Spring is Here!!!

Hiiilllooo!!

Jerry Humphrey's is a popular man in Alabama. He has inspected any & every elevator in the state, from Mobile to Birmingham, Scottsboro to Jacksonville, Gadsden, etc. I've actually made it a point to check out who the elevator is inspected by b/c there is nooo way he's checking EVERY elevator!! Funny that I first noticed his name when I was a sophomore in college at USA, so needless to say, I've been noticing the elevator inspectors.

So, the Lenten season has begun. I was getting off work on Ash Wed, so I decided to make the early mass, which just so happens to be the school mass of the day!! I've been attending the same Catholic church in Bham for 4yrs b/c I'm too nervous to try another one by myself. The past few times I've been (which, indeed, have been too far apart), I showed up at 530...mass didn't start until 6. The next time, I bee bopped in there at 630, wondering why I was the only one who was walking in. It was only like 632, couldn't have been thattttt late. They had just finished the Homily. I couldn't leave b/c I had already taken off my jacket! Ugh! So, back to Ash Wed, I had just gotten off a 12hr shift, tiredddd & looking like it. I sit in my normal seat...3 rows closest to the back on the far left. Well, then kids of all ages start piling in. I was the tallest person for rows!!! Hahah.

My pops, sister, & I adventured to Tunica, MS a few wknds ago. Mine & Ry's 1st casino rendezvous. Believe me when I say, I've never seen so many Hover-rounds (sp?) & wheelchairs. Not to mention, the array of pajama pants people were sporting! Hahah! We had a BLAST. I didn't lose any $$, so I broke even. Who knew Roulette was so fun? I tried to lighten the mood since everyone is sooo serious around the table. When it was quiet, I said, "So this isn't the same as Russian Roulette, is it?!?!" Hahah! Didn't get quite the laugh I was seeking, but that's okay! Everyone asked Ry & I if we were twins or assumed I was older which is annoying b/c she's 2yrs older than me!!

Buffet city. I haven't eaten at a buffet in years, but oh my, did I eat at the casino's! We made some friends naturally w/ my dad telling everyone he was there w/ his daughters & Ry & I being the socialites we are. One Yemen man played Roulette w/ us for a while. Ry kept saying that "Lemon" guy. Wait, did I just say we made friends? I meant we didn't! Hahah! Jk! He didn't hear her. After that trip, come on Vegas!!

St. Patrick's Day: ah, what a glorious day. I set up shop at an Irish Pub around 0900...yes, in the morning. Don't judge; there was free breakfast! This place is open 24hrs for this special occasion. Kegs & Eggs, they called it. Hahah! You wouldn't believe the ppl who showed up at 0600 when they opened! Impressive. It's like Mardi Gras where ppl take off work to enjoy/celebrate allll day! Making friends was easy, & there was more shades of green than the Amazon Rainforest.

Seinfeld is my #1 all time, favorite shows. I LOVE IT! Can't get enough, even though I've seen every episode a number of times! It kills me how Jerry always has like 65 boxes of cereal in his apt. Have you ever noticed that? Its' funny to me.

Well, I wouldn't be Megan if I didn't put my foot in my mouth at least weekly. Good thing I've already completed that task for this wk. A man walks in to see his what I believe is grandchild. "Hey Grandpa!!" ....I wondered if I could retract the statement as soon as it rolled off my tongue. "Ohhh, no, I'm not Gpa...know I look old, but I'm dad." I just smiled, as I wanted to melt into the ground.

Think that's it! Love!

Who wants a Sandwich?

Hey! The "No soup for you!" lunch ladies are gone from my work!!! Outta there. No mas! See yaaaa! Thank heavens; I can now order my turkey, pepperjack on wheat w/out the possibility of getting a knife thrown at me! Haha. The sandwich maker moved to day shift...I truly believe it's bc I gave her such the stink eye when I went in there. My coworkers wouldn't even go w/ me in fear that that mean, old lady would not like them too! Anddddd the cashier, she was just too old, bless her. Usually I buy a Powerade & Chex Mix w/ or w/out the sandwich. I promise you, L, the cashier, would spell out everything you bought! It took her entirely toooo long to cash you out. She used a pencil & if there was a backspace on that thing, she was wearing it out!! So needless, to say, my life is a lot better now w/out those 2 mean ladies!

I don't recall if I've mentioned the divorce of my Dad & (ex)stepmom. Well, it was an ordeal, just like everything else. She's moved to ArkansaS (I like to pronounce the silent S). Yes, you read correctly, Arkansas. Sucks b/c my little sister is there w/ her. We do get to see her, just not as much as I, or the rest of the family would prefer. Don't really think it's fair to strip a child away from all of her family, but who I mean who am I to question? So, point of story. Mac was here a few wks ago. She, Ry, & I were all watching tv in my dad's bed, sharing some sister bonding. I lost my phone charger (& by lost, I mean misplaced for 1 second, & had already began sweating that Id never see it again...dramatic, I know) Of course, I blame Mac; she's young, why not? She says "Uh, no, Meg, I didn't have it. You losed it." Before Ry or I can correct her, my 8y/o sister says, "Oh no! I've lived in Arkansas too long!!" Hahahha!!!! Speaks volume!

February 7th was a year since Ben Trussell's passing. We all got together to celebrate his life. Seems so unreal that he's been gone a yr. His (older) brother wrote the most amazing song about him, a tear jerker for sure. The chorus "I play the same chords you played" Just got chills even typing that. His dad played a song of his. It's amazing to see how many ppl come out or showed up in memory of him. Damnit Ben.

After experiencing the death of a close friend & just being a nurse, it's so scary to know how fast things can happen & turn sour. Some ppl are ready for death. Well, I guess I shouldn't say ready, rather, not afraid for it. Not me. I'm so scared of death.

Freedom of Speech...the 1st Amendment, correct? Yes. Also, in this country, we are allowed to practice any religion, whether it be Christianity or praying to wild turkey. I've already mentioned in the past what it's like being a Catholic in the "Bible Belt" so to speak. It's not Alabama in general b/c when I lived in Mobile, everyone was Catholic. However, out of all the nurses I work w/, I believe only 3, including myself, have practiced or are practicing Catholics. Ever since the 3rd grade, I've been getting grief about my Christian denomination b/c mind you, Catholicism is a part of Christianity. As a matter of fact, we started Christianity. How can so many ppl seem to forget that? You learn it in school! Someone's Facebook (another topic later) on how they were glad they didn't have to pray to a Priest, blah blah. Now I shouldn't take offense to that, I know. I mean, if you're reading my blog, I know I've probably offended you along the way. I just don't see how ppl can "act so Christian" & then criticize another CHRISTIAN denomination. No, that's wrong. Plus don't ask me why I do what I do in my church when we started the Christian Churches. I'm going to ask you why YOU do what YOU do!

For the record, we don't worship Mary. Does she not deserve some credit though? We don't believe Saints are God. They have all been phenomenal, great, living the Word of God people. Why not ask them for guidance as well? Someone asked me if I could just pray?! Like w/out having a structured prayer, I guess, like the Act of Contrition & Hail Mary. Well don't all ppl say the Lord's Prayer? Ignorance. Of course we can pray!!! I talk to God alllll day. Actually after having that conversation, I was saying the Hail Mary, & wondered why anyone would ever question why we pray to her.

Clarke is getting spayed today!! She went into HEAT!! Oh my. It's the most disturbing, disgusting, ridiculous thing. She's just a little BABY!!! She was going sooo crazy that she would wake me up w/ her meow/crazy mating call maybe? I don't even know if I can look at her the same. My mom took her to the vet; I had to get rid of her for the wknd!!!! Does that make me a bad mom that I didn't bid her farewell before surgery? Crap. Yes.

Happy Saturday! The weather is beautiful! Go outside!!

Twenty Eleven

Hello!

We had another "Blizzard of '93" so to speak in Bamaville. I braved snow, ice, & sleet for the 1st time driving, experienced my 1st potential lockdown at work for inclement weather...oh, & best of all, missed the National Championship! Hahah. I had switched days Mon & Tues so that I could come home to watch the game w/ everyone. Luckily for the sake of being off, I didn't have to stay at the hospital hours on end, not getting paid. I only was there for about 4hrs w/out pay, but some of my poooooor coworkers had to stay Sun-Tues!!! God Bless those dedicated workers!! I missed the game b/c I don't have cable & was pretty much stranded at my apt. Hahah. We won though, so good! hahah

It's always funny that Wal-Mart runs out of bread & milk. Is that the 1st thing you crave when it's supposed to come a blizzard? Buy me some chips, chocolate, & beer!

Ready for summer like no other! This dreary weather has been no fun, except for getting use out of the 900 ankle boots that I've purchased.

You know how I usually only read nonfiction books, but I watched A Time to Kill the other day. It really spiked my interest. I enjoy all of John Grisham's movies, so maybe I'll branch out to try the books!

