Orientation

Before I start talking about my week of orientation, I have to talk about my blog. Ha ha...I was clicking on things and I ended up following myself. Hmmm, I have no clue how I did that, but now I can follow my own thoughts. Good thing; someone needs to!

I have a job! Yeah, I've been in orientation since Monday and I'm getting tired. I think it's because I don't have to use my brain and it is a lot of boring information. Thankfully this part will end next Tuesday.

Upcoming events:
~San Antonio, TX
~2 weeks on the Burn Unit
~Anaheim, CA
~6 weeks of the critical care internship program (CCIP)

I'm pretty excited!

Graduation

I am officially Alicia Osland, RN, MSN!

Mom and Dad came from Marshfield, WI to spend a short weekend with Dan and me. They watched my graduation and we ate a lot. It was very nice! I miss them already, but I am glad they made the long trip.

I start my new job tomorrow, but it will only be orientation for a week and a half. I am excited to start and actually see a paycheck as well :)

Saturday in December

Saturday, December 5, 2009

O little town of Bethlehem
O Come, o Come Emmanuel
What child is this
in Christ alone
As the Deer
Amazing Love (You are my King)
He is Exalted
I Exalt Thee
I Stand in awe

Done and done!

I am so excited to announce that I actually finished my graduate work and on Saturday I will officially be Alicia A. Osland, RN, MSN!!!

My presentation went very well for my capstone. There were actually a lot of faculty who trickled through, so I was thrilled to talk about all my projects and my passion for nursing! I was thankful that Dan came to support me and then take me to lunch afterwards!

Today I have been quite productive with cleaning and organizing everything before my parents arrive on Friday. Unfortunately we don't have much room, but Dan did dig out the Christmas decorations, so I will decorate now that I'm in the mood!

Yay!!!

Baby Clothes

I am so excited for my brother-in-law and sister-in-law's pregnancy. They are having a girl at the end of March, so I said I would go to the Gap Warehouse here in Kentucky to look for deals. I hyped up their deals because one time they had size 0-3 jeans for a $1 a piece. That was exciting and overwhelming. I was expecting really great deals last night.

Well, Dan and I went and it was neat. All the baby clothes were $5 a piece, so I decided not to get onesies because I thought that they would be cheaper elsewhere. I did buy two nice quality, cute onesies. I deals were on diaper covers (little underpants), socks, and tights. I had fun!

The only issue at these places is that it takes time to dig through everything and you have to be very careful to not get something that is stained or torn.

After shopping, the traffic was ridiculous, so we went to a Mexican restaurant and it was awesome! I love Mexican food!!!

Done with Classes!

Yes, I cannot believe that I am completely done with classes. I presented my project last night and am completely done except for my capstone and portfolio. I will present my capstone poster and portfolio on Monday and I'm thankful that Dan will be there with me.

Everyone has been so supportive and it has meant a great deal to me. I am excited to see where my future takes me. I have several faculty persons ask me to pursue a doctorate or PhD. We will see, but I have not thrown the idea out at all.

For now, I will start my career and learn as much as I can. I will focus on being a great bedside nurse and then move up the clinical ladder to who knows what. A clinical nurse specialist and/or prof at a university!

Dan and I just keep waiting to hear about possible job opportunities. We'll soon get rejections or interviews. Where do you think we'll end up? In the middle of Iowa, LA, TX, Baltimore, or somewhere in between? What a life!

Mascara

On a much lighter note:
Yesterday, Dan and I had to run to Target for some essentials, but we always check the back of the isles for "deals" on stuff we might (or might not) need. I found mascara that was half price, but before I go on about this particular mascara, let me give a preface to this story.

Preface:
When I was in high school, I met a girl who always wore too much mascara. Her eyes were gorgeous, but she just caked on the mascara. I asked her what mascara she used and bought it, despite not liking how much she wore. It was Loreal's Voluminous. I have used this mascara since high school and have always hated other brands that I would buy on sale. I usually get compliments with Voluminous, so it has been a staple in my make-up collection. Lately, it has been so thick and clumpy, so I haven't been as happy with it. It seems to flake off in my eyes and my eyes are consequently reddened.

Continuing with my current story:
So, I'm sure everyone saw those silly commercials for Maybelline's Stiletto Lash lengthening mascara. Well, I have never liked Maybelline's mascara. It seems to be really messy and has no volume. Anyway, this mascara was half price and came with a liquid liner (something else that terrifies me). I have always smeared liquid liner, but this says it's a felt tip.

Well, I tried it for the first time this morning and found that I really like the liquid liner; I'm sold on this over the pencil. I have much more precision for a thin, straight line. The mascara is pretty good. I'm used to volume, but this is just lengthening. I think I like it. It's more sophisticated for my new job, but I may hang on to the Loreal Voluminous for a night on the town.

Advent Conspiracy

The Advent Conspiracy is an organization that makes you think about Christmas, its true meaning, and how materialistic it has become. Last years youtube video was amazing and they put out a 2009 version that you should watch as well.

The Battery Bites the Dust

Yes, I woke up this morning and after showering and getting ready, I went to check my email. I opened my laptop and put in the system password, but it didn't work. I struggled and asked Dan to help me. I didn't have any of my 4 projects backed-up (first mistake), but Dan figured out that my battery is completely dead, doesn't work, and needed to be removed from my computer for it to work. Weird, no?

Well, I didn't want to have to buy a new computer, but everything is pointing in that direction. That will be my graduation/Christmas present this year.

Run away

As my friend pointed out to me, sometimes you just have to get away from everything temporarily to get your mind set.

I have been stressed a lot with this terrible paper that I had to write. The paper wasn't terrible to write, but my professor decided arbitrarily that one isn't to use pronouns in scholarly work. After meeting with her, I found her comments to be helpful, but the paper was written and I cannot rewrite every sentence that has a pronoun in it, especially if since the paper was an interview. I use "her" and "she" a lot, but there is no technical writing rule against the use of pronouns.

I am having a fit because it's not just the trouble of not being able to rewrite the paper. I cannot concentrate because a single dad leaves his 3 sons home alone everyday and they are driving me crazy. They are not in school, they run around, bang things, scream, etc. while I am trying to work and I have to continuously tell them to shut-up (nicely). Today I about lost my mind and told the apartment manager. I went back to work and then got so fed up I grabbed my computer and decided to come down to the club house to escape one problem. I am hoping the issue will be dealt with soon.

Oh...the sun just came out. It has been in the 50s, but I needed some sun!

20 pages

Since I worked so much last week, I had a terrible time getting motivated to work this week. Dan has been sick all week and I've been trying to cook, clean, and care for him, but the outcome has been an "A" in housework and a "C-" in schoolwork.

