provide that care for my pt. But it made me late to post conference and then a task that I had been reminding my instructor about had not gotten done and she blamed me for it.
I'm not trying to escape blame. There are things for which I am to blame, but I dont believe this is one of them. I specifically remember them telling us that if we had trouble carrying out this specific part of our assessment due to our pt's condition, let them know and they would find a pt with whom we could interact to get this assessment done. I hadn't been on the floor at the nursing home 10 minutes before I let her know. She told me to remind her later. So I did remind her--FIVE OR SIX TIMES OVER THE NEXT TWO DAYS I reminded her. So then when we finished post conference (which I was late to b/c she gave me another task) I reminded her that I hadn't gotten it done and then she snapped on me!! She told me that it was my responsibility to have found another pt that I had better find one quick! My question is: If it was my responsibility to take care of this issue, why did I have to keep reminding her about it over the past two days. Why couldn't she have just told me that I needed to find someone?
I am totally willing to admit that there are times when I don't know what to do and I also have stupid moments, but I didn't think today was one of them.
The crazy thing is--I really like this instructor--even after today's incident. Overall, she's been fabulous. I would venture to say 99% of the time she is fussing, we did something wrong. And I have no problem with her making a big deal out of some (most) things. This is nursing--it's serious stuff! These are people's lives that we are dealing with--she has every right to push as as hard as she can. I'm cool with that. We change lab/clinical instructors after midterm, which is Monday, and I'm really sad to lose this instructor.
I know that there were probably several things I could have done differently on my part to have prevented this situation, but this was my second assessment EVER and only my 2nd and 3rd time to do clincial EVER. There were so many things to think about--everything is very deliberate and takes conscious thought right now. Nothing is second nature to me. Considering all this, I thought I did okay--not great, but okay. I learned A LOT!!!!!! which was the point of the clinical experience anyway.
I came home today and got in the shower b/c I could smell my pt on me still and cried the whole time I was in the shower. Then trying to tell Dave about my day I squalled all over again. It's amazing how lack of sleep can affect your mood. I think I could've handled this situation better had I been going on more sleep.
Nursing school is definitely a rite of passage!
Friday, September 21, 2007
What's a little contamination between friends?
Today we covered nursing process. I think we could've had 2 more class periods on it and still not completely understand everything it entails. I tried to read last night and just got bogged down in the 4 chapters of stuff about nursing process. Today in class I got a better understanding--I hope. At least when we did the exercise at the end of class I knew what to do. That's what matters, right?
So, after class we got 2 tests back. I made a 100 on my math test from yesterday. Hip, hip, hooray. And I made a 90 on my unit test from Monday. I was thrilled about that. I started really getting worried about it during the week. These nursing tests...it seems like I never really know how I did. Some of the questions I'm just sure I got right, I miss (and vice versa). But some of the questions I know I get wrong--I do. For example, when she was going over tests, she commented that she was disappointed in how many of us messed up the question about sterile technique and what to do if we see a classmate contaminate her gloves. She was upset that so many people answered that they would do nothing. After class, someone was commenting that they couldn't belive anyone would put that. WELL, I PUT THAT ANSWER!! I have to laugh now, somehow it just strikes me as funny.
Technically, my classmate (in the question) hadn't done anything wrong except waste a pair of sterile gloves. She hadn't tried to perform a sterile procedure in them yet, she was just cleaning a wound in sterile gloves. I wouldn't have let her start the sterile procedure. Oh well...sometimes I have stupid moments. David H. - If you see someone contaminate something--tell them (don't tell the instructor and don't do nothing)!
Now for the weekend! Hooray!!! I'm so excited to be at the weekend! I'm glad this week is over! One more week of lab and then we're back to the nursing home for a 2 day assessment. (If you're happy and you know it clap your hands!)
Thanks for reading! Feel free to comment any time!
So, after class we got 2 tests back. I made a 100 on my math test from yesterday. Hip, hip, hooray. And I made a 90 on my unit test from Monday. I was thrilled about that. I started really getting worried about it during the week. These nursing tests...it seems like I never really know how I did. Some of the questions I'm just sure I got right, I miss (and vice versa). But some of the questions I know I get wrong--I do. For example, when she was going over tests, she commented that she was disappointed in how many of us messed up the question about sterile technique and what to do if we see a classmate contaminate her gloves. She was upset that so many people answered that they would do nothing. After class, someone was commenting that they couldn't belive anyone would put that. WELL, I PUT THAT ANSWER!! I have to laugh now, somehow it just strikes me as funny.
Technically, my classmate (in the question) hadn't done anything wrong except waste a pair of sterile gloves. She hadn't tried to perform a sterile procedure in them yet, she was just cleaning a wound in sterile gloves. I wouldn't have let her start the sterile procedure. Oh well...sometimes I have stupid moments. David H. - If you see someone contaminate something--tell them (don't tell the instructor and don't do nothing)!Now for the weekend! Hooray!!! I'm so excited to be at the weekend! I'm glad this week is over! One more week of lab and then we're back to the nursing home for a 2 day assessment. (If you're happy and you know it clap your hands!)
Thanks for reading! Feel free to comment any time!
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Is it really an off day if I still have to go to school?
Emily reminded me that my off days are being compromised. The last 3 Thursdays I have had to be at school for one reason or another. Today I had to be there for a math test. It was pretty simple. They prepared us for it well. After the test I came home and CRASHED!! Oh my goodness I was so tired. I slept for hours. I felt so good after I woke up. I just wish I felt that way first thing in the morning!
Yesterday I overslept. I knew it would happen some time, just hoped I didn't oversleep too badly. I woke up at some point and tried to hit the snooze on my alarm clock, but instead I hit the off button. I woke up at some point thinking, "Hmm...it sure seems like longer than 9 minutes." Sure enough, I had slept for 30 more minutes. I didn't have time to get a shower, but I still got out of the house on time. Whew. I know that God woke me up, because Lad isn't going to wake herself up at 5:15am.
Then on the way out of town I came inches from hitting a deer. It darted out from my left and ran across the road. Everything in the front seat ended up in the floorboard and my backpack behind the seat slammed against the back of my seat. I didn't hit the deer, but it sure did scare me good. GO HUNTERS!!!
Things are going good. Tomorrow we cover the nursing process. Fun times...
Yesterday I overslept. I knew it would happen some time, just hoped I didn't oversleep too badly. I woke up at some point and tried to hit the snooze on my alarm clock, but instead I hit the off button. I woke up at some point thinking, "Hmm...it sure seems like longer than 9 minutes." Sure enough, I had slept for 30 more minutes. I didn't have time to get a shower, but I still got out of the house on time. Whew. I know that God woke me up, because Lad isn't going to wake herself up at 5:15am.
Then on the way out of town I came inches from hitting a deer. It darted out from my left and ran across the road. Everything in the front seat ended up in the floorboard and my backpack behind the seat slammed against the back of my seat. I didn't hit the deer, but it sure did scare me good. GO HUNTERS!!!
Things are going good. Tomorrow we cover the nursing process. Fun times...
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Patient at risk for falls from wheelchair!!!
I can't even type the title of this post without laughing!
Some of you (other nurses) may find this funny, and others of you may never think this is funny--that's okay. On my worst nursing school days, I'll think back to today's lab class and laugh! Leslie, now that you're reading my blog--I'll look at you and say, "Patient at risk for falls from wheelchair!" and suddenly, everything will be better.
Today in lab we covered charting! Some members of the other lab group said that it was boring and they had trouble staying awake--but not our group! Oh my goodness, I've never laughed so hard! Our instructor seemed to be in a really good mood today too, so that helped encourage our good day. She gave us some charting practice exercises to do. We each got one sentence and had to chart it. (baby steps) My sentence was, "The patient's catheter is draining clear, yellow urine." Simple enough. I didn't chart it perfectly, but hey, this was really my first stab at this. I got the high points. In the end, we decided on "Catheter patent. Clear, yellow urine." No big deal.
We went around the room telling what we charted. Some people got their's dead on, others got tweaked a little. Then we got to one of our lab members whose sentence read, "You put a vest jacket and arm restraints on your patient." Her way of charting this sentence...wait for it..."Patient at risk for falls from wheelchair." It was all I could do not to laugh out loud. She totally missed the point of charting. I think she was trying to come up with a nursing diagnosis instead. Another lab member (you know who you are) says (outloud), "Where did the wheelchair come from?" I'm still laughing about it. I think because all of us were so shocked by her off the wall answer, our instructor didn't really say much. At least when my answers are wrong, they aren't THAT wrong (so far). I was proud of myself for not laughing directly at her. I was so shocked, I'm surprised I didn't say something.
**For all those doubters out there, I do know how to keep my mouth shut!**
I think we have the coolest lab group EVER! Work hard, play hard.
Tomorrow we have a math test. So I'm driving back up to school (on my day off) to take a test. I hate that I'll probably finish the test in less time than it took me to drive to school--one way. Oh well, no pain, no gain. I've learned my equivalents and how to write the problems their way. I'm sure I'll do pretty well on this one. They've been giving us math problems on each quiz and on the tests. Those are pretty good indicators of how we'll do, I think.
Still no test back, they way it'll come back Friday. I hate not knowing what I made.
Thanks for "listening" to my story that I thought was hilarious!
Some of you (other nurses) may find this funny, and others of you may never think this is funny--that's okay. On my worst nursing school days, I'll think back to today's lab class and laugh! Leslie, now that you're reading my blog--I'll look at you and say, "Patient at risk for falls from wheelchair!" and suddenly, everything will be better.
Today in lab we covered charting! Some members of the other lab group said that it was boring and they had trouble staying awake--but not our group! Oh my goodness, I've never laughed so hard! Our instructor seemed to be in a really good mood today too, so that helped encourage our good day. She gave us some charting practice exercises to do. We each got one sentence and had to chart it. (baby steps) My sentence was, "The patient's catheter is draining clear, yellow urine." Simple enough. I didn't chart it perfectly, but hey, this was really my first stab at this. I got the high points. In the end, we decided on "Catheter patent. Clear, yellow urine." No big deal.