This whole Arizona deal is crazy! I read that "they" were trying to blame the college b/c the crazy man had been suspended until he sought a psych eval. My understanding of colleges is that they really don't give a damn what you do as long as you $pay$. During my school years, I never even became close enough for any authoritative figure or teacher to know anything about my life; much less if I needed to see a psychiatrist. No, it's not the university's fault. They could not have aided in this not happening. Stop pointing blame. We know who did it. Last time I checked, I make my own decisions. So does everyone else.

On a lighter note, what a wonderful birthday!!! I went to Mobile to see some sorority sisters & old coworkers. Probably the best birthday in a longggg time! My theme was "24 & still hardcore"! Hahah, yes, I'm a nerd. Met a guy who looked like Ellen. I managed to not spend a dime, so, I guess the mission was accomplished!

Now that I'm 24, I feel like I need to be a lot more adult like. Like, I should increase my 401K, start cooking more, blah blah. Hahah. I have noticed my body is slowing BUT surely changing. Things are settling, & by things, I mean body parts. Hahah! I need this to notttttt happen. I never really knew that weight does shift w/out doing anything!

Does it freak anyone else out when ppl you don't know try to add you on Facebook? No, I do not need to be friends w/ you just b/c we have mutual friends. That's a little creepy. Also, if you have a girl/boyfriend, you don't need to be adding ppl you dont know, esp of the opposite sex! Only asking for trouble, kiddos.

All for now, talk to you soon!

'Tis the Season!

Merrrrrrryyyy Christmas to all! It's the best time of the year! Holiday cheer, family time, & good food! Not to mention, my birthday is in 8 days! Whoop Whoop!!!


I have so many funny stories to share, so here goes:


1st things 1st, WAR EAGLE!!!! SEC Champs & on our way to Glendale! Couldn't ask for anything better! (Who cares about the Cam Scam?!?! No one is perfect; families sale each other out a lot. This hoopla does not take away his talent, & nothing can!! It's eating those Bama fans up! Just be happy your state is being represented for the 2nd yr in a row!)


I had the chance to attend both AU vs SC games this season. Fun times! Atlanta is a fun place. You know I didn't leave that town w/out making 17 new friends. Sunday, we had parked our car in valet. Well, when it came closing time for the parking lot, RSD & I had to go get the car, but we weren't ready to leave this underground restaurant. It was was sooo cold!!! I was trying to hurry back in the heat. I hurried allllllright; busted my tail down a flight of stairs! Hahah! In my embarrassed stupor, I sat by a man named Frank to tell him the whole story. He didn't care, but I pretended he did. This one guy asked me why I was a Bears fan b/c I had a southern accent! I said, "Excuse me, Grandma Peg is from Chicago, & I am not that southern!" They don't know who Gma Peg, & there's no denying a Southern accent!!! That's me being ridiculous. P.S. Yay Bears!! Come on playoffs!


I also went to the LSU/Bama game (& I did not cheer for LSU, even though I wanted to!!) We stayed in the Big Easy, but drove to Baton Rouge for the game. That city knows how to do it, & do it big!! Almost frightening the way those guys know how to throw down! We had hit up Bourbon St. that Fri & returned on Sat p.m. RSD must have made an impression the 1st p.m b/c at the Funky Pirate, the bartender said, "Mr. D, back again??" Hahha! She continued, "Pretty impressive when a bartender on Bourbon St. can remember your name!!" I love my life! We stayed at a MOTEL (Yes, motel!) that one of their friends fixed up after Katrina. I was a little nervous to say the least when the tenants were walking around w/ Busch Gold 40's! We tried & tried to get a taxi, but no one ever came through. Finally, we hop in one, & we ask why it's so hard to get a taxi over there. Mind you, the New Orleans taxi driver, says, "b/c you're in the ghetto!!!" My life wasn't in jeopardy, nah. Hahah!


Halloween at work, a coworker & I dressed up as the Super Mario brothers. Well, the only costumes we could find were 'Boys Huskies'. She's about 4'11'' & myself being 5'7''. She was Luigi & me, Mario! Hahah it was funny b/c her pants were dragging the ground & mine looked like pedal pushers! Halloween was on a Sat, along w/ the Magic City Classic in Bham. Not a good idea to go get take out, but she & I did. We called our order in for all our coworkers & ran to get it. Formaggios was PACKED out w/ costumes & ppl from the game. She & I were the cleanest as in hygiene & our costume choice. Well, of course, they didn't have my order. He asked what I wanted. I said, "Spaghetti & meatballs." This drunkard passed me & said, "Imagine that: Mario ordering spaghetti & meatballs!" Hahah punk! To top it off, the girl I was w/ ran into an ex that she hadn't seen in about 6yrs!!! We had on mustaches for crying out loud! What a night!


Every year at work, we're required to go to simulation labs. There's a group of ppl (MDs, respiratory therapists, nurses, pharmacists, etc), & you're given a scenario to handle. It's as real as it can get w/ manequins that have pulses, can turn blue, & moving anatomical parts. If it's a code scenario, you open the crash cart as if it were real life. Of course we have 9days left in the year of 2010, & I have procrastinated. I finally finished my last one Thursday. Usually I go w/ nurses from my unit so I'm more comfortable. You can only imagine the anxiety I harbor during those activities! haha! Well, I rounded up another nurse who has been a nurse a little over a yr, like me. I thought that's okay b/c there will be more nurses. WRONG! There were like 6 doctors, & 3 nurses! We were divided into 2 rooms! I was sooo nervous! One of the MD's acted like an EMT worker for the scenario & during 'saving the patient', he fakes a seizure! I was like, "Really??" Hahha! You would know it was the 1st time for them to do that scenario too. Hahah. I survived, however, it wasn't easy! Hahah

Happy Holidays!

Consider it Done.

I'm over it. Wow, that was a lot easier said, typed, thought, ect. than expected. I've had my little revelation. And while you probably could have hospitalized me 2mos ago, I feel amazing and have for a week now. C wasn't "the one", my "true love", my soul mate, perfect, meant to be, blah blah. He passed the time...what I like to call a passer-byer. That's what he'll remain if he keeps treating girls the way he does. Judging by his track record, yep, a passer-byer,. C got me over T & that's the only reason he was in my life. My oldest sister kept saying, "Megan, I think you're struggling with this b/c you've never been rejected." (Screwed over, definitely, but never dropped like a bad habit.) I said, "No, no, you're wrong. I really am upset b/c...well blah blah blah." She was right. Plus, I happen to always catch the eyes of BOYS who have more of an ALLOWANCE than my pay check. What winners!!!!

WORK- amazing! I'm afraid I've grown to attached to too many of my patients!! I can't help it...working 7days in a row, you learn to love them!!! Being a nurse has definitely made me completely inappropriate. As if I wasn't inappropriate before, but my career has worsened me!!! Like I said, I laugh at the wrong time...ALWAYS!!

I would like to tell you a story about a fax machine. I began faxing at age 13 when I was an office aide in Junior High, hah. So almost 11yrs later, I'm sending a fax via copy machine, & I ask for help from a colleague. She walks over & asks me if I hit the 'facsimile' button. I asked, "What did you call it??" She says, "Facsimilie." I said, "No way! That's how you pronounce it?? I've always thought it was facsimile (Fash-a-meal)!!" Bahahah!! That doesn't even make sense!!! I haven't told my dad b/c he will embarrassed I'm his daughter, so surprise, Dad, when you read this!!! hahahh!!

You know, reading my Bob O'Reilly book, I've decided I'm the Bob O'Reilly of my little world. At work, nothing is open the hours I'm there except the Go Store, which has candy, chips, hot dogs, (No, I don't work at a baseball field), & sandwiches. The ladies who make them could possibly be the MEANEST women ALIVE!!!!!! It's like the Seinfeld episode "No soup for you!!". You can't order too fast or too slow. They will bite your head off either way. They're like black widows, evil. (Side story: At a young age, I watched a documentary w/ my mom on black widows being in shoes. To this day, I check my shoes for spiders!!!! What? Why? So they can bite my hand? Isn't logical, I know.) Anyway, I happen to ask for my sandwich toasted, which REALLY ticks them off, b/c they say w/ the worst attitude possible, "WE CAN'T TOAST. WE HAVE A GRILL!" It's a panini presser basically, get over yourself. So, my fellow colleagues don't go to the Go Store w/ me b/c they don't want to be associated w/ me since I always get in trouble my the Sandwich Maker. I get it; you don't like making grilled cheeses at 0430, but I don't enjoy wiping butt either at that hour...it's all apart of the job description! I get rude w/ them b/c they treat ppl soooooo horribly!!!!

To end this entry, I'd like to tell you things I do/don't believe it. I know I can be obnoxious w/ my opinions (like O'Reilly, himself), & I do believe there can be exceptions to every rule, so don't cast me out yet. Here goes:

Don't believe in:

ADHD/ADD: Kids, who wants to do homework?? I'd much rather watch TV too, but turn off the Play Station, & do your damn homework. While you're at it, play outside until the street lights come on, may do you some justice.