I have this 20 page paper about leadership that I thought would be pretty easy to write. I have written most of the content and am only at 10 pages. Ugghh! I am so unmotivated to add more garbage to it to beef it up. I'd rather cut content. Oh well, the light is at the end of the tunnel.

Yeah, so I couldn't wait until this quarter was over, but now I only have 2 weeks to get everything done! The paper is due Wednesday. I have 2 projects due on the 2nd of Dec and my capstone and portfolio are due on Dec 7th. Graduation is on the 12 and I start work on the 14th!

Wow!

14 + 16 = 30

Yes, I worked 30 hours in 2 days. I was at the hospital to get some hours in for my clinical experience this quarter. I was working with my previous preceptor and helping to set up for educational events about epidural pumps. I know that pump backwards and forwards and am not considered a "Super User". I am thankful to have this knowledge, but I found out that burns usually do not use them all that often.

I had a great talk with my advisor. I guess one of my professors suggested I go into the PhD program, but my advisor wants me to do the DNP (doctorate of nursing practice) program instead. For now I'll work and make money, but it is not out of the question (not that my mother-in-law would like to hear that...she wants me to have babies). I am hoping that since I gave the college all my money that they might consider giving me a doctorate for free :) Here's to hoping!

Speaking of babies, I am so happy for Ben and Aline!!! They found out that they are having a little girl!!! How wonderful!!!

Tomorrow is my last long day...15 hours only!

Oh Dan

Dan's blog today

24

I made it to the gym today and the guy who checked me into my class asked if I was a soccer player. I said, "no, but my husband plays." He just stared and then said that he has worked at the gym so long that he can tell what someone is from their body shape. He of course said my legs look like a soccer player and then preceded to apologize...probably because I didn't have a nice look on my face. The conversation moved on and I asked him how old he thought I was and he said 24. I told him the truth of 30 and he couldn't believe it. He made up for his leg comment.

Today is a gorgeous day. 67 degrees and really sunny. After our church service tonight we are going to our first UC Football game. They are ranked 5th and are becoming one of the best teams, so this is sort of exciting. I actually have tickets to go next week too. I'll be all footballed out before I leave school!

Got the job!

This morning I was taking it easy and I got a call. It was the nurse recruiter at University Hospital here in Cincinnati and she offered me the job on the burn unit. I will be working 36hrs/wk (three 12 hour shifts) flex, which means it will be a mixture of days and nights.

I am excited to have this position. They said they were hiring another person with their master's and we will work together to make the unit focused on evidence-based practice and help people enjoy their jobs despite how tough it can get. I know a lot of the client are burn victim from meth lab explosions. It will be interesting!

Everything else is going well. I made my second GOOD pot roast yesterday in the slow cooker. A can of Coke and a packet of Lipton soup mix and 10 hrs later-->Perfection! I am getting my projects done! I am enjoying our Saturday service! I have been able to talk with wonderful friends. My bro- and sis-in-law will find out about their baby's gender on Monday. Really, I cannot complain. Oh, and I start my job after graduation, but am still able to go to San Antonio for Christmas and Anaheim for Dan's conference because my orientation and internship fall around that!

Wow, 5 weeks and my working career begins...again :)

forgot a song

New Service

So, in celebration of our 4th Saturday night service, Mike led the music with a more upbeat flair. Dan and Mike did a great job for only having 1 practice before the big day. I am excited to see them progress together and having more people come through the doors to enjoy.

I do apologize for singing too close to the camera. I was running sound that night, again...not my strong point, and I forgot that my singing would pick up on the video. The CD is better, but then again...I didn't mix it very well either.

Well, the important thing is, it was fun and it will only get better.

When I'm weak...

...He is strong. 2 Corinthians 12 and 13 discuss being weak and Christ strengthening us. When we admit we are weak or unable to accomplish ________, we lean on and trust God instead of depending on ourselves. He want this relationship with us, but we're Americans and can do it for ourselves. I wrestle with this so much, even though every time I trust in God, I have so much peace and am more proficient in getting through my days.

I am very busy now. I am behind in obtaining a lot of clinical hours because I do not have time to get my regular work done. The Saturday service has taken up a lot of time too, but I know that God has placed me here, so He will equip me to do His will. Stressing about the fact that I don't have time or energy will just deplete the strength and time that I have, so I have pressed on, knowing that Jesus will strengthen me each moment.

I am excited for the service tonight. I am hoping that news will spread beyond our church's walls. Last week's service was so good that I hope God continues to guide us. I pray that we do not go off on our own path, but that we would daily seek Him.

Life is good...challenging at times, but so good.

list

-no more working in KY
-working with my advisor on a huge project
-"taught" my first college level course (I led a 2 hour group discussion--active learning)
-seems like I don't have time for anything, but I'm still going to the gym
-I'm cold
-The new Saturday service is going really well
-have a job interview on Wednesday for the burn unit at University Hospital
-possibly going to TX for Christmas
-tired

Jehovah Jireh

Yes, the Lord God is my provider!! We have been hitting some real hard times with finances and life events that are not our fault. God provided like He always does. I have had peace through all of this, but the circumstances were still filling my mind. I thank God for His faithfulness in this time and I am thankful that I can sing His praises from the inner depths of my soul.

The talk of Saturday service gets more exciting as I think about possibilities. I cannot wait to see what God is going to do each week!

This is my last week of "calm". I have gotten ahead on one assignment, but I'm hoping to have a book review done this week so I don't have to worry about it when I'm at the hospital 3-4 days/wk. I did ask my advisor if I could work for her instead of in Kentucky. It's a long drive and they want me to get a polio titer and background check, so all this adds up to a lot of money. I have a meeting with her on Friday, so we'll see what happens.

The LITERAL storm

Ha! I wrote about the calm before the storm, not thinking that there would be a literal storm in my life. It has been raining so much that our basement apartment "flooded". It is not as bad as it sounds, but one wall is completely soaked through and extends on the carpeting for 3 feet. Mold is wanting to bust forth and harm our health.

Since it is Saturday, the management is not here, so we'll see what happens. For now it is running the dehumidifier all day (gotta love the electrical expenses), shop vac the water, and run an industrial fan on it.

Yesterday we picked up our newly fix car. That was a $500 deductible.

Dan got his first check (Thank God) and it was much less than what we were expecting.

I also have to "teach" a session on Tuesday and spent all day yesterday and today getting it prepared, so we'll see what the professor says about my work.

Things are not the best, but God is! I have my health, food, and a great husband! I am overall really happy with my situation and know that we have the victory in Christ. I have an unusual sense of peace and I know that only comes from people praying and God's overabundant joy!