We went around the room telling what we charted. Some people got their's dead on, others got tweaked a little. Then we got to one of our lab members whose sentence read, "You put a vest jacket and arm restraints on your patient." Her way of charting this sentence...wait for it..."Patient at risk for falls from wheelchair." It was all I could do not to laugh out loud. She totally missed the point of charting. I think she was trying to come up with a nursing diagnosis instead. Another lab member (you know who you are) says (outloud), "Where did the wheelchair come from?" I'm still laughing about it. I think because all of us were so shocked by her off the wall answer, our instructor didn't really say much. At least when my answers are wrong, they aren't THAT wrong (so far). I was proud of myself for not laughing directly at her. I was so shocked, I'm surprised I didn't say something.
**For all those doubters out there, I do know how to keep my mouth shut!**
I think we have the coolest lab group EVER! Work hard, play hard.
Tomorrow we have a math test. So I'm driving back up to school (on my day off) to take a test. I hate that I'll probably finish the test in less time than it took me to drive to school--one way. Oh well, no pain, no gain. I've learned my equivalents and how to write the problems their way. I'm sure I'll do pretty well on this one. They've been giving us math problems on each quiz and on the tests. Those are pretty good indicators of how we'll do, I think.
Still no test back, they way it'll come back Friday. I hate not knowing what I made.
Thanks for "listening" to my story that I thought was hilarious!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
I think my brain has reached capacity!
So much information, so little space left in my brain! I have never felt this information-logged before! Wound care, charting, assessments, pain, and many more things that I have to retain! I don't mind that I have to keep up with it. It's just that there is so much, it is more difficult than normal to keep it all straight. I have been applying my knowledge of one thing to another. We're definitely building on our skills and having to incorporate them in the new things we learn, so that helps a little (that we're constantly reviewing).
I've had my first patient now. We went to the nursing home and just did a general assessment. I walked into my pt's room and went totally blank. All I could remember was that I had to take his VS. I had to leave and review my sheet, catch my breath and go back in. Everything went fine. My pt was cooperative and I made it through. Next time will be WAY easier though. I turned in my clinical paper today and won't know how I do until much later.
Good news: I made another 100 on a quiz. I love 100's. They make me feel a whole lot more encouraged! Also, my class also voted me class president (which really doesn't mean much!), so that was kinda cool.
Next week, we go back to the nursing home and do bed baths and bed making as well as an assessment. So, another patient--here I come!
Overall, things are going well--just busy!
I've had my first patient now. We went to the nursing home and just did a general assessment. I walked into my pt's room and went totally blank. All I could remember was that I had to take his VS. I had to leave and review my sheet, catch my breath and go back in. Everything went fine. My pt was cooperative and I made it through. Next time will be WAY easier though. I turned in my clinical paper today and won't know how I do until much later.
Good news: I made another 100 on a quiz. I love 100's. They make me feel a whole lot more encouraged! Also, my class also voted me class president (which really doesn't mean much!), so that was kinda cool.
Next week, we go back to the nursing home and do bed baths and bed making as well as an assessment. So, another patient--here I come!
Overall, things are going well--just busy!
Friday, September 7, 2007
It's been a hard day's night--and day!
Wow, so much has happened in so little time.
School is going fine. We did our mobility lab which included moving patients, range of motion exercises, etc. Kinda fun. I really enjoy my lab group--what a blessing!
I got my pop quiz back--made a 90. Here that translates to a B, but that's okay, its still a good grade.
Yesterday (which was supposed to be our day off) we had to come to school to take our hospital safety test. We are required to pass it before we are eligible to do clinicals at the hospital. I did well on it. Don't have the grade back yet, but I was sure about almost all my answers and looked up the 2 or 3 that I was unsure about and got most, if not all, of those correct! Hooray!
I had another test today (just got done with it). There were 2 questions that I was unsure about. I could narrow them each down to 2 possibilities, but it was going from 2 to 1 that I had trouble with. I'm pleased with the answer that I chose, but I'm not sure that they are correct. They were both pick the BEST answer--not the right answer--questions. We should get that score back on Monday. I'll be eager to see how I did.
I finally got all my clinical requirements turned in. All my shots are current and documentation correct, so I have no barriers to doing clinicals.
School is going really well overall. I'm able to keep up and hope to work on getting ahead over the weekend. Today we're discussing Nursing Laws and Ethics. It's a little bland, but has some interesting topics too.
The drama in my life right now is coming from family. Daddy was hospitalized Sunday evening having tightness in his chest. They tried to put another stint in, but couldn't get it positioned. One doctor said regulate his cardiac system with medication, diet and exercise, another said triple bypass. They have now decided on 3 bypasses and an aortic valve replacement. I was on the phone with momma or daddy last night way more than I was studying, but hey, priorities, priorities...
Pray for daddy as they're considering surgery and the best route to take care of his heart.
This weekend, my plan is to sleep!!!! I'm so exhausted. I've been waking up at 4am in a panic that I might have overslept. Then I look at the clock and realize that I still have 45 minutes to 2 hours more of sleep. After that I have very fitful sleep. I had nightmares all last night too, so I'm about dead on my feet today. I may have just thought I did okay on my test.... :)
Talk to yall soon!!!
Lad
School is going fine. We did our mobility lab which included moving patients, range of motion exercises, etc. Kinda fun. I really enjoy my lab group--what a blessing!
I got my pop quiz back--made a 90. Here that translates to a B, but that's okay, its still a good grade.
Yesterday (which was supposed to be our day off) we had to come to school to take our hospital safety test. We are required to pass it before we are eligible to do clinicals at the hospital. I did well on it. Don't have the grade back yet, but I was sure about almost all my answers and looked up the 2 or 3 that I was unsure about and got most, if not all, of those correct! Hooray!
I had another test today (just got done with it). There were 2 questions that I was unsure about. I could narrow them each down to 2 possibilities, but it was going from 2 to 1 that I had trouble with. I'm pleased with the answer that I chose, but I'm not sure that they are correct. They were both pick the BEST answer--not the right answer--questions. We should get that score back on Monday. I'll be eager to see how I did.
I finally got all my clinical requirements turned in. All my shots are current and documentation correct, so I have no barriers to doing clinicals.
School is going really well overall. I'm able to keep up and hope to work on getting ahead over the weekend. Today we're discussing Nursing Laws and Ethics. It's a little bland, but has some interesting topics too.
The drama in my life right now is coming from family. Daddy was hospitalized Sunday evening having tightness in his chest. They tried to put another stint in, but couldn't get it positioned. One doctor said regulate his cardiac system with medication, diet and exercise, another said triple bypass. They have now decided on 3 bypasses and an aortic valve replacement. I was on the phone with momma or daddy last night way more than I was studying, but hey, priorities, priorities...
Pray for daddy as they're considering surgery and the best route to take care of his heart.
This weekend, my plan is to sleep!!!! I'm so exhausted. I've been waking up at 4am in a panic that I might have overslept. Then I look at the clock and realize that I still have 45 minutes to 2 hours more of sleep. After that I have very fitful sleep. I had nightmares all last night too, so I'm about dead on my feet today. I may have just thought I did okay on my test.... :)
Talk to yall soon!!!
Lad
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
I wore an adult diaper...
I am SOOOOOOOOOO tired! I was up this morning at 4:45AM...did you get that....AM! The sun wasn't even awake yet! Oh well. I did get up and out the door in time to drive to school and be there by 7am.
Today's lab covered urinary and bowel elimination. We covered catheters, briefs, and some care plan stuff. Then we watched a video on the HIPAA laws and another on elder abuse. I'm appalled that we even had to watch a video on elder abuse--it is just unthinkable what some people will do to our elderly--what a shame!
Overall, today was a good day. I left school and got part 2 of my TB skin test. I'm happy to report that I do not have TB. I go back on Thursday and will be finished with all my clinical requirements (and can't wait until that's done!).
Tomorrow's lab is Mobility which includes feeding and moving patients and range of motion exercises. Kinda cool.
I'm liking my lab instructor more and more. She's tough, but she's thorough and she's convinced me that she really does have our best interest at heart and is out to teach us every little thing she can. After I'm out of Nursing 1, I hope I can get to know her better and can see a different side of her.
David H. - I wish you the best day tomorrow as you begin this journey I began a few weeks ago. Life as you know it will not be the same--but this is do-able. We are going to do this! When we're on the other side, our families will have to get together to celebrate!!
Going to bed now so I can get another early start tomorrow. 4:45AM comes early!
Good night, sweet dreams!
Today's lab covered urinary and bowel elimination. We covered catheters, briefs, and some care plan stuff. Then we watched a video on the HIPAA laws and another on elder abuse. I'm appalled that we even had to watch a video on elder abuse--it is just unthinkable what some people will do to our elderly--what a shame!
Overall, today was a good day. I left school and got part 2 of my TB skin test. I'm happy to report that I do not have TB. I go back on Thursday and will be finished with all my clinical requirements (and can't wait until that's done!).
Tomorrow's lab is Mobility which includes feeding and moving patients and range of motion exercises. Kinda cool.
I'm liking my lab instructor more and more. She's tough, but she's thorough and she's convinced me that she really does have our best interest at heart and is out to teach us every little thing she can. After I'm out of Nursing 1, I hope I can get to know her better and can see a different side of her.
David H. - I wish you the best day tomorrow as you begin this journey I began a few weeks ago. Life as you know it will not be the same--but this is do-able. We are going to do this! When we're on the other side, our families will have to get together to celebrate!!
Going to bed now so I can get another early start tomorrow. 4:45AM comes early!
Good night, sweet dreams!
Monday, September 3, 2007
Pop Quiz, The Count and Jane
Had a busy several days!
Friday at school we had a pop quiz (kinda expected it). I think I made a 100 (as long as good perineal hygiene is a nursing intervention for a pt with an indwelling catheter). We'll get those back tomorrow. The fifth instructor taught on Friday and I really like her. 4 out of 5 isn't bad.
I finished The Count of Monte Cristo this weekend. It ends nothing like the movie! I was kinda bummed about that. I actually like the end of the movie better than the book. It was way more happily ever after! Oh well...at least I can say I read it.