Fibromyalgia: Definition= Chronic pain (chronic mean lasting >6 mos). Really? Whose back doesn't hurt after working all day or eyeballs from staring at a computer screen? I'd like to cut my legs off half the time after I run, but I don't....& I don't take pain medicine. Man up!

Brazilian Butt Lift/P90x/diet pills: Umm, get your lazy butt off the couch, take away the potato chips, & do some lunges!!! Run, walk, lift weights, whatever. You don't need to get a booty boot after spending your life savings on Ally & Jillian Michael's tapes. Try exercising.

Any reality show about New Jersey: Real winners. They are darker than my Mexican relatives in TX. Stop w/ the orange spray tans. 'The Situation' came out w/ a book. Who knew he could read & write?? Can't wait to read about his 6pack & nasty girls he takes home every night. I may be from Alabama, but yeah, New Jersey, you look real cool.

SPCA/PETA: Really??? What about the children who get beat or live in orphanages? Enough said.

What I believe in:

Confession: Half my life in this Bible Belt state, I've been criticized for going to confession. You try admitting your faults/sins to someone, & tell me how it goes. It's embarrassing & afterwards, you decide that maybe you shouldn't do that again b/c you don't want to have to confess to another human being.

Music: Well, ppl that write their own music goes a lot farther. Music is probably one of my saving graces. I love to apply every lyric to my life, whether it's about a country singer who lost their dog or a rap song about losing yourself. Hahah. I could be retarded.

Paying it Forward: No good deed goes unnoticed.

Karma: It may contradict my religious beliefs, but I honestly believe you will be reimbursed for the good & bad things you do. When I screw up, it's not a day later, something bad happens to me. Look at my flat tire record, okay?

Mexican workers: I may be bias b/c my Grandma's name is Dora, but what else 74yr old do you know that works 40hrs/wk. She loves her job; she loves to work. They are verrrrry hard workers.


Enough is enough!! Bye Bye!!!! :)

Doing it & Doing it BIG

Hi!!
Get ready for some good stories:)

One more day before I start my 7 nights of work! The weather is fading into fall!!! Yes!

I went to my beloved AU this past wknd!!! If you recall, last time I went I kinda felt out of place, being an old graduate. Did I feel too old to be there this time? Yes, but I didn't care!! WDE! It was a phenom time- great food, friends, tailgating, & we won! My cousin T is neighbors w/ 4 of the football players. As we were rolling in after the game, so was one of her neighbors. Of course we run over there to congratulate, sing, & chant to him. We invite him over to eat with us. Poor guy had just worked his butt off & was hungry!

Sometimes, I open my mouth, words come out, & I look back & think "WHY would I say that???" I told this sweet football player that we had brownies! Then, I said, "...but there's nothing special in them."...only to find out he got suspended the 1st 2 games for marijuana!! AHHHH!! Like, I've never even had those type of brownies, so why would I say that?!?!!? It's okay though, I think b/c I made up for it by making sure he had enough to eat...& also telling him to remember me if/when he goes Pro. hahah...Doubt he'll want to remember me!

While in AU, I went running up T's street & back. It's funny to see all of the "college'd out cars"...souped up trucks w/ more stickers than Lisa Frank ever imagined & girls' cars w/ their sorority letters. When I purchased my new car, I retired the sorority stickers. Here I am, prob looking 30yrs old compared to them, only to come home to a car w/ a GOP sticker. Hah! I'll admit it's nice to have entered the career world though.

You know, this breakup has kinda been good for me. I've scored some free meals & drinks:) All I have to do is tell my sob story, & people say, "Oh, that asshole! Let me get you a drink!!" Hahha. Now, I would never take advantage of my sad, pitiful life (I'm so dramatic!) to get ahead, but I don't mind the benefits!!! Hahah. Kidding.

Music is my sanity. I like to think every song can be applied to my life. I only wish I could be so clever & talented to write those lines myself.

A few wks ago, I stopped by Auto Zone after wrestling toddlers for 12hrs & driving 2 hrs. Needless to say, I wasn't looking my best. I needed some Rain-X & Amorall (sp?). I enter the store & the cashier says, "Hello, hi, how are you??" I smile, "Good, thanks." As I'm walking through the isles, he speaks to me again. "Good morning to you too." I'm like dude, I'm trying to stay outta dodge b/c I saw someone from high school & was too tired to shoot the bull. I get in line. He asks aggggaiinnn how I am. I still smile b/c I hate to be rude. He takes my debit card, looks at the back, & asks to see my license. I'm thinking surely he doesn't think I'm trying to steal Rain-X. He goes, "Myyyy, that is a realllly good picture." Turning beet red, "Haha, thanks." "I mean, sorry, I just had to comment b/c usually they aren't good pics." "Hahah, yeah." Really? I leave after saying goodbye about 4x!

I get to my mom's & tell her the funny story. She's like, "Megan, he wanted to see your name or age or something...he didn't think you were committing credit card fraud." Hahahhah. I love my life.

Can I please say, I do not care about Justin Bieber!!! What is so great about this tween?? (It's not preteen anymore haha) I mean, go to school, hit puberty, & then try to sing! Every time I hear his songs, I think, "Oh, who's this new girl singer?" Ugh!! I'm so aggravated by him!!!

I watched Biggest Loser last p.m for the 1st time. Wow. I never knew it was so sad!! I got choked up several times. I also watched Keeping up with the Kardashians the other day. I usually just stick to shows like Law & Order: SVU, Shark Week, & Seinfeld. I'm a dork, yes. Back to my story, I don't know how I feel about the Kardashians. They're all pretty, but I don't understand whats so special.

See ya guys!!!!

My, How the Tables Have Turned.

"Nobody ever had a rainbow, baby, before they had the rain." Good quote Jim Croce..."Tomorrow's gonna be a brighter day, there's gonna be some changes."

Here I am 3wks later, back to being my independent, proud, single white female. Is my life in shambles? Sure it is. Will I get by & survive? Sure, I will. I always do. And Jim Croce, I've had more rain storms than the Amazon during monsoon season. This to shall pass.

Being the female that I am, I tried to take all blame for this breakup. I took blame for things I didn't even do just to try & work things out. I am VERY aware of my imperfections, & when I forget them, someone in my family quickly & firmly reminds me:) I was good as gold to that boy. Was it all my fault? No way, Jose!! I was dating a 22yr old! HELLO...which really means w/ an 18yr old's mentality. Ha. I'm bitter, no doubt. I deserve to be. When you don't get an answer to why your heart is being broken, what do you expect? Typical BOYS.

As funny as it is, Bill O'Reilly's Bold, Fresh Piece of Humanity is getting me through this. I love how arrogant he is b/c he's right. A quote, "Except---and accept nothing from anyone else. Do it yourself...and after you've succeeded, share some of what you've achieved with those not as strong as you will become...Taking stuff makes you weaker. Earning stuff makes you stronger." Although those statements are simple, they mean A LOT. In 2010, we are way weaker than in the 50's as far as working/earning goes. So many ppl are accepting help from parents, grandparents, the government. I'm here to tell you I don't make a killing, but I'll be damned if I get assistance. I've worked really hard to be where I am. Did it on my own, & I'ma keep doing it on my own.

Go ahead & call me Carry Bradshaw b/c this is my Sex & the City column. Hhaha. I write this personal info to you b/c I love expressing my feelings, as you've all learned. It helps me. I've been damaged throughout the years, & like Bill O'Reilly says, I will share my success with anyone who's willing to listen. My family has been so amazing. I've spent much needed time w/ them. 'Ole Daddio & I have kicked back w/ our brewskies & resolved a lot of past issues.

My mom is amazing. We didn't really have much of a relationship from my freshman yr in high school to my sophomore yr in college. It's hard for me at times b/c I easily build up animosity & resentment. I'm learning though, slowly but surely, that's not the way of life. I've forgiven. I may not have forgotten, but I'm realizing holding grudges to my loved ones only ends in pain for all of us. I'm the person I am today for all of this. Mama Kim has been there this past month w/ bells on. Rubbing my belly like I'm a sick 6yr old.

Not to mention the rest of my clan...they're all amazing. I'm soooo lucky to have the strong, foundation my grandparents set years ago. Grandpa Fred passed away 9yrs ago Aug 26. Still miss him daily. I was 14, & I didn't know you could miss grandparents so much, as bad as that may sound. God bless him.

Also, Ben Trussell's birthday was yesterday. RIP. We celebrated his life & surrounded ourselves around friends & music. Miss that kid too, bad. It was great to see his mom & hug & squeeze her so tight. Love & miss you buddy!!!!

As I looked at my patient who is terminal on Sunday, I thought, "Gah, we so easily take advantage of how great our lives are". We take for granted our smart phones, pedicures, pizza & beer, our luxurious cars, etc. When ppl may never get the chance to even get a driver's license, you know? Thank you, God, so much for letting me have loved ones, a job, a car, and my health. We all should sit back & thank him. Another thing about O'Reilly, he's a strong, faithful Catholic. He speaks of his spirituality which no one can ever take from us.

...Til next time.

Summer Time & the Livin's Easy

Hello all! Have no fear, the embarrassing stories have not ended; it's just summer time, & I've been on the go.