Do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength. Neh 8:10

You make known to me the path of life;in your presence there is fullness of joy;at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Ps 16:11

These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:11

Through out the Bible's pages, Shouting and Singing for JOY are overflowing. I want tonight to be filled with the JOY of the Lord! We love you Lord!!!

first calm before the storm

I think I've had "calm before the storm" as a title before. I am feeling lazy today since it is raining and all I've done is read today. It didn't help that I kept dialogging on email when I should be taking advantage of the time that I have to get ahead in my work.

My preceptor is on vacation for two weeks, so that means that I'll have a month (didn't meet her until week two) of make-up work to do when she returns. Instead of 18 hrs/wk, it will be about 32. I also have two large papers and my capstone to accomplish. Thank God for quarters!

The quarter system is 10 weeks of classes, one week of finals. I do not have an exam, but I have my work cut out in writing. In two months this will all be over and I'll be who whoooing all over the place!

Until I go spinning and core concepts, I have to finish my reading so I can begin my discussion board posts tomorrow for two of my classes. I'm not sure if I explained this, but I have to continuously dialog about a certain topic, but everything that I states must be backed up by the evidence that is in articles, along with original thought as well. This gets tiring since it continues for a week until a new topic is given the following week. It feels as if it never ends, but I do appreciate the learning component...I actually am learning the material!

A week into October

Wow, a week has flown by...again! This past weekend we had two music practices for our new Saturday service that kicks off the 10th. I'm quite excited about the service, but I still have no idea what it will look like, who will be interested in coming to it, and what kind of music we'll be doing. For now we are a little more traditional contemporary than what I was picturing, but I of course, like the older contemporary music. (do I keep stating an oxymoron with the phrase "older contemporary" or "traditional contemporary"?) We will see where it goes after this Saturday.

There is a new couple who Dan and I have met through the starting of this service. They have been generous in opening up their house for Dan and I to watch the Pack vs. Vikes last Monday. Horrible (but kind of fun) game! They have a house church that I am praying and mulling over and over in my mind. I would love to be a part of something like this, but I am letting Dan make the final call. He is so stretched with teaching, applying for jobs, writing his dissertation, the new music service, etc. I hate to put anything else on his plate.

I've been still making it to the gym classes. Last night I did core pilates and looked like a fool. My name means "graceful" but it's a lie! Uggh.

I also found out this week that I'll be completing my last clinical at St. Elizabeth's hospital in northern Kentucky. I saw a person throw their fast food garbage out their car window while driving. 'Nuf said! No, it should actually be a good experience!

Well, back to work and applying for a job.

Dan's back!

After my nice morning of relaxation on Monday, I got ready for my lunch meeting with my advisor. As I walked to the shuttle, I noticed that our back fender was hit and there was a piece of plastic from the person's vehicle who hit us. I took a couple pics with my phone, but decided to leave the evidence till when I returned.

After a nice meeting with my advisor, I visited the nursing faculty and everyone was so nice and asked how I was doing. I enjoyed seeing them.

I got a call from Dan while on my way home saying he had made it to Philly. I got home and noticed that the evidence on our car had been cleaned up. I notified the police and Erin, our apartment manager. I picked Dan up and the brakes began to grind...barely any warning squeak.

Yesterday, Dan spent the day getting our brakes and tires done, but we still have to deal with our insurance company and the dent. Not fun for Dan :(

School is going well, but I will be extremely busy, so I need to take advantage of the time now and get some work done early. I am not as motivated this quarter, but hopefully that will change since it is my last quarter!

Yesterday I did yoga and felt much more flexible. I hope to go to turbo kick tonight. I need more cardio in my workout routine.

Nice weekend!

You always need a recovery after an intense workout and since my weekend was crazy, I got my exercise recovery. Saturday I visited a good friend for a couple hours before heading to a wedding. The wedding was beautiful and it was nice to see the sun pop out after this week of rain.

I wanted to work after the wedding, but my friend convinced me to go to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. It was wonderful and I am glad I went to see a great show!

Sunday was crazy. I decided to sleep in and then go to church with all my work. After the pot luck, I stayed and got some work done until our 5:30 worship practice started. It was nice having a fast internet connection since our apartment one that comes "free" with our rent is slower than the dickens.

Anyway, the music practice went well. I am so used to leading that it was hard for me to follow and actually worship. If I "pay attention" I have a hard time worshiping and that is more important to me. I suppose that is why I don't "play well with others", but I want to learn! I am really looking forward to our Saturday night contemporary service! It seems as if God is really moving and directing this thing, but none of us knows what to expect, but we are all excited!

Today I have to get back to working out, though I'd rather just do my school work. I have a meeting with my advisor at 12:30 and then active yoga is at 5:30.

I am so excited that Dan is coming home today. We are almost completely attached at the hip and I hate being away from him. It is extremely windy in Cinci today, so I hope his flight to Pennsylvania goes well and that his trip here is smooth too. It will be great day!

The scripture that is continuously going through my head is 2 Chronicles 20. I love this chapter! Judah is surrounded by enemies and King Jehoshaphat prays to God and God answers and says, the battle is not yours, but mine...you will not need to fight. The people praised and worshiped God. They went out to the battle field and the King sent out singers before the army and they sang "Give thanks to the Lord; His faithful love endures forever!" and the enemies turned against themselves and killed one another. I want to praise and worship God, knowing that I don't have to fight the battle, but that it belongs to God!

Spinning and Core Concepts

It has been raining for 3 days straight. No matter if I'm inside, I seem to have less motivation when it rains. I did complete an assignment yesterday and organized 13 songs for our first music practice on Sunday. I also made it to two classes at the gym.

I walked to the gym in the late afternoon and had soaked gym shoes. I did the spinning class and enjoyed it a lot. After that, I did the core concepts class and about died when we had to place this small ball under our back and do crunches. I had tears in my eyes...it was so painful. Today I am feeling it!

At 5, I have a graduate student mixer and plan to get some free appetizers and see some friends. I wish Dan was with me, but I know of some friends who are attending. Since I'm going to campus for this, I will not do a workout program today. I figure my body needs a small break, no? Yoga is tempting, but I'd have to leave now and I just immersed myself into a project that is due today. Also, since I have a wedding tomorrow, I will not get much work done then, so I have to work pretty hard now...so...bye!

First time doing Yoga

Today I completed my first yoga class on campus. I bought a group fitness pass, so I can experiment throughout the quarter and choose classes that are interesting and help me get back into shape.

The yoga class was pretty good. My hamstrings were so tight that they shook a lot when they were stretched. The instructor started out demonstrating moves and then she just said the moves, but didn't show them and I was a bit lost. Thankfully, most of the people in the class knew what they were doing so I watched them. I felt so tall and relaxed after the class which helped me a lot with my day.