Last night after church, the "youth group" (of 18-27 yr olds) went to Hattiesburg to the movie. Most of them went to Rush Hour III, but 4 of us girls went to see Becoming Jane. It is the story of Jane Austen. I've read most of her books and loved them, and that movie was great! I loved it. You really have to listen to the dialogue to keep up though. Wholeheartedly recommend that movie.
Tomorrow is lab. I'm leaving from the house and will see how I do having to be there at 7am. I have a safety test on Thursday and then a lecture test on Friday.
I'll keep you informed.
Friday at school we had a pop quiz (kinda expected it). I think I made a 100 (as long as good perineal hygiene is a nursing intervention for a pt with an indwelling catheter). We'll get those back tomorrow. The fifth instructor taught on Friday and I really like her. 4 out of 5 isn't bad.
I finished The Count of Monte Cristo this weekend. It ends nothing like the movie! I was kinda bummed about that. I actually like the end of the movie better than the book. It was way more happily ever after! Oh well...at least I can say I read it.
Last night after church, the "youth group" (of 18-27 yr olds) went to Hattiesburg to the movie. Most of them went to Rush Hour III, but 4 of us girls went to see Becoming Jane. It is the story of Jane Austen. I've read most of her books and loved them, and that movie was great! I loved it. You really have to listen to the dialogue to keep up though. Wholeheartedly recommend that movie.
Tomorrow is lab. I'm leaving from the house and will see how I do having to be there at 7am. I have a safety test on Thursday and then a lecture test on Friday.
I'll keep you informed.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Practice day.
I met Miranda at school today and we practiced our check-off skills. We worked on BP. I'm still not very good, but I'm better. Every time I try it, I improve (so maybe a hundred or so more tries and I'll have it down).
We succeeded at making an occupied bed. Each of us finished in about 15 minutes (we have to be able to do it in less than 25 minutes). I feel much better after timing myself today and realizing that there is definitely one skill that I'll be able to do in the time alotted. By the time check-offs come around (September 11 & 12), I'll be able to do the others, but they will require way more practice than occupied bed making.
Had a ton of reading (and still have one chapter to go before bedtime) tonight. I also needed to review my math. I feel like we're going to have a pop quiz on our math pretty soon (maybe tomorrow). It is easy math, I'm just trying to remember if there are 15 minims in a mL or 15 mL in a minim. I don't even know what a minim is....
High school football season starts tomorrow night and our local high school drum major is one of our church teenagers, so we're off to the game tomorrow night. I may be taking a book with me to read. Too much to do, so little time.
Until tomorrow....
We succeeded at making an occupied bed. Each of us finished in about 15 minutes (we have to be able to do it in less than 25 minutes). I feel much better after timing myself today and realizing that there is definitely one skill that I'll be able to do in the time alotted. By the time check-offs come around (September 11 & 12), I'll be able to do the others, but they will require way more practice than occupied bed making.
Had a ton of reading (and still have one chapter to go before bedtime) tonight. I also needed to review my math. I feel like we're going to have a pop quiz on our math pretty soon (maybe tomorrow). It is easy math, I'm just trying to remember if there are 15 minims in a mL or 15 mL in a minim. I don't even know what a minim is....
High school football season starts tomorrow night and our local high school drum major is one of our church teenagers, so we're off to the game tomorrow night. I may be taking a book with me to read. Too much to do, so little time.
Until tomorrow....
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Baths and Bedmaking!
Today's lab went WAY better than yesterday! We did bed baths and occupied bed making. Today I made my lab partner go first, so I got to learn from her (I went first yesterday). The first round of people had a rough time, but the rest of us really did learn from them. Then we took a break and swapped. I didn't have nearly as hard a time as she did. I made my bed and passed inspection first try. Hooray!
While we were on break today, my lab group (of 10 girls) were discussing yesterday's lab class. They were all just as stressed out as I was yesterday--what a relief--I wasn't the only one. Several of them went home and cried (and most of us called our moms). I felt better that I hadn't cried yet and I thought I had a way harder time than they did. We talked about that fact that they have to be extremely strict now, so they can loosen up later and still have control and that they're trying to weed out anyone that can't handle it.
They say that the cardiovascular unit will be the unit to weed people out, and it isn't until after midterm. So, I guess we'll just wait and see.
I'm going back to school tomorrow (on my off day) to practice vital signs and bed making with Miranda (who isn't in my group, but we've become friends).
**David H. if you haven't already, buy a BP cuff and start practicing (on different people)!
Everythings going to be okay. I just took a 3-4 hour nap. I have to go to school tomorrow, but not as early as normal. I decided to let myself sleep. This emotional and mental strain is wearing me out right now. I'm sure I'll get used to it and be fine, it'll just take a little longer. One more class and we'll have made it through 2 FULL weeks (and a day)!
When I really get freaked out or tired of looking at nursing stuff, I read a little in a book I started. I've been reading The Count of Monte Cristo in my "spare time". It is Wonderful! If you haven't read it, or just saw the movie, pick it up sometime. It's a little long, but that just ensures that there is a lot of good story to tell.
While we were on break today, my lab group (of 10 girls) were discussing yesterday's lab class. They were all just as stressed out as I was yesterday--what a relief--I wasn't the only one. Several of them went home and cried (and most of us called our moms). I felt better that I hadn't cried yet and I thought I had a way harder time than they did. We talked about that fact that they have to be extremely strict now, so they can loosen up later and still have control and that they're trying to weed out anyone that can't handle it.
They say that the cardiovascular unit will be the unit to weed people out, and it isn't until after midterm. So, I guess we'll just wait and see.
I'm going back to school tomorrow (on my off day) to practice vital signs and bed making with Miranda (who isn't in my group, but we've become friends).
**David H. if you haven't already, buy a BP cuff and start practicing (on different people)!
Everythings going to be okay. I just took a 3-4 hour nap. I have to go to school tomorrow, but not as early as normal. I decided to let myself sleep. This emotional and mental strain is wearing me out right now. I'm sure I'll get used to it and be fine, it'll just take a little longer. One more class and we'll have made it through 2 FULL weeks (and a day)!
When I really get freaked out or tired of looking at nursing stuff, I read a little in a book I started. I've been reading The Count of Monte Cristo in my "spare time". It is Wonderful! If you haven't read it, or just saw the movie, pick it up sometime. It's a little long, but that just ensures that there is a lot of good story to tell.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Total meltdown day!
Today was absolutely draining!!
I got up at the same time this morning (but was coming from Hattiesburg) so that I could be at school at 7am. I made it about 10 minutes early, which at that time of day is fine because the traffic rush hasn't started.
Today was a scrubs day, and I thought that I had followed the guidelines pretty well. First thing when class started, the instructors really hammered us hard for not following the uniform policy. Many girls had not worn their hair up, didn't wear a watch, or had the wrong shoes (just to name a few offenses). All I had wrong was that I had on the wrong socks (ankle socks are not allowed), but they didn't make too big a deal out of socks. They also fussed pretty hard about people not having their supplies. Fortunately, I had managed to ask the right questions of one of my instructors the day before and found out that I needed to have headphones. I was one of only a few that brought them (whew!).
Today, my lab group worked on vital signs and handwashing. We watched some videos and then went to another classroom to work on our skills. I brought my blood pressure cuff that I had bought through the nursing program and began using it, but I couldn't hear anything on my lab partner. My instructor informed me that my BP cuff was too big. The manufacturer had packaged an adult large cuff (an obese cuff) in an adult regular box. No wonder it wasn't working! She told me to take it back and insist on the correct size! The instructor gave me a school cuff to use and I had to start all over on the procedure. I pumped up the cuff and before I could even turn the valve, the pressure dropped over 20mm! I asked her what I was doing wrong and she said there must be a hole in the tubing, so she took that cuff away and gave me another one. By this time, every other group has taken a couple of turns and the instructor was standing over me! How nerve-wrecking is that! I did everything WRONG!!! I even had trouble finding pulses on my lab partner! I could do all this stuff at home, but not in lab!
**Disclaimer** I know that one day I'll look back at this incident and laugh at myself for freaking over taking BP, but today--it wasn't funny!
I made it through lab, but was emotionally and mentally exhausted! I asked my instructor after class if I was missing any of the paperwork required to do clinicals and she looked it up and said I was. I really didn't anticipate that, but whatever...
As it turns out, I needed the proof that I had an MMR when I was a kid, my TB skin test was documented incorrectly and I needed to have it redone (or fight with the Jefferson County Health Dept to fix it), and she said I was overdue on my 2nd round of HBV. I was so rattled! I knew I had done everything (and done it correctly) but I had no proof. Not to mention, when I went for my 1st HBV, the Health Dept told me that I had to have my 2nd round HBV within a month of the date they listed. My instructor told me that I had to have it ON the date listed. She was freaking me out because I thought I was over due and had to have it redone. If someone took my BP at that point, it would've been through the roof!
As it turned out, I got my second round HBV (my arm is SOOOOO sore), got my first round HAV, and did decide to get my TB redone (didn't want to fight with Jeff County--Emily, some things are just worth paying for). I called Momma and she said she has my MMR certificate from when I was a kid and will get it in the mail as soon as possible. I went after school to the uniform shop and they said they've had a big problem with those BP cuffs being mis-labeled as a smaller size. They had swapped out so many that they were completely out of them, but the manufacturer was shipping some and they were to arrive tomorrow. They asked if I would come back tomorrow and assured me that they would give me the correct BP cuff.
None of these things, by themselves, were very big at all; however, together, all these things added up to a pretty rotten day. Many more days like this and I'll understand completely how people drop out. I have no intention of dropping out at all--especially over piddly stuff like this, but I do understand how people get frustrated and discouraged.
Just taking vital signs was stressful enough.......but I can do this! I'm going to do this!!! Bed baths and bed making tomorrow!
Please pray!!
I got up at the same time this morning (but was coming from Hattiesburg) so that I could be at school at 7am. I made it about 10 minutes early, which at that time of day is fine because the traffic rush hasn't started.