The Altima has a little more personality to it now after ordering a GOP sticker online to put in Rt rear corner!! She feels more confident now zipping in and out of those Blue Dots on the I-65. My sister says I shouldn't put things like that on my car b/c 'people have different views/opinions" Blah Blah, Ry! What's new. I've got to sport my Republican pride. (Not that they've stopped the Oil Spill or anything, but I'm still for 'em). Dad says I shouldn't put that on my car b/c I live in the "city". hhaha. Don't worry, Pops, I can hold my own. Next time I blog, I will have tried and named her.

I did successfully hit my first curb, & God must have been on my side b/c I left with not a scratch. It's weird going on road trips not having to turn the radio down every 2min to check & see if I have a flat tire....you know it's still in the back of my head, though.

Work is great! Loving the kids. I still feel like a novice nurse, but that will come in time. It's comforting to know nurses that have worked 30yrs still ask Q's & get 2nd opinions. I can tell that the depressing aspect will never get any better as I can see on my charge nurse's face when we get a sad case. It's all worth it though, in the end.

C and I doing fineeeeeeeee. He drove me to the 'ole annual OHIO checkup. I've never taken a boyfriend to see Dr. K, so it was kind of serious. We had a great time, eating at places of Man vs. Food (i.e. gaining 10lbs), walking 5.1 miles in sandals downtown only to find out the Brewery we were headed to had moved, & trekking through the Flash Flood warning of N. High St. Hahah. In all honesty, it was a great little getaway, even when the nurse asked me about my bowel habits & if I had a weight problem. Of course, I HAVE a WEIGHT PROBLEM; I'm a 23y/o female, & it's almost bathing suit weather!!!! C knows me well, though, b/c when I came out of the gas station, he had placed a pack of Pepto on my pillow in the front seat:) hahah.

We were in IKEA the other day...P.S...have you ever been there?!? The place is crazy & has everything you can imagine. They have rooms on display that you can pretty much say I want this, and they install everything from the bed & mattress to dishwashers & and shower curtains to potted plants. They have every style, color, pattern, female/male choices you could ever want/need. My sandal broke once we hit the bottom level (there are 3 or 4 & a lunch room!) , so I had to walk like I had a limp the next 1.5hrs. I tried to talk to myself to calm me until I realized I then looked like a crazy w/ a limp. hahaha.The thing is, that I usually have about 11 extra pairs of shoes including running shoes, comfy, everyday flip flops, dressier flip flops, sandals, & even stillettos...I had just cleaned my car out the day before. Speaks volume.

Alright guys, going to enjoy the rest of my day off. Will return soon, promise! Love!

2 months later.

Heyo! The weather has been sooo beautiful, minus the 4in film of pollen on everything! It's been a busy 2 months. Been to the beach 2x, purchased a car, my cousin's getting married this wknd, etc! So much to share w/ you guys.

Still working up a storm. Kind of missing school. Not like the college experience, but the actual learning part. Whoa, I'm a nerd. Plus I don't like paying $250/mo in loans! hah. I' want to travel nurse, rake in the bucks, gain a ton of experience, & see some more of our great country. Looks like I better get it in before this "health care plan" passes since my paycheck is will go to crap. You need a yr or more of experience, so I'm just waiting until Oct. I need to get back into school too, though, so I just don't know what do w/ my life. UAB is the #1 nursing grad school in the US, but I would love to live in TN, too. The STRESS.

Speaking of this preposterous health care plan...the GOP has made several amendments (thank Heavens)...one which includes: Sex offenders will not be eligible for erectile dysfunction drugs. How ridic is it that that even needs to be stated?...but I love it. Makes perfect, logical sense!

I've been seeing a guy whom I met at our late beloved, Ben Trussell's tribute. Funny how things work out. He was a close friend to Ben too, so it's peculiar how we never met until the night of the tribute, Feb 14. It's different than anything before, so I'm soaking it all in. 2 months has seemed like 6 in a good way.

Car shopping has been a job. The '99 Honda has needed daily interventions, soo I thought it may be time to throw the towel in. I've been doing car research since Jan...wasn't going to let those car salesman get the best of me!! haha. I even asked to look under the hood!! Really the only things I knew to look for were where the oil dipstick is, where to add antifreeze/H2O, and if it had 4cylinders. haha. Saturday, I bought a new Altima (prob devalued about 4grand when I drove off the lot, but whatev) We were there from 1030-330!! C came w/ me b/c he's great (goodness knows I wouldn't want to sit through all that!). Well, wait a minute, it was about the hottest day of the yr, & during a test drive, he turned my heat warmer on. Punk. I was already profusely sweating from 'the Anxiety'. hahha.

We hadn't eaten all day. We were about to close up shop, doing a few housekeeping things like going over the inside of the car, ANDDDD the lady says, "Oh, hold on one minute, I've got to run to the restroom." WHATTTT? hahahha. I mean I didn't know if she suffered from IBS or overactive bladder, but come on! My stomach's eating my gallbladder, lady! hah. I love my new car, but she just doesn't have any personality yet. Hmm. Maybe w/ time? Then again, the Honda has too much personality...banged up on each side from curbs, buggies, cars, etc.

Remember the Aunt Mary's pants story? Well, that night MG, some buds of ours, and I went to play trivia. Funny enough that our team name was, "I didn't know I was playing trivia w/ the Situation"...mocking the announcer who looked like that Guido from Jersey shore. Needless to say, we started out on a bad foot. It's packed in there. They ask 3 questions, you score accordingly to the confidence of your answer 2-6pts. We never win, but hell, we give her a try! J is walking back from the bathroom. The Q is something about Jimi Hendrix's first guitar/song/something. J yells "SEATTTTLE!" Just guuuureat. "The Situation" yells back at him, "Thatta way, deusch." Uh oh. hahhahaha. So we weren't making friends, to say the least.

Alright, I'll be back soon! Love!

The Last Song

There are 3 types of overdose. Some ppl OD for attention, some OD in hopes to really end their life, & some OD b/c they think just one more hit will help them reach the ultimate high. Well, in this case, ultimate=death.

In my short 23yrs, I feel like I have been exposed to many different situations. The first 2 types of ODing, I have witnessed. I did the whole cancer thing as a child, both of my parents could have been on Intervention at one time, & I have a sister whom society might classify as handicapped. I don't usually play this card, but my parents divorced & I've dealt w/ stepparents, half-siblings. Not that these things have been bad, but when you go through that kind of stuff, you can relate to more ppl & you see things in a different light. Times have been rough before, & I'm still here. Life consists of trials & tribulations; you just deal w/ it. Even little things like growing up Catholic in the Southern of Southern Bible belt. Everything you encounter, you take something from it, whether it be -/+. Don't get me wrong, I've been negative about a lot of things, but I still have this mentality that whatever it is, you can get through it. I expect everyone to come out on top. The thing I most often forget is that not everyone has the support system I have. My family is the greatest in the world, & my parents instilled such great values in us. Everyone's got a little dys in their function.

What I'm getting at is that I hate to see someone fall when they could have been saved. Even when times hit rock bottom, there is still light ahead. Of all the experiences I've had, nothing could have prepared me for February 7, 2010 11:38am. The world lost a very special person that day. This is my story, how I see it.

At 10:57, I was driving my cousin's car to retrieve some things from my car from the Docks. My cousin A knew I would be out & about, yet he didn't know when, if I had left yet, or not. Pulling out of the parking lot where my car was, I get a phone call. "Can you go pick up V, they took Ben to the hospital." I was just about to pass the cabins that they were at, coincidence? Ben, a glorious spirit, talented musician, & humble 25y/o was one of our great friends from out of town, even though at times he seemed to be an original Scottsborian. He's been around since 2008. Throughout those 2 yrs, he had managed to play for my Aunt's wedding, my graduation party, my cousin's parties, & every few wknds at the Docks (Restaurant/ Night life). We would drive to Huntsville just to see Ben, even if we had just heard him the day before. He did a lot of covers, but he also shared many originals w/ us. The melodies he could create were unbelievable. Words would flow from his mouth like an angel above. To top it off, he had an amazing personality, cracking jokes, and being sweet when necessary. He became apart of our little family, & he brought his family around us, too. He was very family oriented. Not living in my hometown, my family & friends grew closer to him than I did, but it didn't take long to fall in love w/ him. Canoe trips, being on the lake, eating at Hooter's, having heart to hearts about our families, watching AU football, going to A & M's house to see Ben living on the couch for the past 3 days. He had a little bit of a gypsy soul.

So when I received that phone call about him, I quickly assumed drug overdose, pump the stomach w/ charcoal, & call it a day. Not that I should think so lightly of the it all, but w/ my experiences of OD & working at a hospital where I see about 6-15 ingestions/month, that's what I assume. Not sure if you guys remember but in a previous entry, I mentioned how the greatest musicians died early, esp from drugs. He falls into that category...more potential, talent, love than most. Addiction is a dirty disease, & if ppl could only reach out for help before it's too late.