I had a lot of reading to do before my class this evening. I have one more project to write up for the summer and then have a project due on Monday as well. We are also starting up a new contemporary service at church, so I will be involved in getting that started. I have a lot on my plate, but I'm excited to get into a routine soon. I think the workouts will help me a lot too!

Tucson, AZ

For some reason, I always want to spell Tucson as Tuscon. I don't know why, but I like my way better.

Anyway, I did have a great trip to Arizona to see my mom's side of the family and watch my uncle get married. What a beautiful desert wedding. It was at sundown and the sunset was gorgeous! Everything was perfect except the DJ played modern hits and the old fogies didn't want to dance. My mom and I rode with another couple, so we had to leave early (10:30) before we could boogie down on the dance floor. The next day we heard that they played the old stuff later in the night as people were leaving...wha whaaa.

First I should backup. I got there on Thursday and met my mom at the airport. We went to my uncle's house and had a GREAT dinner that night with Nicole's family and my family. We stayed at the Hilton which was very nice!

The next morning I enjoyed a southwest breakfast buffet and boy was it great!!! I wish I could eat like that every morning. We went to the botanical gardens and shopping. I got to enjoy spending time with my family without the stress of school or work.

I made it back to Cinci an hour later than I had hoped, but thankfully I got out of Atlanta before it was completely flooded.

Yesterday I took Dan to the airport and he emailed me and he is in Mérida. He's there for a conference and will come back on Monday. I sure wish I could be with him and visit our friends but I start school tomorrow. Speaking of, I have homework already and classes haven't even begun. Off to work!

Ohhhh, I bought a gym pass for the fitness classes. I went to turbo kick last night and wow, it kicked me. I'm so excited to do cardio classes, pilates, yoga, and anything else everyday!!!

DC

Wow, so much is happening that I can barely keep up with blogging. I finished working at the hospital on Sept 2nd and had classes all day that day. I was happy to have finished by passing an ECG exam.

The following day we flew to Baltimore and took the train down to DC to stay with Ben and Aline. We had such an enjoyable time touring the city and spending time with them. We saw the state capital, the white house, the washington monument, lincoln memorial, air and space museum, natural history museum, supreme court, national archives, and washington's mansion: Mt. Vernon. It was fantastic! The weather was beautiful and we dodged the rain twice. Ben and Aline also took us to Annapolis, Alexandria, and Georgetown. I liked all of DC and the surrounding areas!!


Tomorrow we're off to Chicago to visit friends and see the U2 concert. I'm excited to see Grant, Lynsi, Leah and Teirney!! There is nothing better than seeing old friends and seeing a great show on top of that in a great city!

Birthday Week

Yes, I have been celebrating my b-day month, but the b-day week proper went well. My friend of 21 year, Lynsi, drove to Cincinnati to spend the weekend with us. Friday night we headed to Mt. Adams for pub food at Mt. Adams Bar and Grill and headed next door to the Blind Lemon for a relaxing bottle of wine and live music. It was a perfect night for going out and I was pleased with the warm evening temperatures.


Saturday was the "big" celebration at the pool. Lynsi was born in 1980, so she was celebrating 29 years while I celebrated 30. Many friends came to send me birthday wishes, eat grilled food, and jump in the pool. It was HOT and perfect for a pool party. I was pleased with the celebration.

That evening we had Skyline Chili (Cincinnati Chili--it's a must if you visit) and went downtown to Fountain Square. We stopped at the Cadillac Ranch and listened to my kind of music, though there was no dancing. After that, we hit up a hookah bar and then came home for some karaoke. Noel's karaoke is the biggest hit ever, though Lynsi will not sing.


We slept in Sunday morning and then went to Alt Park and had ribs for lunch at the BBQ Review. YUM!!! We then went to Union Terminal, got a tour of it and then went into the Cincinnati History Museum. We had a great time, but we were so hot and tired, we had to hit up Graeter's Ice Cream. YUM!!! That night was finished off by a competitive game of Monopoly that we couldn't finish because Lynsi needed to get up early and drive home the next day.

What a weekend! Hopefully more blogging to come

the mad elliptical

So I just found out from Dan that he scored a "very poor" the other day on the elliptical. Thank goodness it's not me. I had my mind to beat it and get the best, but Dan said it must be broken. It is also quite annoying because you cannot stop or you lose all your data. I just wanted to turn the other way and it completely shut off. Oh the tricks of the trade. I'm just proud that I'm back in the gym, no matter how ghetto it is. But, who am I to ask for anything better?

We had a great weekend. Last night we sang karaoke until 3am. I suppose since this was my first time leading worship in church in over a year, I should have not sung at the top of my lungs till 3am, but it went well this morning. Church people are really more nice than honest though ;) Anyway, I am way too old to be staying up past 1am, but my friend's karaoke mic is too much fun! It just plugs into the TV and there are 2000 songs to choose from.

Today it was 95 and high high humidity. We decided to go out to our pool (the apartment has one) and we enjoyed it immensely. It was the perfect ending to a long, hard work week. Did I mention that I don't get paid for my work? I just have to continue to remind people of that and gather a bit of sympathy.

Well, pizza rolls sound like a healthy option since I started to work out again! Why do I let Dan buy these things, especially when I'm working on a cardiac floor?

work out

Our new apartment complex has a small workout area. I tried it for the first time today because it is much closer than UC's rec center. I decided to take it easy and try the fitness test on the elliptical. At a level one, I scored a "very poor". I laughed and wondered how I did that. The only thing I can really think of is that my heart rate was above 160 the entire time...177 at the highest. I don't know what's wrong with my little heart, but it doesn't like to exercise. I'm hoping with a little conditioning (or a lot), I can keep at some sort of lower target heart rate. I can say it was a good work out despite getting poor reviews from the equipment :)

Dan was in his suit while working out, so he jumped into the pool afterwards. It is cold, but refreshing on warms Cincinnati days.

I turned in my final project for my class. It feels great to have that done. Now I have this new practicum and fall will be here before you know it.

Dan started off my birthday month with dark chocolate covered espresso beans and bruschetta sauce. I am spoiled...though he will enjoy it too!

last day

Well, it is suppose to be my last day of class, but my prof gave the students till Monday to turn in our final project. I have to get motivated today to get this project done. She also is letting me revise some of my other work (writing test questions) for a higher grade. This just adds more work to my crazy schedule, but I'm thankful it will be done soon.