Today was a scrubs day, and I thought that I had followed the guidelines pretty well. First thing when class started, the instructors really hammered us hard for not following the uniform policy. Many girls had not worn their hair up, didn't wear a watch, or had the wrong shoes (just to name a few offenses). All I had wrong was that I had on the wrong socks (ankle socks are not allowed), but they didn't make too big a deal out of socks. They also fussed pretty hard about people not having their supplies. Fortunately, I had managed to ask the right questions of one of my instructors the day before and found out that I needed to have headphones. I was one of only a few that brought them (whew!).
Today, my lab group worked on vital signs and handwashing. We watched some videos and then went to another classroom to work on our skills. I brought my blood pressure cuff that I had bought through the nursing program and began using it, but I couldn't hear anything on my lab partner. My instructor informed me that my BP cuff was too big. The manufacturer had packaged an adult large cuff (an obese cuff) in an adult regular box. No wonder it wasn't working! She told me to take it back and insist on the correct size! The instructor gave me a school cuff to use and I had to start all over on the procedure. I pumped up the cuff and before I could even turn the valve, the pressure dropped over 20mm! I asked her what I was doing wrong and she said there must be a hole in the tubing, so she took that cuff away and gave me another one. By this time, every other group has taken a couple of turns and the instructor was standing over me! How nerve-wrecking is that! I did everything WRONG!!! I even had trouble finding pulses on my lab partner! I could do all this stuff at home, but not in lab!
**Disclaimer** I know that one day I'll look back at this incident and laugh at myself for freaking over taking BP, but today--it wasn't funny!
I made it through lab, but was emotionally and mentally exhausted! I asked my instructor after class if I was missing any of the paperwork required to do clinicals and she looked it up and said I was. I really didn't anticipate that, but whatever...
As it turns out, I needed the proof that I had an MMR when I was a kid, my TB skin test was documented incorrectly and I needed to have it redone (or fight with the Jefferson County Health Dept to fix it), and she said I was overdue on my 2nd round of HBV. I was so rattled! I knew I had done everything (and done it correctly) but I had no proof. Not to mention, when I went for my 1st HBV, the Health Dept told me that I had to have my 2nd round HBV within a month of the date they listed. My instructor told me that I had to have it ON the date listed. She was freaking me out because I thought I was over due and had to have it redone. If someone took my BP at that point, it would've been through the roof!
As it turned out, I got my second round HBV (my arm is SOOOOO sore), got my first round HAV, and did decide to get my TB redone (didn't want to fight with Jeff County--Emily, some things are just worth paying for). I called Momma and she said she has my MMR certificate from when I was a kid and will get it in the mail as soon as possible. I went after school to the uniform shop and they said they've had a big problem with those BP cuffs being mis-labeled as a smaller size. They had swapped out so many that they were completely out of them, but the manufacturer was shipping some and they were to arrive tomorrow. They asked if I would come back tomorrow and assured me that they would give me the correct BP cuff.
None of these things, by themselves, were very big at all; however, together, all these things added up to a pretty rotten day. Many more days like this and I'll understand completely how people drop out. I have no intention of dropping out at all--especially over piddly stuff like this, but I do understand how people get frustrated and discouraged.
Just taking vital signs was stressful enough.......but I can do this! I'm going to do this!!! Bed baths and bed making tomorrow!
Please pray!!
Monday, August 27, 2007
Back from the weekend...
This weekend flew!! Before I knew it, it was Sunday night (and I still had lots of work to do). I decided to stay with Jenna and Mel for the next couple of days, so that my drive time will be cut by almost 40 minutes one way. Tuesday and Wednesday lab begins at 7am (and 7am comes early).
Today in class we discussed Urinary and Bowel Elimination. I'm so thankful that I worked for a GI during grad school. It makes elimination not quite so gross. I've already been desensitized to it. At a GI's office, just about everything is related to poop. We're starting to cover skills that we'll be putting to practice in clinical as nursing 1 students. For example, removing Foley catheters, catheter hygiene, etc. The theory of it doesn't bother me, but I wonder about the actual practice of it. ***This is the time for all you RN's to chime in with hints, encouragement and what you know***
The professor that I didn't care for very much was our lecturer again today. Maybe we won't have her again for a while since we've had her twice in two class periods. She didn't do as bad today as before. She still stood in front of her PowerPoint some of the time, but after she came into class this morning, I moved the lecturn (while she was out of the room) so that she had more room to pace around. SEVERAL people thanked me for that. I was not the only one that she aggrevated last week.
We got our tests back at the end of class and I made an A! I actually made a 96 because I missed two questions (that I shouldn't have missed) for dumb errors. But an A is still an A!! There are people who made below a 78 which is D and F territory, but I don't think many. The girl that didn't take her test on Friday was back today. We were all afraid that we wouldn't get our tests back because of her, but they just sent her out of the room to go take her test while we got ours back and reviewed them.
After class we had a Nursing 1 welcome party, hosted by the higher nursing classes. It was nice. Supposedly each of us "first years" has a second or third semester nursing student as a mentor. They were supposed to find us during the party, but mine didn't find me. Several of us didn't have anyone "claim" us. Oh well...
Still some folks in class that make me nuts. Some of them talk too much (I never thought I'd think that of someone else) and really have nothing to say or at least nothing intelligent to say.
I'm kind of excited about tomorrow--starting Lab. Wednesday is going to be a little uncomfortable though. We're practicing bed baths--on each other. Our lab manual instructed us to wear conservative under garments. (My modesty feels violated.) Oh well, I'd have to do it if these people were my nurse in the hospital.
I've got a lot of reading to do, so--see you later!
Lad
Today in class we discussed Urinary and Bowel Elimination. I'm so thankful that I worked for a GI during grad school. It makes elimination not quite so gross. I've already been desensitized to it. At a GI's office, just about everything is related to poop. We're starting to cover skills that we'll be putting to practice in clinical as nursing 1 students. For example, removing Foley catheters, catheter hygiene, etc. The theory of it doesn't bother me, but I wonder about the actual practice of it. ***This is the time for all you RN's to chime in with hints, encouragement and what you know***
The professor that I didn't care for very much was our lecturer again today. Maybe we won't have her again for a while since we've had her twice in two class periods. She didn't do as bad today as before. She still stood in front of her PowerPoint some of the time, but after she came into class this morning, I moved the lecturn (while she was out of the room) so that she had more room to pace around. SEVERAL people thanked me for that. I was not the only one that she aggrevated last week.
We got our tests back at the end of class and I made an A! I actually made a 96 because I missed two questions (that I shouldn't have missed) for dumb errors. But an A is still an A!! There are people who made below a 78 which is D and F territory, but I don't think many. The girl that didn't take her test on Friday was back today. We were all afraid that we wouldn't get our tests back because of her, but they just sent her out of the room to go take her test while we got ours back and reviewed them.
After class we had a Nursing 1 welcome party, hosted by the higher nursing classes. It was nice. Supposedly each of us "first years" has a second or third semester nursing student as a mentor. They were supposed to find us during the party, but mine didn't find me. Several of us didn't have anyone "claim" us. Oh well...
Still some folks in class that make me nuts. Some of them talk too much (I never thought I'd think that of someone else) and really have nothing to say or at least nothing intelligent to say.
I'm kind of excited about tomorrow--starting Lab. Wednesday is going to be a little uncomfortable though. We're practicing bed baths--on each other. Our lab manual instructed us to wear conservative under garments. (My modesty feels violated.) Oh well, I'd have to do it if these people were my nurse in the hospital.
I've got a lot of reading to do, so--see you later!
Lad
Saturday, August 25, 2007
On a scale from 0-10...
Yesterday is such a blur.
I got to school earlier than ever (don't know how that happened), and got a parking place RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE NURSING BUILDING!!! And Murphy's law says, that's the one day that I have to go to the library (which is much closer to the bad parking places) to take my test. Oh well...I parked in front of the nursing building anyway, just for the principle of the thing.
The test was easier than I thought it would be. 48 questions, 2 math problems.... I had a question about one of the multiple choice because it was a very subjective question. It was a scenario and the question basically asked, "What is this patient thinking?" Ultimately, who knows? I thought the correct answer would've been--Ask the patient. But that wasn't an option. I chose the answer that I thought was best and moved on. Other than that, the test was pretty easy (but I had studied a lot for it too). There's a lady in my class who was in Nursing 1 last semester and is having to re-take it for some reason. She assured us that the second test would be harder than this. One person didn't show up on test day...wonder if she'll be our first to drop out?
**I have learned that although the program outcomes say that 51% will graduate, this nursing program consistently has a better graduation rate than that. The last class to graduate had 29 in it. That's 2/3 of the starting class! I also learned that they have many years (recent years) of 100% NCLEX pass rates. That was very reassuring to me!**
After the test, we had 2 hours of lecture on pain and pain management. It's amazing what all I knew that I didn't know I knew. A lot of the pain information, my mother-in-law told me sometime in the past. It all came flooding back during the lecture, so the lecture reinforced what I knew and taught me some to build on that (thanks, Nancy!).
Lab starts next week, but a few of us plan to stay after class on Monday and practice our bed-making while the labs are still pretty empty. We're afraid after we officially start lab, they will be full of people. We've had the lecture on bed-making and bath giving and the instructions that they want us to follow are in the book, so we're going to go take a stab at it. Maybe that way, when we get to lab on Tuesday, we'll be able to perfect our skills instead of trying them for the first time.
I met our church ladies in Hattiesburg last night for dinner. We were ALL able to go out. I think the birthday girl had a wonderful time!!
My sleep schedule is officially started. I was trying to fall asleep last night at 9:00. I didn't go to bed until about 11:30, but was WIDE AWAKE at 8:00 this morning. I know some of you are rolling your eyes at me because you haven't slept until 8:00 a day in your lives, but for me--a sleep-aholic--8:00 is early, especially on a Saturday when I have the chance to sleep and sleep and sleep. It's okay though. I don't mind. Dave is gone to a church meeting, so I have all morning to study and just have some quiet time.
So far, I've made the bed (yes, mom, I do know how to make the bed), played on Webkinz and written this post. Not very productive, but I don't move so quickly in the mornings!
Talk to you next week--
Lad
I got to school earlier than ever (don't know how that happened), and got a parking place RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE NURSING BUILDING!!! And Murphy's law says, that's the one day that I have to go to the library (which is much closer to the bad parking places) to take my test. Oh well...I parked in front of the nursing building anyway, just for the principle of the thing.