When I got to the cabin, I realized it was way more serious than I thought. The firetruck was pulling out & there were a few police cars remaining. I've known Ben's family since this summer, but not well enough to be there at that time. Taking my nurse role, I assessed the situation, tried to calm everyone, & plan what we needed to do. His mom was still there, so I offered to take her to the ER. We get in the car, not sure if I should put on my flashers & get there ASAP, drive normal, what. V & his mom are about to hyperventilate in the car. I start saying Hail Mary's. It is 11:21am as we drive to the ER. We get there, I hop out ready to run in the hospital. His mom stops & says, "I'm scared." I grab her, doing my best to console in this intense situation.

My grandma has lost 2 of her baby boys, one who was 13 & the other around 44. Even though she is the strongest woman a lot of ppl know, all my life she has broken down about her Billy. Then at Uncle Andy's funeral, I witnessed her squeal harder than I could ever imagine at the loss of a son. No parent should outlive their children. I'm scared too as we walked in, in fear for his mom.

V, his mom, & I walk into the consultation room. I wasn't sure if I should go or not, but she didn't have any family there, so I knew V & I would have to be for now. This doesn't look good. The EMT's come in then a nurse asking about health problems & what not. I txt my cousin A, get here now, he didnt' have a pulse the whole way to the ER. Then the MD walks in & tells us. It's over.

We hold her. Some other friends walk in. The ER waiting room fills w/in minutes of his Scottsboro friends. His older brother gets there. His dad is on the way to town. We stay there for about 2 1/2 hrs just standing outside of the consultation room where his family is. Seeing a grown man cry that day was nothing surprising. The hold that Ben had on us was like no other. For him to leave us, really hit the group hard. This is the worst thing we've ever experienced. Nobody knew what to say, so we shared funny stories of him & cried & cried & cried.

February 6, 2010- E & T's Stock the Bar Shower...Ben played. After the shower, we all went to the Docks, where he also played. Anytime he was playing, you know we were all up dancing, singing out hearts out. He had to have hated us trying to out-sing him & dancing like we knew how. It came to the point where we wanted to hear more of his originals than covers. (Even though he DOES sing "Into the Mystic" better than Van Morrison, himself.) I never realized how precious he was until that day. He came up to me, told me he hadn't drank in a few wks, was eating right, & exercising. I cheered him on. It really was a phenomenal p.m. Half of my cousins were there, Aunt M & Uncle C, & all of my friends. Ben knew how to draw a crowd. The last time I never knew I'd see Ben was around 0230a Feb 7, 2010.

We are just a small portion of his friends. Ben played w/ many other talented musicians & acquired many fans, regulars, & admirers.

Here I am today still dreaming about him, reminiscing, mourning, & listening to his music every time I drive. I am mad he's gone for many reasons: he was too young to die, he should't have died that way, he had much more to accomplish & would have musically, he needs to be here this summer strumming his guitar when we're all on the boat. One thing about Ben is that if you ever asked him to play, he never said "Nah, I don't feel like it...Later." He didn't play guitar to look cool or get girls (which came w/ it anyway:) ), or to say I'm a musician, blah blah. He was the epitome of a humble man. You usually don't find that in a 25y/o. He is w/ God now though, which is the sweetest gift he'll ever receive.

We miss you, Ben... and in his own words: "There's people we lost, ohh people love, yeah. Some call it irony, but I call it signs from above."

Is your nose running? Better go catch it!!!

Back again. On this frigid 30th of Jan, I'm sitting here engaging in "Tough Love" (Vh1 Season 2. Kind of your He's just not that into You but w/ a we're going to tell you how to get a man so stop caking on your makeup & gold digging twist) & drinking coffee at 0532p. My roommate is gone so I have even more time to dwell on the embarrassing moments of my life.

I probably picked the wrong profession being the most awkward person ever. Every single job I've had, I've had to put myself out there, creating chances upon chances to be embarrassed. Should have been a telemarketer. Back in my vet tech days, I had dogs lose bowels on me in front of attractive guys or one time, a German Shepard rip my "smock" top from the waist to shoulder seam. Then the lady asked me to hold her BABY while she put the dog in the car. NO MA'AM! So he can go Cujo on me??! To top it off, all I could do was laugh b/c I was shaking uncontrollably after the mouth of JAWS came towards my flesh!

In the restaurant business, I began as a hostess. Not too shabby of a job for me b/c I love to smile and carry on w/ ppl. HOWEVER, not everyone wants to carry on w/ me. Can't see why?!? Then as a server, you have ppl jumping down your throat b/c they've chugged 47 Dr. Pepper's in 4 min, & you don't have time to refill or their food is late. You don't need all that sugar/caffeine anyway!I hate confrontation or anything that could possibly make me sweat, get flushed (which is about everything).

As a nurse, I do encounter extremely awkward moments on average- daily. They didn't tell us in nursing school that you also had to be an engineer. The cap never comes off the IV tubing after you've already prepped everything. Inserting catheters are A LOT different than practicing on mannequins. Wires tangle worse than Weeping willow on a windy day. Not too mention, I'm clumsy, ungraceful, and as hard as I try to not be, unladylike. What do you do?

Helping a nurse 2 nights ago drawing blood. X-Ray guy is at the bedside too. The team of MD's to my right. I'm leaned over the bed. (P.S. my nose runs nonstop once I enter the Hospital. It's clear though (sorry, super gross), so it's not an infection. Not sure why?) As I'm leaning over I can see what appears to be my nose running...Not sure b/c it's clear. Then I do see it hanging from my nose pass recovery. The other nurse says "Ohhhh." I said, 'Oh Gosh!" as I turn around trying to clean up w/out touching anything. FAILURE. I have to walk off, fix myself, wash my hands, & return. Redder than a cherry tomato, I attempt to make light of the situation & say, "Sorry guys, looks like I have the RSV!" NOT A SOUND. No one laughs, no one says 'oh, no prob', no one even says gross!!!!! MORTIFIED.

The 1st word of OCD is obsessive. That's what I do. I wasn't really close enough w/ the nurses to be like, "Whoa, listened to what happened to me. Say something to make me feel better", so I sit there for the next 11 HOURS laughing, almost crying, obsessing. Hahah. I really am such an odd bird. Probably should be on the OCD show on A&E. I pretty much have a complex about every inch of my body. I'm proportional but I do have my Dad's hands/feet. Size 9 1/2 isn't always the prettiest. I like to have my nails painted/manicured at all times b/c it makes me feel more feminine. Oh wait, I entered a profession where nail polish/jewelry is prohibited. To reveal my craziness, when I'm driving for a long time or making frequent stops, I get so anxious that ppl are looking at how big my hands are gripping the steering wheel, esp since my wrists are small, making the illusion worse. I ponder should I drive 10 & 2, one hand on the bottom, one on the top. It becomes an issue. Then when they don't see a ring on my finger, they're thinking no wonder- MAN HANDS (like the Seinfeld episode). In reality, no one probably notices, but I'm sure there's that one person. hahah.

It's been that way since I day one. I've always been so stinking obsessive-compulsive! For some reason wearing open toe shoes in elementary was a big deal. Not sure why, but I would not wear sandals unless my toes were painted, which wasn't on a regular basis. I can remember one night staying up so late (prob around 0930 ha) trying to get that damn iridescent purple just right! I probably went through an entire bottle of nail polish remover & cotton balls. I was convinced that their were alligators under my bed, probably a lot longer than I should have. I would never put my feet under my bed or hang them off the side, & I'm still that way TODAY as a 23y/o!!! Vampires? Don't even get me started. I slept w/ my covers tucked tight around my neck for my entire 3rd grad yr just from seeing Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Oh The Lost Boys. It came on last wk, & I still couldn't watch it!!!) I begged Mom to please let me have the garlic at Grandma's house. That is not healthy! hhaha.

Embarrassing story #2. Aunt Mary & my cousin Erin came to visit Tues. We had the best of time! Wed, we went shopping. I had finished trying on so I was sitting w/ E waiting on Mary. She came out of the room & asked us how we liked her shirt. We both loved it. I told her how cute it was, & then it went sour. I said, "Buy the shirt for sure, but I'm not soooo sure about those pants." My dearest Aunt says, "These pants are the pants I wore in!" hahahahhahahah UH OH. I said, "just kidding." Didn't work. hahahha. Dangit. Who am I? I have got to stop talking!!!!!

Luckily, she took it lightly, & honestly, w/ her shirt the pants looked just fine, according to myself, the fine fashion critic I am. ha.

Have a good wknd!!! Love!

You Can't Have your Cake & Eat it Too.

Here I am! There's so much to cover in this entry! We've had a the holidays, MY BIRTHDAY, & clearly, I'm a working woman now (haha). I'm now 23 with a full time job, health insurance in my own name, and putting a % of my check into a 401k. Whoa, that was a little much for me to say. In reality, though, I LOVE IT! As cheesy or trite this may seem, it really is amazing to have the job you've dreamed of for yrs & actually enjoy it. I'm now on the graveyard shift; sleep is tough, money is good. I'm young & might as well do it now! I worked in the burn unit yesterday. It was very upsetting & depressing. I respect anyone who can work in that environment. That's where my wonderful Grandma Dora started out at John Sealy in Galveston, TX!!