Yesterday my advisor came to meeting me my preceptor and me. It was a positive meeting. She informed me that I had to change preceptors after my 180 hours. I was shocked. I had no clue. Karen said she'd miss me. I counted my hours and Monday is my last day with her and then I'll start with a new preceptor on CVICU. I just got comfortable on the burn unit, but I am excited to see a new area.

and then time hit me again

Time struck me again last night. I am not at all afraid or sad to turn 30 next month, but I am getting very anxious to get settled. We just moved into a new apartment and there is a part of me that cannot wait until I move and actually live in a place where we'll both have jobs and a home that we can settle into...even if it is for one or two years. I have promised myself multiple times in the past to not waste a moment of time. I have missed many opportunities because I looked at my situation as temporary. I must take advantage of this year...possibly our last in Cincinnati.

I look back and often laugh at how "old" my mom was when she had me. I'm from rural Wisconsin, so her having me when she was 28 made her 10 years older than all of my friends' moms. Her birthday is today and I am proud that I got a card sent out in time! When I was 25 or 26, it hit me that I may be 28 when I have kids, and then I turned 28; that was the hardest birthday that I ever had to celebrate. 30 is not bad, but I am now wondering when or if we'll ever have kids.

I was brought to tears last night as I pondered our possible futures. Everyone keeps telling me how smart and great I am for getting my schooling out of the way before having kids, but it is a struggle for me since I am not obsessed about my career. Don't get me wrong, I cannot wait to work as a nurse and actually work in a hospital with my own patients, but having children has to be much more amazing. I hope I do not have to wait too long...

One more day

Dan comes home tomorrow night! I know it hasn't been that long, but I do miss him. I was at work all day yesterday, so it was much easier to be away. Today I have been trying to get my final project done, but other things keep coming up. I feel very distracted and I'm procrastinating a lot.

I decided to meet my friend for coffee tomorrow, so hopefully the caffeine gives me an edge on my day tomorrow so I can get my work done. I feel so lazy when I have an entire day in which nothing gets accomplished. Thankfully, all the other work for my class is done and now I can concentrate on the final project.

Thursday I have a meeting with my advisor and preceptor. It will be good for us to all meet together, but I am nervous about what will be said. I'm sure it will be fine, but we'll see.

Dan's off

This morning we woke up early after staying up with friends till 5am singing karaoke. I cannot remember the last time I stayed up so late. Dan spent the morning relaxing and I tried to get some work done so I wouldn't have to think about him leaving for the next 4 days.

I took him to the airport because he is going to northern MN for a family reunion that I was unable to have time to attend. I am so glad that he could go, but we are so attached at the hip, it's hard to say good-bye, even if it is only a few days. Thankfully I have one more week of this class, so between that, work, and a meeting with my advisor and preceptor, Dan will be here before I can catch a breath.

In an hour I'll be going to church to tickle the keys for a bit. I haven't touched a piano or keyboard in over a year, so I'm very excited that I have the chance. Dan and I are hoping to get back into leading worship, but for now with our schedules it is not coming to pass.

As for our new apt, things are going really well. We have everything here, but I still have a lot of stuff that needs a specific place. I'm just thankful that everything fits. We were spoiled when we had a roommate because we had so much room for our stuff. Now that we're back in a one bedroom and still have all that wedding china, it is a bit more difficult. Thankfully, Dan was good at playing tetris, so we have skillfully placed boxes in our one big storage closet.

Well, I guess I am off to wash some dishes before heading out of the house.

1 month

It's been a month since I posted and I haven't had anytime since to write. I still do not, but we are moved into our new place and I hope to have time in this up coming week to write. I hope to have photos of our new (small) place when things are put into their proper places. As for now, I'm tripping over boxes and moving things from one corner to the other.

We got a new vacuum cleaner, the Eureka Surfacemax 300! Wow! It is great!

Well, now I have to "attend" my online class and get 3 projects done by Friday. Uggh.

Things are going well though. I'll enjoy a little break hopefully in September.

settled?

Wow, it has been awhile since I've written, but a lot has happened. We finished packing and said all our goodbyes. Dan's parents picked us up in the afternoon of the 11th. We ate at McDonald's and enjoyed the last blast of heat from Spain.

Portugal was anything but relaxing. It was graduation weekend, so we were helping to wash, clean, prep, etc. for the grand event. I can say it wasn't much fun, but it's nice to know that we could help. We did get to see Cirque Du Soleil! It was awesome. I didn't know there were multiple different shows, but we saw Verakai.

We had a quick, but sad goodbye with Dan's parents. Thankfully they dropped us off at the airport instead of a long goodbye.

Oh the airport. Our flight was changed right after we got to Spain in September. Because of the change, they had to reissue us new tickets. We were early, but it took them an hour to find the right codes to issue us tickets. All our bags were over 50 lbs., but they only had us pay for one overage. We had to be scooted through security and ran to catch the flight. I couldn't believe we made it.

In London, we ate at a pub and it was great food! The long haul flight was okay. I had a difficult time sleeping, but it was nice to have an empty seat by me. Chicago was a long layover (especially after 4 hrs in London, 5 hrs in Chicago sucked). We made it to Minneapolis at midnight at caught a cab to a hotel where my mom and dad were (I didn't want them driving to the airport). They enjoyed the pool and we all slept well.

Dan and I were up early to have breakfast with Grandma Osland. Yum, American breakfast is hard to beat! She was doing well, but it was a quick visit. Lynsi then came to our hotel for a quick visit. It was so great to see her. I missed all my other Twin City friends, but we only had 10 hrs there and 6 were sleeping.

Marshfield was great! I was able to relax a bit and get a little organized. We got phones (prepay this time) and I got to see my brothers and their families. We left on Friday and hit major traffic in Chicago due to thunderstorms and flooding. It wasn't too bad, but we sat forever in Indiana because they have traffic go to one lane. I suppose it was silly for us to leave on Father's Day weekend on a Friday!

Cincinnati was hot!! Yeah, high 80s, high humidity, not fun! I have been slowly settling in. I was able to visit Target and found a place with cheap scrubs. Now I'm waiting for paperwork to go through so I can start working 60+ hrs/week.

I think I am caught up now. Besides seeing everyone here and trying to catch up, I'm just preparing for a busy summer. I have to make up an assessment lab too, and I'm nervous since I haven't touched a patient in over a year. I know it will all work out, but I'm still nervous.

Dragging on

How funny. I've been so surprised how quickly time has flown by and now it is time for us to leave. Well, I have said all my goodbyes and took one final this morning and have more tomorrow morning and time is not going fast enough. It feels as if it is dragging. I know we'll be in Portugal for a few days and I look forward to that time and time with my family, but it will be good to "settle" a bit into Cinci and start my practica.

Everything seems to be settling into place already. I have a lot of hospital hours to complete this summer, so I'm hoping for an over-achieving preceptor who will work 50 hrs/week so I can get my 360 hours completed!