The test was easier than I thought it would be. 48 questions, 2 math problems.... I had a question about one of the multiple choice because it was a very subjective question. It was a scenario and the question basically asked, "What is this patient thinking?" Ultimately, who knows? I thought the correct answer would've been--Ask the patient. But that wasn't an option. I chose the answer that I thought was best and moved on. Other than that, the test was pretty easy (but I had studied a lot for it too). There's a lady in my class who was in Nursing 1 last semester and is having to re-take it for some reason. She assured us that the second test would be harder than this. One person didn't show up on test day...wonder if she'll be our first to drop out?
**I have learned that although the program outcomes say that 51% will graduate, this nursing program consistently has a better graduation rate than that. The last class to graduate had 29 in it. That's 2/3 of the starting class! I also learned that they have many years (recent years) of 100% NCLEX pass rates. That was very reassuring to me!**
After the test, we had 2 hours of lecture on pain and pain management. It's amazing what all I knew that I didn't know I knew. A lot of the pain information, my mother-in-law told me sometime in the past. It all came flooding back during the lecture, so the lecture reinforced what I knew and taught me some to build on that (thanks, Nancy!).
Lab starts next week, but a few of us plan to stay after class on Monday and practice our bed-making while the labs are still pretty empty. We're afraid after we officially start lab, they will be full of people. We've had the lecture on bed-making and bath giving and the instructions that they want us to follow are in the book, so we're going to go take a stab at it. Maybe that way, when we get to lab on Tuesday, we'll be able to perfect our skills instead of trying them for the first time.
I met our church ladies in Hattiesburg last night for dinner. We were ALL able to go out. I think the birthday girl had a wonderful time!!
My sleep schedule is officially started. I was trying to fall asleep last night at 9:00. I didn't go to bed until about 11:30, but was WIDE AWAKE at 8:00 this morning. I know some of you are rolling your eyes at me because you haven't slept until 8:00 a day in your lives, but for me--a sleep-aholic--8:00 is early, especially on a Saturday when I have the chance to sleep and sleep and sleep. It's okay though. I don't mind. Dave is gone to a church meeting, so I have all morning to study and just have some quiet time.
So far, I've made the bed (yes, mom, I do know how to make the bed), played on Webkinz and written this post. Not very productive, but I don't move so quickly in the mornings!
Talk to you next week--
Lad
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Time's up
I feel so much better. I was asleep before 10:00 last night and didn't get up until 9:30. I needed that sleep. Hopefully I won't have any trouble sleeping tonight and will feel equally as rested tomorrow. Several people in class are already complaining about lack of sleep. Not sure I understand where they've been spending their time. Some have kids and jobs, so that's understandable, but others are like me and have few distractions.
Tomorrow is my big test. It covers A LOT of information! I've been studying a little, but now it's time to really hit it hard.
I spent a little bit of time working on my blog today. I think it looks better now--hope you do too.
I have a super busy day tomorrow. School first thing in the morning. My test is at 8:30 and then they pick up with lecture at 9:30 (no rest for the weary). After that, I'll hang out at school studying for a while, then go to Hattiesburg. Our church Ladies' Auxiliary is going to take one of our church members to supper for her birthday. This church member has been struggling with her brother's illness for the past 6-9 months. He is 61 and has Down's Syndrome. She is his constant care-giver, but lately he's been very sick. In and out of nursing homes and ICU. We wanted to give her a little break and celebrate her birthday with her (she has no other family). Just some time to think of something other than what is going wrong in her situation right now. They could both use prayer right now. I know God answers!
Also, if you think about it, pray for me and this big test. I want to start out right and get a good grade while the information is easier. I know after this test, I'll wish for something easy.
**sigh** Back to the books!
Lad
Tomorrow is my big test. It covers A LOT of information! I've been studying a little, but now it's time to really hit it hard.
I spent a little bit of time working on my blog today. I think it looks better now--hope you do too.
I have a super busy day tomorrow. School first thing in the morning. My test is at 8:30 and then they pick up with lecture at 9:30 (no rest for the weary). After that, I'll hang out at school studying for a while, then go to Hattiesburg. Our church Ladies' Auxiliary is going to take one of our church members to supper for her birthday. This church member has been struggling with her brother's illness for the past 6-9 months. He is 61 and has Down's Syndrome. She is his constant care-giver, but lately he's been very sick. In and out of nursing homes and ICU. We wanted to give her a little break and celebrate her birthday with her (she has no other family). Just some time to think of something other than what is going wrong in her situation right now. They could both use prayer right now. I know God answers!
Also, if you think about it, pray for me and this big test. I want to start out right and get a good grade while the information is easier. I know after this test, I'll wish for something easy.
**sigh** Back to the books!
Lad
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
I'm sooooo sleepy...
For the past two days, I have come in from school ready to go to bed. I haven't done it--haven't even taken a nap, but I'm so tired.
I'm not used to being up at 5:45 and out of the house by 6:30. Normally, I haven't even stirred by 6:30. I'm so spoiled to sleeping in. Gotta get used to this new schedule. Starting next week, I've got to be at school at 7am two days per week.
Got to school even earlier today and got a bad parking space again. I did find a new commuter parking lot though, so I think I'll be able to park there from now on and get a good spot. People have started settling in to their spots in the room and taking the same desks everyday. Looks like I'll be able to get my seat for the rest of the semester. **confessions of an OCD sufferer**
Class was okay today. We were learning about hygiene and rest/sleep. Hygiene included baths/bed baths and bed making. She demonstrated for us, but we won't get to actually practice these skill until next week in lab.
4th professor (of 5) today. I'm sure she's a very nice lady, but I didn't like her very much. She used PowerPoint, but stood in front of it the whole time, so our side of the room couldn't see it. When we asked her to move, she gave us a lecture on note taking skills and the fact that we don't have to write down every word she says. **rolled eyes** Frustrating. She never did understand what we were trying to tell her. It wasn't just that though, she was not as informative a teacher as the other three have been. Oh well...4 out of 5 isn't bad.
We got that pop quiz back today--I made a 100!!! Yea!! Starting out right!
We were also assigned to our lab/clinical groups and professors. I'm pleased with my group and very pleased with the professors. I got my favorite of the 5 for lab and then another good one for clinical. My clinical professor is known for being the strictest of the 5, but that's okay. I don't mind. I think that I'll definitely learn my stuff at clinical--she'll see to that! I was pleased that I didn't get today's lecture professor.
Tonight is fellowship supper at church, so I need to go finish cooking.
I have tomorrow off, but it will be filled with studying for Friday's unit test! Pray for me!
Thanks,
Lad
I'm not used to being up at 5:45 and out of the house by 6:30. Normally, I haven't even stirred by 6:30. I'm so spoiled to sleeping in. Gotta get used to this new schedule. Starting next week, I've got to be at school at 7am two days per week.
Got to school even earlier today and got a bad parking space again. I did find a new commuter parking lot though, so I think I'll be able to park there from now on and get a good spot. People have started settling in to their spots in the room and taking the same desks everyday. Looks like I'll be able to get my seat for the rest of the semester. **confessions of an OCD sufferer**
Class was okay today. We were learning about hygiene and rest/sleep. Hygiene included baths/bed baths and bed making. She demonstrated for us, but we won't get to actually practice these skill until next week in lab.
4th professor (of 5) today. I'm sure she's a very nice lady, but I didn't like her very much. She used PowerPoint, but stood in front of it the whole time, so our side of the room couldn't see it. When we asked her to move, she gave us a lecture on note taking skills and the fact that we don't have to write down every word she says. **rolled eyes** Frustrating. She never did understand what we were trying to tell her. It wasn't just that though, she was not as informative a teacher as the other three have been. Oh well...4 out of 5 isn't bad.
We got that pop quiz back today--I made a 100!!! Yea!! Starting out right!
We were also assigned to our lab/clinical groups and professors. I'm pleased with my group and very pleased with the professors. I got my favorite of the 5 for lab and then another good one for clinical. My clinical professor is known for being the strictest of the 5, but that's okay. I don't mind. I think that I'll definitely learn my stuff at clinical--she'll see to that! I was pleased that I didn't get today's lecture professor.
Tonight is fellowship supper at church, so I need to go finish cooking.
I have tomorrow off, but it will be filled with studying for Friday's unit test! Pray for me!
Thanks,
Lad
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Day 3 News
I'm proud of myself--I did manage to get out of the house (and to school) 5 minutes earlier than yesterday. I was thrilled to get a better parking place too! Still not the best, but way better than the past two times. I got the SAME seat in class today, and the same girl sat in front of me. The routine-freak in me cheered!
Today's lecture was Infection Control--big issue everywhere (especially the NCLEX, from what they say). We had a good time in class. New professor again--and boy, did she talk fast! If I hadn't done my reading and watched the videos yesterday after class, I would have been SOOO lost.
Kinda good thing today--we had our first pop quiz. About 25 questions covering the previous 2 lectures and the reading from the night before. I'm about 95% sure I made a 100. Yea!!! The more grades we have, the better. Today's quiz was easy, but they assured us that from here on out, they'll be way more challenging.
I came home today and immediately started reading. I have one of my two chapters read, and when I get up from here, I'll finish the other. Our first unit test is Friday, so I need to study tonight as well. I have determined to be in bed by about 9:30 (and 9:30 can't get here soon enough--I'm exhausted!).
Another cool little tidbit...we're going to be starting to take BP's next week in lab, so I decided to go ahead and practice on Dave (since I have NO experience, maybe this way I won't make a total fool of myself). I followed the directions that they gave us in class (based on our check-off list) and I actually heard what I was supposed to hear! I expected to have to try several times before I heard it right, but I did it! It was awkward and holding the stethoscope and manometer and everything was a handful, but I was pleased with the success that I had! That makes me not quite so scared to try again. Dave has agreed to let me take his BP each day to practice...I just hope the next tries go as well as the first.
Lots to do...
Lad
Today's lecture was Infection Control--big issue everywhere (especially the NCLEX, from what they say). We had a good time in class. New professor again--and boy, did she talk fast! If I hadn't done my reading and watched the videos yesterday after class, I would have been SOOO lost.