I'm kind of stuck in a place in my life wondering where to go. I know what I need & want, but I don't always do the things needed to get there. Most of my friends are still in college, so I'm still in that mentality. At least I was. I went to visit T in Auburn this past Friday. Auburn really is the most gorgeous college campus/town in AL. We make an appearance at a get together. We walk in & mingle like the little butterflies we are. For some reason, I decide to stand back & look around. I'm the only brunette, for one, & I realize everyone there is living up their Fridays b/c they were in class all day. There are freshman to 5yr seniors all around. No doubt that I had fun w/ my friends, but I was a little bummed. I mean I'm only 23, but I'm too old to be around those youngins. Hhaha. LIFE.

Story: getting put in my place. My birthday, which my mom & I think is the most important day of the yr was Dec. 30. I know I seem a bit obnoxious, but growing up, my mom made the biggest deals out of every one's bdays. Anddddd, actually you should. It's the only day you have to yourself. It need be celebrated & appreciated to have made it one more yr!!!!! I celebrate w/ my friends on the 29th. Being the loud & somewhat too intense person that I am, I let everyone know it's my bday starting on Dec 26-Jan 4. (Extreme.) On my actual bday my family (42+) go out for dinner. My family really is the limelight of my life. We're all so much stinking alike, there are plenty of us to go around, & we sure all enjoy a little R&R to maybe some wine, PBR, or Busch Gold. Yep, that's us. Well my cousin A & I make our way around town on this glorious day of mine. There's live music, phenomenal, but the crowd- what a dud. I decide to be my normal self esp a few brewskies later & announce to the crowd that it, in fact, is my birthday during a song break. Let's just say, it was so quiet I could hear the faucet drip in the bathroom. I become ever so offended, look around, & say, "WHO ARE YOU PPL?! REALLY?" Needless to say, I wasn't the coolest person of the p.m.

Can you have your cake & eat it too? Do you feel like that saying is a contradiction? If I have some cake, you better be sure I'm going to eat it. Probably all of it to be exact. However, it is a saying I throw out all the time in arguments or when I realize I'm being selfish. It's like not wanting a boy anymore, but you don't want him to be with anyone else either. I totally see how it applies to that, b/c as a female, I know we always feel that way. In literal translation, I don't think you would have a cake & let it sit there. It would mold, & then the icing will get hard & crusty. Hmm, maybe that's what would happen to the boys if you didn't let anyone else have them? By golly, I think I just figured it out!! hahahahha

I'm reading Liberty & Tyranny. Quite a delight it is. It's very informative & quotes the Founders/Framers of this country with what the Constitution stands for. I was reading it at work (400am), & being the nerd I am, I was highlighting & underlining. Some nurses asked what I was reading. When told, they were like, "OH, sure sounds good." Sorry, I only read non-fictional books, & I'm learning a hell of a lot!

I'll be back soon, promise! There are a few more funny/embarrassing stories up my sleeve! LOVE!

Can You Transfer me to Security?

Oh, how my memory failed me these last few blogs. I haven't even begun to enlighten you about all my car luck.

Labor Day Wknd. Friday- 332p, just got off work, still in scrubs & all. Just me & my poor 1999 little Honda on the road again. Make it 26 miles on the interstate, take my exit (I take the little highway- more scenic). After fillin' her up, I drive away. Temperature gauge is off the charts!! Hot as Hades. Grey smoke everywhere. I pull over into some sketch factory w/ buses and huge tanks. What do I do? I'm just a little 'ole girl? Start dialing numbers to alleviate some of the anxiety. Mom says to pop the hood. NOO, that's international sign for I need help. Seems weird that I say that, but could someone really do to help me? (I had had a mild incident w/ the temp gauge that Monday, & my gracious roommate gave me some Antifreeze.) I drove 1/2 mile down the road, had to pull over for 30+ min, try again, pull over, try again. I finally make it to a post office. It's kind of like I don't want be around anyone b/c I don't want them to offer to help me, & me just say no. Yet, I don't want them to drive by & not offer! I'm thinking, PHEW, I'm okay it's about 5p on Fri, the post office is closed. No sir. Ppl were flying in and outta there! I'm talking to MG on the phone, actively pouring antifreeze into my car, sweating in my purple scrubs. A lady pulls up like she's late for dinner w/ the Pres., throws that Benz into park in a HANDICAP spot (You can prob guess she wasn't handicap.) She approaches me. I begin to think, either she's really late in sending a letter or naturally concerned about her fellow (wo)man. She's on her cell phone too..."Excuse me, excuse me miss, I know you're busy, but can you tell me how to get back to I65?" A little appalled, I tell her how to get there as I'm wiping sweat from my brow. REALLY? I mean really, lady? Just by judging my 1st appearance, do you think I know what I'm doing & you want to ask me for DIRECTIONS?! Hahah. Oh, my life.

Eventually made it to a fire station- it was VOLUNTEEEERR so no one was there!!!!!! What? No one at the fire station? Ludacris! Every guy who stops to help me, I can't help but think they are Ted Bundy. My ride finally shows up 3 1/2 hrs later. I was about 400ft & a curve away from a car garage. Ha. I could have put her in neutral & pushed her there! Wait, who am I kidding? I'd die of a panic attack before that.

Yesterday, walking up the stairs in the parking garage that I lose my car in daily, I pass my car. Turn around, embarrassed, approach that little Racy Honda. Keys in the ignition, but nothing happens when I turn it...sounds like eeeeeeeesssdddeeraa. Oh no. People are walking by & OF COURSE they're looking at me...haha. I toss the anxiety aside & lift the hood. "Operator, can you transfer me to security? My car won't start." "Um, I mean, I can, but he's on another call. It'll be a while."..."That's fine! Thanks." Ummm, so you don't want him to come help me? Should I just walk home? Catch a Grey Hound? Who are these ppl?!!? He drives by w/ these crazy NEON GREEN flashers pointing at me, like is it you that is having trouble? Nooo, I'm just hanging out/soliciting in the Children's Hospital parking garage. Bless him, he really was sweet. Telling me how to get corrosion off my battery. The car starts! Time to hit up Auto Zone. I only know of 1 Auto Zone, happens to not be in the best part of town. I pull up, grab my wallet, LOCK THE DOORS, & walk in. I have just entered the most inner-racial group of ppl per ca pita in the US. (Not that's it's a problem, but there's so many different languages being spoken, & after wiping baby bottoms all day, I was still the cleanest person.) A cute little Mexican helps me. The battery is shot. Dead. No mas.

We go back into the store. I purchase a battery & ask him to install it. That's out of my league. I can check/add antifreeze, oil, water, butttt I really don't need to touch anything else. You remember that I'm pretty much a cluster? As he's working on my car, I can't help but think that he may be illegal, working well over 40hrs/wk to provide for his family, while all in the mix of getting caught up in a gang. (Too much Tru TV for me.) He asks me where I work since I was wearing scrubs. "Children's Hospital." "Ohh, so you work w/ children?" (Hhaah, aw.) "Yeah, I can tell b/c you know ppl who work w/ children are just happy."...I chuckle. He proceeds, "Which I guess is good b/c you don't want angry ppl working w/ children." "This is true." He has to go inside to get scissors b/c his tool bag did not have any. He looks at me, "Will you make sure no one steals my tools?" WHATTTTTTT? STEAL? You better make sure no one steals me!!!!!! I mean, he was serious as can be! Where am I?, I think to myself. Being observant of my surroundings, I'm like freaking radar, catching every little movement!

He also tells me my tires are low. Always something. I added air today, but think I may have put too much. Guess we'll find out tom, if my tires pop while driving down the interstate. haha.

It's probably about time to turn her in for a new one. This time, it would be wise on my part to invest in a SVU, something w/ tires of steel, & taller than most curbs. A dark color in case buggies randomly run into my door. Maybe a Humvee. Buttt w/ a depth perception problem like mine, I need it to comfortably fit in parking spots of all sizes & make sharp curves just fine. We'll see.

You need to see my license? Which one?! Driver's or Nursing?!

I have credentials now!!!! My initials are... M.H., RN, BSN! Yes! As I awaited to take my boards, I developed a few more stomach ulcers and added 10 yrs of stress to my life. I went in on a Monday a.m. Not sure what to expect. I pretty much went through security clearance. I had to take a picture. I wasn't sure if I should smile or not, until I did and the man laughed at me. Typical. So my pic is repulsive in the middle of a look of fret and half-smile. I decided it may be wise to no ask him to retake it. (Remember, Dora is my grandmother, so vanity is an issue).