Well...back to "studying" the material that I've been studying for the past 4 days.

Done with goodbyes...

Well, I'm am done with goodbyes for a week. Last night at church we were able to thank the church for being our family here and express our sadness for leaving. People crowded around us after the service to hug and cry and say goodbye. It was so touching.

I was given some presents that they sell at the market. I got a cute Betty Boop shirt that I don't know if I could ever wear, but it was so thoughtful. I hope it will not be too long before we'll see them again. Well, Dan does come back in Sept (I'm jealous), but I'm happy for him.

I now have two finals Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. The rest of Wednesday will be packing and cleaning. I hope to eat a bit more regional food and then we're off to Portugal on Thursday.

Our last goodbye in Portugal is not one that I look forward to. Dan's parents are moving to Angola, so we do not know when we'll see them next, so it will be hard to leave.

I am happy about seeing my family and friends again. Thank you for all who have stayed in touch and kept supporting me while I've been so far away. I miss you all dearly and look forward to spending as much time as possible together.

More goodbyes

Yesterday we went to a pub to say goodbye to some archaeologists who have been good friends. We spent a long time there, but it was a good visit and a nice good-bye. Tonight and tomorrow we have our last services at church. So far our goodbyes have been pleasant (for goodbyes), but I may cry tonight or tomorrow.

I am looking forward to getting the finals done, visiting my in-laws in Portugal, and then seeing my family. I also look forward to getting into the hospital and applying all my knowledge. Nobody likes change, but it can be a good thing too.

Desayuno

Breakfast is a very cultural experience in Spain. Everyone takes a break from their job to get a coffee and munchie. I never go out, but we were talking with our friend and he likes the same breakfast as me. I decided to meet him for breakfast this morning, thinking it would be with all his co-workers. It was just us and everyone in the city passed by and he told them I was the wife of Dan. It was awkward, but ok. I did enjoy my Catalana (toast with tomato paste, jamon, and olive oil) and cafe con leche!

Then I went home and a man in our neighborhood asked if I wanted to get a drink with him. I decided a coke would be nice. This man speaks slowly and is paralyzed on his right side due to a severe stroke. I could understand him well and I practiced my Spanish and I think we both did a good job. I asked him his name and then he decided he wanted to give me kisses. He tried to kiss me on the lips and I had to pull away. Then he started to wink at me and ask me if I understood. I said no and then said I was married and he gave me the "shhh" sign. He continued to wink and I told him that I love my husband and that I didn't like his wink and left.

Uggghhh...two awkward moments. I don't like anything that makes my marriage look bad. I don't enjoy being seen with a man my age, especially in a small town where everyone talks. I also don't like old men hitting on me. I definitely prefer being with Dan. Oh well.

I am studying for finals now. Two left and one group project!

Marah

Happy Engagement Marah and Matt!!! I'm so happy for you both!

the rest of the weekend

The fruit tree visit was the start to a wonderful weekend. Sunday we created a taco bar for our long time friends. I made guacamole, salsa, chicken, beef, and chorizo tacos, and Corona (called Coronita here) to drink. It was so good, but it was 95 degrees, so we could barely eat. Thankfully Dan and I bought limón sorbet for dessert which we all ate up.

That evening we met an English archaeologist who has studied Mérida since 1980 and is a university professor in Toronto. We enjoyed a drink on our lovely Plaza de España and then headed to dinner. We enjoyed a great smoked salmon salad, plate of cheeses, and a type of shark in adobo...amazing! I was so full after a full day of eating, but it was so enjoyable.

Last night I finished my work early and Dan and I watched "He's just not that into you", which I thought was kind of cute.

Today I turned in all my projects except the group one that is due next Tuesday. I have 2 exams next week as well, so now I will start studying, though I feel okay about them. I take my last final on June 10th at night or in the morning on June 11th. Dan's Dad is picking us up at noon on the 11th and taking us to Portugal so we'll get to spend some time with them before heading back to the States on the 15th.

Wow! I cannot believe time is flying! At least I got to experience my 100 degree Mérida before leaving!

Fruit Trees

For Spring Break '09, I wrote about our trip around Spain. It started out taking a train from Mérida to Madrid. We sat next to an elderly man who Dan began to talk with. The man lives about 30 mins from Mérida and is a retired fruit farmer. He was on his way to Madrid as well and then Egypt for vacation. He travels everywhere! He invited us to call him sometime and visit.

Dan called last week and we visited today. It cost 5.60 to take the train and Emilio met us at the train station after our 20 min ride to Montijo. He showed us many of his farms that his sons now run and we ate peaches, nectarines, and pears off the trees. He took us to his hacienda that is now not lived in, but it is full of his hunting trophies, photos, and has a huge swimming pool in the back. He had a cold bowl of cherries that we munched on until we were sick. He showed us some of his bronze age axes and Roman cooking ware that were found on the property. We found that he had not lived there since his wife passed away in 2005.

Emilio also took us to his fruit warehouse and showed us how they store, package, and ship the fruit. Then he took us into town to show us around the big church and have a beer with great fried potato chips. Yum! He decided to give us a ride back to Mérida to top off his kindness. I am so thankful for this little day trip. He is too kind and I don't know if I'll ever see him again. I sure hope so!

To end that trip, we had him drop us off at CarreFour (our big grocery store) and we carried groceries home for a mile in the 95 degree sun. Uff dah! The Mérida summers are back!

Week 9 of 10

Yes, I am already on week 9. For those of you who did not know, Cincinnati insists on staying on the quarter system, so we only have 10 weeks of school and a week of finals. My last final is on June 11, and we will go to Portugal then and fly back to the States on June 15th.

As for now, things have been going well (Thank you God!). I have seemed to have gotten a great start on my projects and only have a few odds and ends that must be done. Unfortunately, all those odds and ends will pile up because professors tend to post things late. No worries though!

We only have two more weekend services at church. We will be sad to say good-bye. Our really good friend just got a promotion, so I don't think we'll be able to see him before we go. There are lots of good-byes to say because I do not know when I'll return. Dan is at least coming back in September for a conference!

Well, I'm off to start my day!

No more stinky breath

After than foot-in-mouth experience, I was much more cautious about my conversations. The next day we spent with a couple of Italians and our new Spanish friend. Dan was the tour guide of our city and it was very enjoyable, though beastly hot. That night we went to the Parador for cocktail hour and I ate so much jamon...yum. They also had bite-sized cream puffs that reminded me of the the Wisconsin State fair in Milwaukee. Yummy!