Kinda good thing today--we had our first pop quiz. About 25 questions covering the previous 2 lectures and the reading from the night before. I'm about 95% sure I made a 100. Yea!!! The more grades we have, the better. Today's quiz was easy, but they assured us that from here on out, they'll be way more challenging.
I came home today and immediately started reading. I have one of my two chapters read, and when I get up from here, I'll finish the other. Our first unit test is Friday, so I need to study tonight as well. I have determined to be in bed by about 9:30 (and 9:30 can't get here soon enough--I'm exhausted!).
Another cool little tidbit...we're going to be starting to take BP's next week in lab, so I decided to go ahead and practice on Dave (since I have NO experience, maybe this way I won't make a total fool of myself). I followed the directions that they gave us in class (based on our check-off list) and I actually heard what I was supposed to hear! I expected to have to try several times before I heard it right, but I did it! It was awkward and holding the stethoscope and manometer and everything was a handful, but I was pleased with the success that I had! That makes me not quite so scared to try again. Dave has agreed to let me take his BP each day to practice...I just hope the next tries go as well as the first.Lots to do...
Lad
Monday, August 20, 2007
And it's only Day 2....
I have a new respect for all you readers who have completed nursing school already. Today was only the second day of class, but I already know that this program will be harder than anything I've ever done before. Don't get me wrong, I'm loving it. It is extremely interesting! I had a different professor today and she was also really good.
Today we covered vital signs--lots of information there.
I woke up this morning at 5:45--yuck! I was out of the house by 6:30--yuck! I made it to school by 7:30 and STILL didn't get a close parking space--yuck!! However, I did get a closer space than I did Friday, so it was better. The silver lining though, I was early enough that I got the seat I wanted in the classroom. There were 6 other nursing students already in our classroom when I got there, so I wasn't the only dork who got there early to get a good seat! My goal tomorrow is to get to school about 5 minutes earlier than today. I can always read/study while I'm waiting for class to start.
I'm tired...actually, I'm flat exhausted! I came in today and laid down on the couch and slept for about 20 minutes. I needed a short nap to help me get through all the reading I had to do tonight. Lots of pages (David H.--be prepared!!), heavy books!
I'm going to bed now, since tomorrow will be 5 minutes earlier than today!
Love you all--please pray!
Lad
Today we covered vital signs--lots of information there.
I woke up this morning at 5:45--yuck! I was out of the house by 6:30--yuck! I made it to school by 7:30 and STILL didn't get a close parking space--yuck!! However, I did get a closer space than I did Friday, so it was better. The silver lining though, I was early enough that I got the seat I wanted in the classroom. There were 6 other nursing students already in our classroom when I got there, so I wasn't the only dork who got there early to get a good seat! My goal tomorrow is to get to school about 5 minutes earlier than today. I can always read/study while I'm waiting for class to start.
I'm tired...actually, I'm flat exhausted! I came in today and laid down on the couch and slept for about 20 minutes. I needed a short nap to help me get through all the reading I had to do tonight. Lots of pages (David H.--be prepared!!), heavy books!
I'm going to bed now, since tomorrow will be 5 minutes earlier than today!
Love you all--please pray!
Lad
Friday, August 17, 2007
What a day!!!
My first day of nursing school! Wow....
I'm glad I stayed in Hattiesburg last night. I got up early this morning to get an early start. I started my day out right--with Chick-Fil-A! I got to school at 8:00 (for my 8:30 class) and drove around for 20 minutes trying to find a place to park! It was absolute chaos! It wasn't that I minded walking, I just couldn't find a place to put my car! I finally parked illegally at a restaurant across the street and down a ways from the school. I prayed that my car wouldn't get towed. I made it to class with 5 minutes to spare. The only problem was that my "lateness" made me forfeit all the good seats. I was in the next to last row from the back--bummer. I'm such a front row person. I don't think that I want to be front row right now though...maybe second row. I am determined to be earlier next time so that I can pick my seat.
Class today was on the history and philosophy of nursing, the roles of the nurse and then we talked a little bit about illness and the stages of illness. Not the most "edge-of-your-seat" information, but the professor did a very good job of presenting it. Got lots of notes. I hate to see how many pages of notes when the information gets very complex...whew!
A friend of mine told me that at least at first, my goal should be to blend in to the crowd. Not to be too quiet, but not to be the star either. I really had trouble with this because I'm a born Type-A over-achiever. But after today--my friend was right (Thanks Deborah!). I realize that I know virtually nothing about this subject matter and by watching the other students (who also have almost no knowledge of the subject matter), I know what it looks like to talk about things you know nothing about. It just makes you look dumb? stupid? pick a word...
Started my reading assignment for Monday--Vital signs. I can definitely tell why people get overwhelmed right from the start. I haven't even gotten past body temperature yet and there's already a lot to learn, e.g. when to use which temperature method.
Today we "toured" (if you count a 5 minute walk-through as a tour) a surgical and endoscopy clinic where some of us will do a clinical rotation. Nothing really special...just a surgery center. While we were there I overheard some of the girls saying that after our first unit test they would decide whether this program was for them or not. That test is this coming friday, so I guess we'll see if we have our first drop-outs. They are going to have to kick me out before I leave. I will not quit this just because it gets hard. I may cry and suffer, but I will not quit--#1 - my pride wouldn't allow it, and #2 - I've paid out too much money on uniforms and equipment to just drop out within the first couple of weeks. I pray I don't end up eating those words! :)
I'm trying to get on a new sleep schedule, so I'm off to bed now--WAY before my normal bedtime.
Thanks for reading,
Lad
I'm glad I stayed in Hattiesburg last night. I got up early this morning to get an early start. I started my day out right--with Chick-Fil-A! I got to school at 8:00 (for my 8:30 class) and drove around for 20 minutes trying to find a place to park! It was absolute chaos! It wasn't that I minded walking, I just couldn't find a place to put my car! I finally parked illegally at a restaurant across the street and down a ways from the school. I prayed that my car wouldn't get towed. I made it to class with 5 minutes to spare. The only problem was that my "lateness" made me forfeit all the good seats. I was in the next to last row from the back--bummer. I'm such a front row person. I don't think that I want to be front row right now though...maybe second row. I am determined to be earlier next time so that I can pick my seat.
Class today was on the history and philosophy of nursing, the roles of the nurse and then we talked a little bit about illness and the stages of illness. Not the most "edge-of-your-seat" information, but the professor did a very good job of presenting it. Got lots of notes. I hate to see how many pages of notes when the information gets very complex...whew!
A friend of mine told me that at least at first, my goal should be to blend in to the crowd. Not to be too quiet, but not to be the star either. I really had trouble with this because I'm a born Type-A over-achiever. But after today--my friend was right (Thanks Deborah!). I realize that I know virtually nothing about this subject matter and by watching the other students (who also have almost no knowledge of the subject matter), I know what it looks like to talk about things you know nothing about. It just makes you look dumb? stupid? pick a word...
Started my reading assignment for Monday--Vital signs. I can definitely tell why people get overwhelmed right from the start. I haven't even gotten past body temperature yet and there's already a lot to learn, e.g. when to use which temperature method.
Today we "toured" (if you count a 5 minute walk-through as a tour) a surgical and endoscopy clinic where some of us will do a clinical rotation. Nothing really special...just a surgery center. While we were there I overheard some of the girls saying that after our first unit test they would decide whether this program was for them or not. That test is this coming friday, so I guess we'll see if we have our first drop-outs. They are going to have to kick me out before I leave. I will not quit this just because it gets hard. I may cry and suffer, but I will not quit--#1 - my pride wouldn't allow it, and #2 - I've paid out too much money on uniforms and equipment to just drop out within the first couple of weeks. I pray I don't end up eating those words! :)
I'm trying to get on a new sleep schedule, so I'm off to bed now--WAY before my normal bedtime.
Thanks for reading,
Lad
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Tomorrow is the big day!!!
Nursing classes start tomorrow!!!! I'm super excited!
I went for orientation yesterday and learned a whole lot about what to expect. They gave us our first reading assignment and we will begin in full swing on Friday! I was a bit concerned that Friday would be a syllabus day and more orientation, but they did as I hoped and gave us ample information on Wednesday, so that class would begin on Friday.
I had to buy books on Wednesday as well. I had to buy 5 books and 2 additional resources. One of those 2 is a Nurse's Med Deck full of drug cards, the other is an RN Notes pocket guide.
I bought the biggest book that I've ever had to buy though. It is huge!!! Not a little overwhelming!
Tonight, I'm going to Hattiesburg to stay with some of our college church members who have an apt up there. That way I won't have to drive quite so far on my first day of school. They say traffic is horrible on campus on the first day. I'm still not completely sure where to park anyway, so I guess getting there early will be in my best interest!
I've met several other girls in the class--one older than me and 2 younger than me. I hope that they'll be some who persevere and make it. I'm always very wary of studying with people who aren't committed. We'll just have to see. At least I know several people now. That does make it a little bit easier.
Pray for me! I'm really excited, but kinda scared too!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
The last week!
Only 4 more days!!
I have orientation on Wednesday, and then I start Nursing classes on Friday! Hooray!! I'm really excited!
I went shopping for school supplies the other day--I love school supplies! (what a nerd...I know)
I'll get books and my scrubs and uniforms on Wednesday!
I'm very excited at the work I've gotten done around the house. I really took to heart that I needed to get rid of stuff, so I did some MAJOR "spring/summer"cleaning! I got rid of a lot of stuff. Dave and I sold some on Ebay (new experience for us) and some just got pitched! But overall, there's significantly less stuff in my house and what stuff I have is WAY better organized. I can actually walk in my sewing room and our bedroom is cleaner than it's ever been. I'm working very hard to keep everything spic and span this week. I want to go into the semester with a clear mind. I don't want to be sitting in class thinking of everything that needs to be done at my house. I feel so free in my clean house!! It's way less stressful too.
Nothing big planned this week. Gonna enjoy my last few days before school.
I have orientation on Wednesday, and then I start Nursing classes on Friday! Hooray!! I'm really excited!