For the NCLEX, you can have a minimum of 75 - 265 Q's. Everyone I have talked to in my nursing class had 75 Q's. I set myself up for about 90-100 Q's to attempt & decrease my anxiety (Anx- Nursing Abbreviation!). Well, 90 gets there, 100 comes, OH CRAP 200 Q's. I'm too scared to take a break b/c I can't waste 1 second! They wouldn't let me take anything in- no gum, water, tissue. Excuse me!? My nose was running like a freight train, my palms were getting sweaty, and my stomach was SCREAMING at me! 4 1/2 hrs later...I walk out. I just want to crawl out so that I don't have to make eye contact w/ other ppl. I knew they weren't thinking "FOUR HRS? Oh you failed!" Buttttt w/ the bldg being freaking CIA-Pentagon clearance, I had to fingerprint before I left.

2 days of agony; I knew I didn't pass. Everyone was saying, "Sure you did, Megan, you just have bad luck, so that's prob why you had the MAXIMUM amt of Q's" DUH, I have bad luck; that's why I have this blog! I was going to find out at 8a Wed by checking the AL Board of Nursing website. My name isn't up. TIME TO THROW UP. My friend txt me, The system is DOWN!!!!!!!" Not sure when results will be up. Really? I just think that maybe God is just waiting b/c he doesn't want me to be sad yet. 1112 rolls around. I PASSSSSSSSSED!!!!! I did a double take. I kept refreshing the screen to make sure that they hadn't made a mistake! haha!
Yesssssssssssssss!!!! Yipee! Can't believe it. (For the record, just b/c I had 265 Q's, I know I'm going to be a good nurse, so no worries!)

In orientation this week, there are only 3 newly hired nurses. Stinking budget. For those who have never heard my voice, wellll, it's a little on the raspy side. ESP in the a.m. Whoa. I range from sounding like Mini Mouse to a 60 y/o smoker. I start to clear up around noon. The nurse orienting us says, "Megan, do you sing?" Choking on my coffee, "Excuse me? I'm sorrrrrry." "Do you sing?" "OHHH NO." "Really? You sound like you have a voice of a singer." Hhahah. I crack up. I turn to another new nurse and explain I don't really know why I've sounded so hoarse all wk. She replies, 'Oh, you don't always sound like that?" -Murphy's Law.

In gunshot hearing, thief-filled Wal-Mart, MG & I decide to go shopping. There are cops, ambulances, handcuffs. Not surprised anymore. We're in the fancy bread section. I see what appears to be a big tortilla, so I state that exactly. Of course MG has already walked off, so I'm left talking to myself....I thought. This girl corrects me saying that it is "Taaiiiaia bread." (no offense, she was Asian. I could not understand.) "Excuse me?" "It's so-in-so bread. I know. My roommate is Indian" (Coulda guessed that). Oh no, missy, I have some ethnicity to me too! "Oh, it looks my Gma's tortillas." "No, it's so-in-so bread!" Whatever girl! You don't correct me! I don't know you!

Is it bad that I'm blogging to you guys listening to Cher? BABY IT'S ALL OR NOTHING NOWWWW! Just a little greatest hits, mostly from the 80's. When they sent my license to me- they also sent the picture!!!!!! Pretty goofy looking but I don't know if I can throw it away!? And by throw it away, I mean SHRED it! Ha.

Okay, enough is enough! I'm a working girl now, so I need to go pack my lunch for tomorrow. Hahha. Love!

Hey Guys! I know I have abandoned you, but I really have been thinking about you! Every time something embarrassing or funny happens to me (daily), I think about how I need to blog that story! I couldn't even go to sleep last night because of all the things I was trying to remember to blog! Some would say I'm kind of a nerd, but I blame it on OCD.

First things first, I graduated!!!!!!! No more undergraduate nursing school! Hallelujah! Now, just by the Grace of God, I will pass my boards (NCLEX) and have my nursing license. I will be working at Children's Hospital, the only one in Alabama! I consider it a gift to love to work with children AND adults because so many nursing pick one or another. I did my preceptorship (internship) on a Surgical ICU at UAB, working with primarily adults. I loved it, all 225hrs of it in 11 wks.

I won't lie. I struggled in my last class of nursing school- Leadership & Management, partly b/c I was so over school and also because, well just because. I had a ridic teacher. You think that's what they all say. For the past 2yrs, all of my tests have been online, except this class. There were 3 exams, and for the first 2, she didn't have enough copies. She entered the classroom w/ 30 copies, knowing there were 84 students. Of course, with Murphy's Law, I was the last to get an exam both times, heightening my test anxiety. I met with her and approached the topic. She said, "Now, Megan, when your first patient codes, you will get stressed out." OH, how I love UAB. I said, "Correct, but you can control how many copies of the test you print, so really, that has nothing to do with a code."

Anyhow, thank goodness, it's over with! For the first time, I feel pretty accomplished and confident in my knowledge (medical wise, that is). However, the train ride isn't over yet. I have that test still before me. Cross your fingers.

Last Tuesday, after a scrumptious dinner at my sister's and soon to be brother-in-law (YAY!), the guys were picking guitar for my Grandma and I. They were playing the infamous "Last Dance with Mary Jane". My 74 y/o Grandma Dora looks at me and says, "You know 'Mary Jane' is?" I said "Yes ma'am (chuckled)...OHHH that's what this song is about??!" Yep, that was me. BUT, in my defense, in the music video, there is a girl in it, who I always thought was Mary Jane!! HHahha.

Mary Merlot, you remember, my cat, has become quite the Miss Kitty. Beautiful as ever, may be a few lbs heavier, but she'll lose it. She stays inside. Never goes outside. She used to escape, but not anymore. She knows better. Do you think it's bad to keep a cat inside? I've debated the issue. We were sleeping the other day, and every little creek, sound, movement, she got freaked out. Now, you tell me, she's not too much of a scaredy cat to live outside. Eh?

Getting my nails done before a wedding, I notice, my manicurist staring at me. Everyone always tells me that ppl really aren't looking at me as much as I think they are, but this story proves that I am right. First of all, she poured something into her bottled water that resembled what the big black guy from Green Mile expels from his mouth to cure people. Ew. So they speak their language, which is already kind of rude b/c I may not comprehend it, but I pick up on when you're talking about me!! She gets loud talking to another lady- the lady replies laughing- the owner replies with a smile- and someone in the BACK yells back. My lady starts cracking up...hysterically. I look at my mom and mouth they're talking about me! "No, no, they're not" Yeah, she doesn't know anything. The owner man comes to me and asks, "You have your nose fixed?" I look at him in disgust. He asks again. My mom says, "No, she was born that way?" I'm like, "No, this is my real nose." He says, "She just tink it so pritty. Wonder if it fixed? Come up so high." I said, "No, this is my nose, OKAY?" Mom says, "Oh, Megan, she's complimenting you on how high your nose comes up." (Really, Mom?) He says, "Everybaudy get they nose fixed. Like Michael Jackson." Seriously, now? Everyone gets a nose job, and you compare me to MJ? (Rest his soul wherever he may be). In the past 22yrs, no one has ever said I've had a pretty snauze!! Not happy about it, no sir.

A few weeks later, it's time for another pedi and mani before my graduation party. My beautiful family is in from TX (the Hispanic side. I'll tell you Grandma Dora & Grandpa Bill knew what they were doing to create such great offspring). The same lady does my nails. Oh great. At least this time, she didn't have that freaky water that made me think we were about to enter the Matrix. Another lady approaches me with a phone and her ATT phone bill. "You know what tese $7 are for?" (No lady, I don't even know your plan, let alone your name.) She asked me translate for her on a 1-800 call! What a mess my life is. I was not even able to enjoy my pedicure b/c I was too busy translating a stinking ATT phone bill & the Deer Hunting game her son downloaded. Not to sound ill-cultured, but I didn't think Asians hunted deer?? Just saying. She didn't even give me a discount!

Well, I must pack for the weekend. Labor Day! Yipee! Going on an overnight canoe trip! Will return soon since school is over. Enjoy your weekend!

Love!

May 2009!

Hello all! It's been far too long since my last post! I finished up exams, passed my classes (haha), and went to the beach for a few days! I begin my 5th semester of nursing school tomorrow, and will ever so anxiously be counting down the days until August 8!!!!

It's always so hard to get back into the swing of things and master your routine after a few days off. After going through 117+ emails, I was quite shocked at one my dad sent. It was a link to CNN politics. Summary: The National Institutes of Health are paying researchers to cruise bars in Buenos Aires to find out why gay men engage in risky sexual behavior while drunk. Whoa! Really? The researchers are getting paid $400, 000!! So much for the bad economy, eh? I think there are more pertinent things we could be 'researching'. I can tell you what information they're going to get out of that: Gay men tend to be more promiscuous and alcohol consumption makes you lose your inhibition. What happens when more people engage in sexual activity: rise in STDs. The end NIH. They should have hired me!!!

I went home a few weekends ago. Had a great time, of course. We had a family get-together for a cousin's 2nd birthday. This get-together was a little more peculiar though because my mom and dad were there at the same time in the same place. Long overdue. Both sides of my family were there. We all had such a terrific time! Even with drinking involved, mom & dad got along GUREEEEAT! What a pleasant surprise that left me totally content.