After the cocktail hour, we went out with Germans, Romanians, the previously mentioned Italians and our Spanish friend. They were all speaking 5 languages, switching back and forth and I was amazed. They all knew each other's language and others. I was amazed and thought that we should raise our kids in Germany or Romania. I'll start looking for jobs for Dan :)

Open Mouth, Insert Foot

I don't know why I insist on sticking my foot in my mouth at every social gathering in which I attend.

There is a large archaeological conference in town. German, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish archaeologist are here and last night there was a 10pm cocktail hour at the theater. Dan said I could go and everyone spoke English so it was comforting. Most of the people are very intelligent, but lack social skills. I was so excited to be able to talk to people that I talked a lot. Many of them had never been to the theater before so Dan and I told them about the musical that we had seen a few years ago.

It was about Homer's Odyssey, but it took place in World War II and it was about gypsies trying to get back to their home. It was cleverly done and though I did not understand the words, the music and actions were beautiful and I sobbed throughout the beautiful performance. For some reason I was so caught up in telling a German woman about the performance and she was feeding me with fascination and goose-bumps. I then said, "and it was so intense with the gypsies trying to get out of the concentration camps and the Germans coming after them...err...eeek..." stumble stumble over my words...feel humiliated and stupid....wonder if I should apologize, keep talking about the musical....5 minutes later...new topic!

Yeah, not cool. Dan said it wasn't a big deal at all; that Germans look at it like we look at our Civil War. I don't know.

The rest of the night I was much more calm and I did not get emotionally involved in a topic, but the conversation was very broken and uneasy (all the nerds trying to speak to one another) ;) I was thankful for the opportunity to speak again to people in English and not my broken Spanish, and enjoy the great weather in a great setting!

Priorities

The theme of my life these past few weeks have been priorities. Where did I get the theme? Well, I listen to podcasts from Christians (Mars Hills Church and Joyce Meyers) and Dan interprets the sermons at our church here. I do not have a Christian support person or group that I can share with about all the exciting things the Lord is doing in my life and the struggles that I face.

Growing up as an only child, I was made to feel extremely special and important. I spent a good majority of my life trying to prove that to other people. I was sort of smart, got good grades, faked knowing everything pretty well, smiled a lot, was a hard worker, and was an okay friend (when I wanted to be). The American dream was to work hard and prove how strong and capable you are...and then make money and have nice things.

Priorities...
Thankfully I married someone a lot like me. It's not that I don't want to dress nice, get my hair done, have nice things, it's just that I do not have the money nor the know-how to do such things. Dan actually made a comment that I do not have to buy whatever is on sale, no matter how great a deal, because those clothes do not necessarily look good on me. Whooa! ha ha. Now, that is where I'm drawing the line. I want my husband to think I look good.

Back to other priorities. Joyce Meyers was talking about fitting your schedule into Jesus, not trying to fit Jesus into your schedule. This has been a huge thing for me. Very difficult when I spend my whole day sitting in front of my computer and books...working on school. God has given me strength to accomplish all my work and have time to go to church and read the scripture and pray. I believe with all my heart that I'm suppose to be in school, it's a blessing, and that He has equipped me and continues to do so for this time.

Back to Joyce Meyers and clothes: she is really into the prosperity message. I believe that God blesses people so that His glory shows, not just so we can have great things. He's not my magic lamp that I rub and ask for anything I want. I do believe that He gives me more and better things than I could ever imagine (Dan, a nursing degree, living in Spain, the Master's education, family, friends, etc.). Joyce stated today that she was a garage sale shopper and that God provided for her family through miracles. She then said she was so thankful for the day that she was "delivered from garage sale-ing". She said that as a child of God, she didn't have to live that way (not that she was putting it down). I was appalled and saddened. I believe that God can provide riches, but who is she to say such things? I think I'll be a life long garage saler. I don't see myself ever having a lot of money, but then maybe my faith is too weak. I am sorry for those in her audience who put themselves down because they do shop at garage sales and feel as if they are not being blessed by God.

Well, this posting was not to be a put down blog. The last thing I want to do is criticize another Christian (there are enough people that do that), but I do want my priorities to stay clearly focused on God. It's hard for me to read Christians' postings on facebook (I "LOVE" my new....(possession)). I like things...but when I do have a job, I pray that I am not in love with my new things!

Last Note:
I was excited when I was studying about God giving manna to the Israelites in the desert. I knew that he was providing for me and I trusted Him and had more peace and seemed to get my work done sooner. A few months later I was reading John 6:
32Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."

34"Sir," they said, "from now on give us this bread."

35Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. 36But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe. 37All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. 38For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. 39And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. 40For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day."

41At this the Jews began to grumble about him because he said, "I am the bread that came down from heaven." 42They said, "Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, 'I came down from heaven'?"

43"Stop grumbling among yourselves," Jesus answered. 44"No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. 45It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God.'[d] Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me. 46No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the Father. 47I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life. 48I am the bread of life. 49Your forefathers ate the manna in the desert, yet they died. 50But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which a man may eat and not die. 51I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world."

52Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?"

53Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. 56Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. 57Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. 58This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live forever."

Wow, there is more than just manna. There are blessings (salvation!) beyond what He equips us for! I cannot wait to see all that He has for me in this last month in Spain. I look forward to what He has for me in Cincinnati. The future is very unclear as to where I'll be after December, but I put my trust in Christ.

Points back

Because you are all so interested in my grades, I am happy to inform you that everyone in my class did poorly on that exam and I got some points back. I still do not know my final grade, but I will pass the class non-the-less.

Dan's parents are visiting today. This will be their last visit and then we'll see them in June when we leave from Lisbon. They are moving to Angola and we do not know when we'll see them again. Those are always hard good-byes.

Life has been good. The weather has been hot (high 80s) and beautiful, the roses are still blooming so much the plants are falling over, and I'm getting my work done. I have a few projects coming up, so I can't take sitting back to lightly anymore (not that I was). I'll enjoy the weekend with my in-laws and then it will be crunch time!

As for this summer, I am doing two clinicals instead of the normal one. My advisor gave me permission so I could graduate in June. I'll have to work three 12 hour shifts a week, plus I have a 3 week class that is Mon, Wed, Fri from 9am-1pm. I have no clue how I'm going to do that! Possibly I'll be able to move some hours to fall quarter.

Well, off to drink my mate, work a bit, and then clean the house.

That's a joke, right?

So after my parents left, we had to come to Spain so I could take an exam for my critical care class. I did less than desirable with a 74% (though I need an 80% in the class to pass). I was not worried because I blamed it on the fact that I didn't study much because I enjoyed time with my parents.

Today I had a midterm in my CNS role integration class. I studied for it and felt pretty good about the content. I took the exam, and like the other, got a 74%. I was shocked. I couldn't believe it, especially because I didn't know the answer to 4 questions (obviously I didn't for 13).