I went shopping for school supplies the other day--I love school supplies! (what a nerd...I know)
I'll get books and my scrubs and uniforms on Wednesday!
I'm very excited at the work I've gotten done around the house. I really took to heart that I needed to get rid of stuff, so I did some MAJOR "spring/summer"cleaning! I got rid of a lot of stuff. Dave and I sold some on Ebay (new experience for us) and some just got pitched! But overall, there's significantly less stuff in my house and what stuff I have is WAY better organized. I can actually walk in my sewing room and our bedroom is cleaner than it's ever been. I'm working very hard to keep everything spic and span this week. I want to go into the semester with a clear mind. I don't want to be sitting in class thinking of everything that needs to be done at my house. I feel so free in my clean house!! It's way less stressful too.
Nothing big planned this week. Gonna enjoy my last few days before school.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
The best vacation relaxation!
I have had a wonderful chance to catch up on some reading while we've been here in Birmingham.
I borrowed the final book of a trilogy from my mother-in-law (thanks Nancy!) and devoured it. It was "The Brethren" by Beverly Lewis. It is the third book in the Annie's People series. I really enjoy Beverly Lewis' books--I feel like I can actually see the beautiful countryside in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. I don't agree with the Old Order Amish beliefs, but I love the simplicity of life there. We could all stand a bit more simplicity!
I picked up a new book at Lifeway today too. Organizing for life by Sandra Felton. I've been able to skim part of it, but other parts have really motivated me to go home tomorrow and work on my house. Sandra founded a group called Messies Anonymous. I'm not as bad as most of the people that she describes, but I can sure use the motivation to do better. I need to really work on organizing and simplifying right now. Going into nursing school, the last thing I need to be worried about is house cleaning. If I can scale things down, maybe I can reduce a potential stress this fall.
As I mentioned--we're going home tomorrow! I've enjoyed our vacation, but it is time to go home.
Friday, I have CPR certification. So I'm jumping right back into life...that's okay. I'm ready.
Hope to keep posting regularly. I'll try to keep you informed about my house cleaning/organizing project.
Enjoy the rest of your summer!
Lad
I borrowed the final book of a trilogy from my mother-in-law (thanks Nancy!) and devoured it. It was "The Brethren" by Beverly Lewis. It is the third book in the Annie's People series. I really enjoy Beverly Lewis' books--I feel like I can actually see the beautiful countryside in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. I don't agree with the Old Order Amish beliefs, but I love the simplicity of life there. We could all stand a bit more simplicity!
I picked up a new book at Lifeway today too. Organizing for life by Sandra Felton. I've been able to skim part of it, but other parts have really motivated me to go home tomorrow and work on my house. Sandra founded a group called Messies Anonymous. I'm not as bad as most of the people that she describes, but I can sure use the motivation to do better. I need to really work on organizing and simplifying right now. Going into nursing school, the last thing I need to be worried about is house cleaning. If I can scale things down, maybe I can reduce a potential stress this fall.
As I mentioned--we're going home tomorrow! I've enjoyed our vacation, but it is time to go home.
Friday, I have CPR certification. So I'm jumping right back into life...that's okay. I'm ready.
Hope to keep posting regularly. I'll try to keep you informed about my house cleaning/organizing project.
Enjoy the rest of your summer!
Lad
Sunday, July 29, 2007
I'm caught up!!
I can't belive it! I'm finally caught up! This post is going to be about the past 2 days!
Dave and I decided several months ago that we desparately needed a vacation! After the hectic summer schedule that we keep, we needed some down time. I'm starting nursing school in the Fall and he's going to be teaching a couple of classes at GCBI, our local ABA seminary, in Hattiesburg. So a vacation will be out of the question for the next while.
Dave also wanted to use this time as kind of a working vacation so he can get his ducks in a row for his classes, so we decided to spend a little time just chilling and then the other time working.
We left home last Thursday and went to Tuscaloosa to spend the night. We stayed there until Saturday around lunch and then hit the road to Atlanta. One of the things that Dave has wanted to do was go to church at North Point Community Church where Andy Stanley pastors. So we came over to Atlanta to hear him--and we weren't disappointed. Today we went to the 11:00 service, and although Andy was at a different campus and we saw him through live feed--it was great! Very different from our worship service back home, but it has been a long time since we just sat in pews and soaked up God's word and participated congregationally in the worship. It was wonderful. If you're ever around Atlanta over a weekend--check it out! They are actually in Alpharetta, but easy to find! The church website is www.northpoint.org.
Tomorrow, we're going to Six Flags to ride huge roller coasters, then back to Birmingham, where we'll stay until probably Thursday. Dave will be able to work at the library at Samford where he is very familiary with their extensive religion section! His goal is to come home with his syllabi done! I'm going to hang out at the hotel and Lifeway (across the street from the hotel) and enjoy my leisure time. From what I hear, this will be all I get for a while!
I'm enjoying this vacation!
I'll keep you posted!!!
Dave and I decided several months ago that we desparately needed a vacation! After the hectic summer schedule that we keep, we needed some down time. I'm starting nursing school in the Fall and he's going to be teaching a couple of classes at GCBI, our local ABA seminary, in Hattiesburg. So a vacation will be out of the question for the next while.
Dave also wanted to use this time as kind of a working vacation so he can get his ducks in a row for his classes, so we decided to spend a little time just chilling and then the other time working.
We left home last Thursday and went to Tuscaloosa to spend the night. We stayed there until Saturday around lunch and then hit the road to Atlanta. One of the things that Dave has wanted to do was go to church at North Point Community Church where Andy Stanley pastors. So we came over to Atlanta to hear him--and we weren't disappointed. Today we went to the 11:00 service, and although Andy was at a different campus and we saw him through live feed--it was great! Very different from our worship service back home, but it has been a long time since we just sat in pews and soaked up God's word and participated congregationally in the worship. It was wonderful. If you're ever around Atlanta over a weekend--check it out! They are actually in Alpharetta, but easy to find! The church website is www.northpoint.org.
Tomorrow, we're going to Six Flags to ride huge roller coasters, then back to Birmingham, where we'll stay until probably Thursday. Dave will be able to work at the library at Samford where he is very familiary with their extensive religion section! His goal is to come home with his syllabi done! I'm going to hang out at the hotel and Lifeway (across the street from the hotel) and enjoy my leisure time. From what I hear, this will be all I get for a while!
I'm enjoying this vacation!
I'll keep you posted!!!
Camps!
We take our church kids to camp every summer...the teens to Bogg Springs in Arkansas and the younger kids to Camp Glenwood in Folsom, Louisiana. We had a great time with our kids on both trips.
Teen Camp: The church chartered a bus and we "rode in style" with Roger Taylor and the kids from Victory BC in Madison, MS. It was really cool getting to know those kids so well. By the end of the week, I couldn't tell where my kids stopped and the Victory kids started! New friends are great! We went to a new week of camp this year. We normally go to TLC, but this year we went to The Bogg. It was good, but our kids definitely want to go back to TLC. The Thursday class time was really good (especially on the girls' side). We discussed our Missio Dei "on mission with God" and how each of us are on mission with God. We were able to discuss some practical things that we could do when we got home to accomplish the mission that God has called us to. I was very proud of our kids--they are the coolest!
Camp Glenwood: I really enjoyed this week of kids camp. Dave and I led music, which taught us a lot, but we had fun! It was a great week and we saw 20 kids get saved (one of them came with us). Praise the Lord! Made some new friends and also saw some acquaintances become friends that I treasure!!
Camp season was great, but I was glad to get home. I've got pictures, but I'll have to post them later.
Teen Camp: The church chartered a bus and we "rode in style" with Roger Taylor and the kids from Victory BC in Madison, MS. It was really cool getting to know those kids so well. By the end of the week, I couldn't tell where my kids stopped and the Victory kids started! New friends are great! We went to a new week of camp this year. We normally go to TLC, but this year we went to The Bogg. It was good, but our kids definitely want to go back to TLC. The Thursday class time was really good (especially on the girls' side). We discussed our Missio Dei "on mission with God" and how each of us are on mission with God. We were able to discuss some practical things that we could do when we got home to accomplish the mission that God has called us to. I was very proud of our kids--they are the coolest!
Camp Glenwood: I really enjoyed this week of kids camp. Dave and I led music, which taught us a lot, but we had fun! It was a great week and we saw 20 kids get saved (one of them came with us). Praise the Lord! Made some new friends and also saw some acquaintances become friends that I treasure!!
Camp season was great, but I was glad to get home. I've got pictures, but I'll have to post them later.
WHAT AN AWESOME GOD WE SERVE!!!
The day after we got back from Tulsa and the ABA meeting, Dave mentioned that someone from Jones County had called (he saw it on the caller ID).
My heart jumped into my throat! Could it be?
I called the number on the caller ID and got the nursing department. They had called to OFFER ME A SLOT IN THE FALL CLASS!!! I GOT IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
God knew exactly what He was doing! 4 days late and He's still on time!
I accepted the position immediately! I am going to nursing school!
I had my first (of 2) orientation sessions already and got all the medical information stuff that I have to complete before attending. I also had my uniform fitting the other day! I can't wait to start! My first day of class is August 17th, but I have another orientation session on the 15th.
If you think about it--pray for me this next couple of years. I think I'm in for more than I can expect. I have a great support system though and lots of nurses/nurse practitioners to help when I've hit a brick wall!
Praising God for His generosity!
Lad
My heart jumped into my throat! Could it be?
I called the number on the caller ID and got the nursing department. They had called to OFFER ME A SLOT IN THE FALL CLASS!!! I GOT IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
God knew exactly what He was doing! 4 days late and He's still on time!
I accepted the position immediately! I am going to nursing school!
I had my first (of 2) orientation sessions already and got all the medical information stuff that I have to complete before attending. I also had my uniform fitting the other day! I can't wait to start! My first day of class is August 17th, but I have another orientation session on the 15th.
If you think about it--pray for me this next couple of years. I think I'm in for more than I can expect. I have a great support system though and lots of nurses/nurse practitioners to help when I've hit a brick wall!
Praising God for His generosity!
Lad
June: Beginning my Summer Sprint!