On the beautiful beach of Destin, FL, us 5 girls encountered a lot!! I was so excited for J from Philly to get to see the gorgeous water of Destin! One little problem- we were there during a full moon, and doesn't something happen with the gravitational pull and full moon with the ocean?! If not, I definitely like to think so. The first 2 days were stunning...then our 3rd, we walked up to a toothbrush, plastic fork, an onion. plastic containers w/ crustateans, etc. To top things off, some kids beside us that were about our age, pull a box out of the ocean. I'm not sure if it was a box-box, or like a coral-ameoba kind of thing. One guy pulled out an OCTUPUS!!!!!!!!! Yes. I try to uninitiate my gag reflex by seeing this slimy, squidy creature with 8 legs. We all gather around like we're zoology majors. This kid thew it back in the ocean!!! The thing was practically dead, and I was about to get back in that water. Goofball.

B & I walk down to escape the 'ocean fill' (not a land fill, since we were in water). We sipping on a few, playing on the sandbar, getting a tan. Of course, we get approached by an older man. We start to shoot the bull. I tell him about the octupus. He asks if it was still alive, so quick-witted me, I say, "Well, it was definitely on it's last leg." HAHHAHAH. He laughed pretty hard as well! Allllllrrrrrrriiiiight!

The ride down there was a little insane, as well. MG took her last final, and we hopped on the road. Right as we lock our apartment door, a monsoon comes and the bottom falls out. We contemplate running, but then a gravity wave force of wind comes through with thunder/lightning, everything else. 30 minutes later, we get in the car, go to the gas station- the rain stops!!!! Of course. We had to drive 40mph the whole way past Montgomery. I thought it was Armageddon. Two men (65+) pass us on a 2-lane road, neither of them with license plates. Hha. We stop at the gas station before reaching Destin and buy some beer. Well, ole' Tom Thumb likes to scan your ID any and every which way! The machine wasn't reading mine, so he's reluctantly gave it back and sold the beer to me. I said, "Look, it's legit!!" The Tom Tom got us a lost, but eventually, we made it, as frazzled as can be.

To be continued...

We All Put on Our Shoes the Same Way.

Hello again. I'm limited time b/c Saving Grace comes on next!!

If you are unaware, the Top 100 One Hit Wonders came on VH1 for like 3 dys in a row. J & I were watching it singing our little hearts out. "Don't worry, be happy" came on. I exclaim how much I love Bob Marley! Bob Marley doesn't sing that song :(

Saturday clinical 7-7- ew. Pediatric Rotation. I guess I'm spoiled by my unit because it's more acute care and 1-on-1. I'm not impressed by the floor I'm on for 12 hrs! You know, I'm about to graduate come August (HOPEFULLY!), & everyday I'm asked if I know how to make a bed or something ridiculous like that. It was just a annoying day, & I way to easily became cranky. I had to use my nursing judgment and turn the suction from Full Vacuum to Low-Medium. After doing so, the nurse I was with said it was okay for the suctioning to be on the HIGHEST! No, as a matter of fact, it is not okay. I double checked my resources & knowledge of other nurses. Then, after shift change, I have the nurse send me in a room to do all the IV settings/changes. Excuse me, I do not have a license & am not able to change any settings on my own. I hated to be such a Negative Nancy, but I was ready to throw the towel in. I did realize that it's much more difficult to change a dressing using sterile procedure on a baby much more than an adult, though.

It's 2009, & we're all different trying to test our limits. Who can stand out the most? Who can defy others? Reality is history repeats itself, so don't think you're doing anything new (for the most part!) I heard someone say the other day that "Everyone who goes to church is a hypocrite". I see where this is coming from- we all sin, we all do things we're not supposed to, & come together in this religious setting. Again, reality is that we all sin, & God is aware of this; otherwise there wouldn't be as much pain, suffering, & tests in this world in which we live in. This person went on to give an example: "She says she can do anything through Christ, but she still gets beaten by her alcoholic husband." Call me crazy, but from my perspective, this abused wife goes to church & prays. For all we know, she's praying to have the strength to leave. In no way does her getting abused & going to church make her a hypocrite. I've never been in the experience of being beaten, but I know that praying is a key. I'm not trying to be all "Our God & you should go to church." However, I do know that I would not be alive right now without a God & finding my cancer in the nick of time. My parents would not be alive from stupid attempts. My sister wouldn't be able to do all the things she does. I don't attend mass every Sunday, but I'm more spiritual than most.

What else can we be serious about?? Ahhh, I'll save it for another day. Would hate to overload you guys! Have a greaaaaaaat week!

29 Days until my 5th semester of Nursing school!!! YAYAY!

Volume II

Philadelphia, Philly, City of Brotherly Love, Home of the Cheese steak, etc. Things I loved- the houses. We have the beautiful antebellum/plantation-like homes, but most of theirs are made of stone/rock. Thinking of the city's historical past, it's just exciting to think about some of the 1st Americans living in the area, creating the foundation we have today! I am also fond of the 'ristorantes & pizzeria's'. So italiano :).

Let me introduce you to one of the greatest places ever- WaWa. Yes, WaWa. Kind of a weird name; comes from WaWa, PA. It's basically a little mini-mart (a little redundant, I know.) Some have gas, but others are just a convenient store w/ any & everything you need. They serve yummy bagels, flatbreads, hoagies, etc. They even have seafood salad in the cold section. I don't know why they haven't expanded throughout the US. Definitely would be an investment. Then again, they probably want to keep them all for themselves! Rita's -ice*custard*happiness- (slogan). They serve water ice (even more redundant.) Reminds me of shaved ice that we have down here. Soft pretzels- very good. I'm not a fan of mustard on my pretzels, so I ate them plain. I love marina/red sauce, so I loved the pizza.

We toured the city up & down. Went to Comcast- the tallest building in PA. I'm not too impressed w/ skyscrapers, but the view was awesome. You could see all these apartment complexes w/ pools & tennis courts on top. Pretty neat. However, I would be afraid that one intense gust of wind, & I'm a goner. Experienced my first train ride. The first train was an 'ole double decker w/ nice seats. The other one, not so much. Old wood vinyl or whatever that stuff is that old vans used to have in them. hah. I don't know if my anxiety would allow me to commute to & fro on a train by myself.

The Liberty Bell was a bit of a let down. I could have sworn it was a lot bigger than it is. We're at Independence Hall, and I'm looking all over. "Jackie, where's the Bell?!?" "Behind you." "That's a glass shed." "I know, it's in there." Pahhhh. What a misconception.

Listening to some jams headed to the NJ shore, we all sing along to "My prerogative"...I say "Galee, I love Prince!" "Well, that's cool, but Bobby Brown sings this." hahah.

Erin Express- one of the best experiences of my life. It was a St. Patty's celebration in which school buses took you from pub to pub at no cost! The city was drenched in green!!! (Only my favorite color!) We hop on the train to get there...it's packed!! The seats were full & the isles. Ppl were drinking cocktails, beers, & even out of pitchers! I score a seat w/ the 1 guy who's actually going to a real place. I've got a few brewskies myself in my purse. He looks at me, & assures me he won't tell. Plus, there were so many ppl on there that they weren't even taking up money. We engage in what seems to be quite the convo. I learned everything about him. For putting up w/ all of us so graciously, I give him a beer. He tries to return the favor w/ some illegal grass. I get really scared, & say, "No thanks!! I don't smoke!!" Awkward! It was a good thing to get off the train after that.

The Irish-Italian culture is significant! I LOVE IT! It's so much fun to be around ppl who grew up they way I did! In that, I mean, having the same values based on your ethnicity. That sounds weird, complicated, maybe even dumb. I can't explain it really. It just reminds me of every story I've ever heard from my dad's side (Connecticut/Chicago bred!) Every little thing reminded me of my grandparents & supplied my heart w/ a content feeling. Just like my TX trip in November. The culture there is so different, but made me feel right at home, as well. I totally embrace Irish-Mexican Catholic thing I have going on.

Don't get me wrong. I love where I come from. I appreciate Alabama w/ every little piece of my heart. You have the mountains/lakes, flat land, sand, beaches/bays. Variety. I will say it's difficult being Catholic here though. Spend half your days explaining to ppl that you do not worship statues or think that Mary is God. (Brief story: learning about dying in class, my ignorant teacher discusses religions/cultures, that she obviously knew nothing about. Says to a class of 120+, that "the child had been sprinkled Catholic". OH, this got me. I said, "WHAT did YOU just SAY? You mean Christened??" Sprinkled? You freaking sprinkle a cupcake, not a religion.)

Back to Philly. J has 3 brothers, a little different from my 3 sisters. Interesting to see the interaction. All I can say is thank goodness I didn't have brothers, I would have severe complexes. I'm too much of a scaredy cat girl. Her family was great, especially her Grandpop.

I've planned my next visit- Irish weekend on the last wknd in Sept! Yeauh!!

I also find it crazy that Rocky is all over the city, especially considering he's not real. But hey, it's the eye of the tiger...Hahha. I'm a nerd.

Have a good one! Love!