Now that we're at Ebenezer, my summer is just about planned for me. I don't mind so much--most of these things are really fun!
Along with June came several things:
VBS - We had a great time at VBS and were able to plant seeds in many kids. I had a great time working on decorations and working with our great director. Definitely made me excited about next year's VBS.
ABA meeting - The dreaded day had finally come! I had to give a meaninful presentation to up to 600 women. As it turned out, there were between 300-400 women (and a few men) there. I spoke on Ministry Burnout, which I believe is a topic that affects all ministry families at some point. Then Ms. Thel gave a wonderful and tear-jerking presentation on Leaving a Godly Legacy! I love hearing her speak!
**If you haven't had a chance to check out HomeBuilders Ministries go to their website at www.homebuildersministry.org. They do couples retreats, marriage seminars, etc. and are wonderful! They are so real, but so passionate about God's design for marriage and family!
Then at the end of June, I had a wonderful treat!!! Emily, Mom and Em's kids came to Mississippi to see me--for a week and a half! We had a ball! I was so thrilled that they came and I got to spend time with them. We went to the beach and played (big change for them, since they live in the mountains!) and Jacob got stung by a jellyfish! But I don't think any of us would have traded our trip for anything.
WHAT A GREAT JUNE!!! (and I even left out one part...next post!)
Along with June came several things:
VBS - We had a great time at VBS and were able to plant seeds in many kids. I had a great time working on decorations and working with our great director. Definitely made me excited about next year's VBS.
ABA meeting - The dreaded day had finally come! I had to give a meaninful presentation to up to 600 women. As it turned out, there were between 300-400 women (and a few men) there. I spoke on Ministry Burnout, which I believe is a topic that affects all ministry families at some point. Then Ms. Thel gave a wonderful and tear-jerking presentation on Leaving a Godly Legacy! I love hearing her speak!
**If you haven't had a chance to check out HomeBuilders Ministries go to their website at www.homebuildersministry.org. They do couples retreats, marriage seminars, etc. and are wonderful! They are so real, but so passionate about God's design for marriage and family!
Then at the end of June, I had a wonderful treat!!! Emily, Mom and Em's kids came to Mississippi to see me--for a week and a half! We had a ball! I was so thrilled that they came and I got to spend time with them. We went to the beach and played (big change for them, since they live in the mountains!) and Jacob got stung by a jellyfish! But I don't think any of us would have traded our trip for anything.
WHAT A GREAT JUNE!!! (and I even left out one part...next post!)
April/May
April 1st was the deadline for my nursing school application! I was turned down for maternity benefits with health insurance and after seeing how quickly costs could add up through Emily/Thomas, I had NO peace about having children without health insurance. I prayed about going back into accounting and really didn't feel good about it. Aside from tax season, I didn't want to get back into that kind of work. I enjoyed my job at the State of Alabama, but those jobs are few and far between. So Dave and I prayed about nursing school for me. Anyone who has known me since high school, you know this isn't THAT big a stretch for me. I really wanted to do health care administration rather than tax, but after talking to an ex-hospital administrator, he convinced me that all my eggs in the health care basket was a bad idea. I don't regret that decision--I now know what I DON'T want to do. I don't want to prepare tax returns for the rest of my life. I really enjoyed the doctor's offices that I worked in and felt like God was opening a door to pursue that field. Spring semester I took a few classes that was lacking and then submitted my applications to Jones County Junior College.
After a long wait...I got a letter in the mail. I didn't get in. I was on a wait list. How discouraging! I truly felt that God had opened the door and so I had to trust Him and find a way to be content in that. I called the head of the nursing department and she advised me to take a few more classes that I would need for nursing school and then apply in the spring. She said I probably was not high enough on the wait list to get a vacated spot. I decided to accept that and began plans to go to our nearby community college to get those classes. God's plans are often different from our own!!
I definitely had plenty to keep me occupied. I was still keeping Allie 5 days a week and gearing up for the National Women's Auxiliary program at the ABA meeting in Tulsa. I really regretted getting myself into that position. But I believed that God gave me a message for the ladies. I also had the best partner-speaker a girl could have! Thelnita Fincher from Rowland Road BC agreed to speak on Leaving a Godly Legacy and EF Hutton doesn't hold a candle to her--when she speaks--we had all better listen!
Stay tuned for updates on June and following!
After a long wait...I got a letter in the mail. I didn't get in. I was on a wait list. How discouraging! I truly felt that God had opened the door and so I had to trust Him and find a way to be content in that. I called the head of the nursing department and she advised me to take a few more classes that I would need for nursing school and then apply in the spring. She said I probably was not high enough on the wait list to get a vacated spot. I decided to accept that and began plans to go to our nearby community college to get those classes. God's plans are often different from our own!!
I definitely had plenty to keep me occupied. I was still keeping Allie 5 days a week and gearing up for the National Women's Auxiliary program at the ABA meeting in Tulsa. I really regretted getting myself into that position. But I believed that God gave me a message for the ladies. I also had the best partner-speaker a girl could have! Thelnita Fincher from Rowland Road BC agreed to speak on Leaving a Godly Legacy and EF Hutton doesn't hold a candle to her--when she speaks--we had all better listen!
Stay tuned for updates on June and following!
March 2007
Isn't this horrible, that I'm having to go all the way back to March to catch yall up...
In March, Dave took a wonderful trip to Kenya, Africa. He and his dad went to visit Brother Eddie Williams (who is one of the coolest missionaries I know!!) where he is 
a missionary in Turkana. They had an absolutely phenomenal time!
Over the course of 2 weeks, they were able to show the Jesus film, part of The Passion of the Christ, and even The Ten Commandments (yep, Charleton Heston). They did some local evangelism (they sat under a tree in the shade and gave a Gospel presentation to anyone who would listen--everyone!). They saw over 350 professions of faith--Praise God!!!
At one village, they showed the Jesus film and then Brother Eddie gave an invitation and asked anyone who wished to accept Christ to stand. THE WHOLE VILLAGE STOOD UP!!! Eddie actually tried to pursuade some of them to sit down, but they insisted that they wanted Jesus! How cool is that!!
Dave came home ready to go back! I was relieved. I was afraid he'd be miserable with the heat, and he was hot, but loved getting to present the Good News of Jesus' death, burial and resurrection. People readily accepted Christ over there. When asked why they accepted so quickly, they told Dave and his dad, "You've come so far to tell us--wh
y would you lie?" That really convicted me about how lazy and selfish we are as Americans. If only we were as hungry for Jesus as those who aren't so "privileged".
Totally out of touch!!!
Okay, so I've been gone for a really, really long time! I'm not promising to do much better, but I'm gonna try.
I have a lot to catch everyone up on, so I'm gonna do it in several different posts to keep all the topics separate.
Happy Reading,
Lad
I have a lot to catch everyone up on, so I'm gonna do it in several different posts to keep all the topics separate.
Happy Reading,
Lad
Monday, February 26, 2007
"Roshto reunion"
Saturday we had a great time visiting with Dave's family. We were supposed to meet in Jackson, with some coming from Tuscaloosa and some coming from Monroe, LA, but after a minor glich, we ended up in Vicksburg. Emailing doesn't even compare to getting to see them in person! David and I got to compare notes about nursing school applications and our current A&P classes. I realize just how much I miss having David and Aleecia (and their kids) close by. The next "Roshto reunion" is already in the works--YEA!!!
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Webkinz
Emily's kids have gotten me hooked on Webkinz. Webkinz are stuffed animal toys (a little bigger than a Beanie baby) that come with a code to access a virtual pet world. You feed your "pet", play with your pet, dress your pet, etc. In order to earn money to take care of your pet, you can do educational quizzes (for lots of money) or arcade type games (for less money). Then you basically build a house for your pet and take care of it. This is my kind of pet!!
The kids have had a blast with them--and so have I. I've been logging in to their accounts and helping them earn money and have become addicted to webkinz.
These are really affordable pets too! With each purchase of a pet (about $10), you get a year's free subscription to the website.
For more information, check out www.webkinz.com.
***I really like this picture of Jonah watching the bull dozers and dump trucks out the window.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Fat baby = Healthy baby
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Emily sent new pictures of Thomas today. Just looking at him you can tell he's a far cry from the baby that I remember being in the hospital. So many of you ask about him regularly (and I appreciate it), so I wanted you to get to see how far he has come. I can't wait to get to see the kids again soon.
Check out these pictures of him--he's changed so much, and he's doing great!! Isn't God good!!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Nursing School News
I went to Ellisville (close to Laurel, MS) today to turn in my nursing application. I talked to Financial Aid while I was there and they are still talking like I'm eligible for scholarships (I'm not going to stop praying about that though). Then I went to the nursing office and turned in my application. The secretary of the department told me that my application is number 66 so far. She said that at the last minute, they often have 150-200 more applications come in. The program accepts 50-60 students each semester. Those odds are surprising. She told me that they aim to notify all applicants, one way or another, by the end of the semester. I'm very glad that I am in school. It will make this semester fly by. It will also keep my mind from dwelling on what I can do nothing about.
I am confident that God has brought me this far though. He will either see me through or open another door. I can't do anything but pray now.
My Discovery kids lesson at church Wednesday night was about God providing manna for the Hebrew children while they were in the wilderness. The point that I brought out was that we can trust God for everything. God took such good care of the Israelites while they were wandering. His Shekinah glory cloud provided direction, warmth, and light and then He gave them manna and quail. Why would he not provide for me too? I was really convicted today that if I teach our church kids about trusting God for everything, then I had better live my life trusting Him for everything too!
Maybe yall could pray with me about this. I'd sure appreciate it.
I am confident that God has brought me this far though. He will either see me through or open another door. I can't do anything but pray now.
My Discovery kids lesson at church Wednesday night was about God providing manna for the Hebrew children while they were in the wilderness. The point that I brought out was that we can trust God for everything. God took such good care of the Israelites while they were wandering. His Shekinah glory cloud provided direction, warmth, and light and then He gave them manna and quail. Why would he not provide for me too? I was really convicted today that if I teach our church kids about trusting God for everything, then I had better live my life trusting Him for everything too!
Maybe yall could pray with me about this. I'd sure appreciate it.
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