This is a bummer! I have never even come CLOSE to not passing. I rarely ever got a C on an exam, let alone 2 within a week of each other. I have to get a B in the class to pass (yay for grad school), but I should be okay, right? For now I won't worry about it, but I have to get my head out of the clouds or something.

health policy

I have to say that I have had a very productive weekend. I am not a procrastinator, but if I'm overwhelmed with something, I do tend to put it off. Because of my parents' visit, I had some work that piled up and I got it all done except my health policy paper. I wrote most of it yesterday and have to finish the draft today to add to it. It is suppose to be 8 pages (not bad, right?), but I only have around 4-5.

I barely have any VALUABLE resources for this paper and it is so boring and uninteresting that it is hard to make it good. I am very interested in the shortage of nursing faculty, but the political details behind it are not so interesting to me. We are suppose to guess when it will be voted on in the house and senate (and committee), but how am I to even make an educated guess on that? Yes, my paper sucks...but I will pass the class, no?

Good news: I cannot stress enough that I caught up on all my other work! Thank you God! It is in the 80s, so our apt is warming up a tad. I still wear sweaters and my jacket. Dan's parents are going to visit next week. We'll see them then and in June and then who knows when...maybe in Angola.

Recap

I only have a few minutes to write because I am of course behind in my school work from my parents' visit.

Dan and I picked up the car on April 18th and drove to Portugal. My parents were to leave on Sunday the 19th, but got sent home due to weather in Chicago. I will not complain, but I am very unhappy with United Airlines for not rerouting my parents. They came back to Wausau airport on Monday they 20 and got to O'Hare in Chicago. There flight was delayed for 6 hours upon their already 6 hour lay over. They made it to Newark, but missed their Portugal flight. They had to pay for their own hotel...annoying.

They arrived on the 22nd, two days late, but after that...everything went well!

We enjoyed breakfast in Portugal, took our time getting to Spain...seeing a castle and drinking more coffee. My parents were so tired! We got to Spain and showed them a couple sites. They slept till 1 the next morning.

We saw Merida in 2 days and headed back to Lisbon on Friday night for some good Portuguese food! We enjoyed the beach (though it was freezing), saw all of Lisbon and Belem, ate lots of seafood and fish, and enjoyed our time together.

My parents left on the 29th and it overlapped with Dan's parents arriving from the States, so we all had coffee together. We spent the day with Dan's parents and then took them to the airport at 6 am yesterday so they could catch a flight to a conference. We were so tired that we came back and slept, drank our last Portuguese coffee, then headed to Spain.

Dan showed me the warehouse that he works in, but I had to get back for an exam. I took the exam and finished another assignment and we headed to eat Mexican food. It was actually good! I cannot wait to eat Chipotle or El Mezcal when we get back!!!

I now have 3 papers, a discussion board, and a midterm all due by Wed or Thur this week, so I will stop writing now.

Getting ready

I am getting ready for my parents' visit! I'm very excited to see them and keep praying that I'll be able to balance the work and visiting time well. School is pressing as always, but this is beyond me and I'm learning more and more than most things are. Faith plays a large role in this area.

When the Israelites were in the desert for 40 years, God provided manna for them. The manna was sustaining and just what they needed. My eyes have been opened to God's provision. He has provided me with the strength, knowledge, books, times, professors, etc. for my daily survival during school. 2 Timothy 3:17 "the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work."

I believe that God has me in school; it is my purpose for now. It is a huge blessing to be finishing this master's now! I'm excited to see what I'll be doing in the future with my dual degree. There are so many exciting options for me to pursue!

Well, back to the main point. I must do my part and stay diligent. My parents will be here from April 19-29, so I could use your prayers! Back to studying!

snakes and roses

I can take Guns 'n' Roses, or more so just the roses. Mérida is full of roses right now and they are so beautiful! Dan and I took a nice Easter walk in the sun and enjoyed the roses. He wanted to cut one for me, but I said no...that I didn't think it was allowed.

We were admiring the roman bridge (as always) and saw a big black snake. Ick. I'm crawling as I write this. I just have a phobia (a very unrealistic fear) of snakes. I tried to look up snakes on the internet to see if it was poisonous and got really creeped out looking at the photos. I don't know why my phobia is getting worse. Someday I'm going to have to face my fear and hold a snake or something.

It doesn't really feel like Easter today, but I have taken it a bit easy. My parents will be here in one week!! I'm very excited!

U2 Tickets

I forgot to mention our experience buying U2 tickets. We had two other couples who were interested in joining us for a U2 concert Sept 13 in Chicago. There were a few requests about seating, but Dan and I found out quickly that we were not given many options for being picky.

We both had windows open on our computers and there was a wait every time we searched for tickets. Dan's first option with "best seat available" were in the very top section toward the back. We both didn't like that since we wanted general admission if anything. We searched again and are way in the back on the 4th level, section 429. It is far away, but the tickets were $30 (plus $12 for service fees), so we are happy to be going at that price.

Spring Quarter

I know you are expecting me to complain about how busy I am and how stressed I feel. Nope, that's not going to happen today. We came back from vacation and I had to start immediately. I organized all my classes and dove into my reading and work.

We had another Fulbrighter from Madrid wanting to visit, but I told him that I just started the quarter and would not be able to do much for him or have much time to visit. I felt badly, but the quarter had just started. He arrived Friday afternoon and by Saturday afternoon I had all my work done, so Dan and I enjoyed our visit by site seeing and eating with our visitor until he left Monday morning.

The work is not as overwhelming as the past two quarters. I do have a policy class with a paper that is due the week after my parents leave and I have no clue how to write it. I am not politically savvy, so I am a bit nervous about that work.

My parents are coming! Yes, they are visiting on April 19-29th! We will pick them up in Lisbon, spend a few days there, visit Mérida for a few days, and then go back to Lisbon and say our good-byes. I am so excited for them to visit, but am praying that my nose won't be in books the entire time! I'm really hoping to finish my work quickly so we can enjoy some sites, the food, and the culture! I think they will love it!

Praise Report:
I have been praying to not seek praise from men, but to please God. However, I found much favor with my advisor and she told everyone in one of my classes about me and my husband and why I'm a new grad in a master's program. She raved about how smart I am and how great of a student I am and that my work should be used as a template for their work. I was flattered and encouraged. I kept thanking God for all his mercy to have gotten this far.

This was all written on a discussion board and other students (nurses with 15+ years of experience) all wrote in with the most encouraging comments. One even said that she hoped to write as eloquently as I did someday. I laughed and cried since writing is the hardest thing for me to do. I told her that and said that I have improved, but I definitely struggle with each paper. Pretty nice, no?

Oh Vacation!

Yes, I love vacation! I suppose my whole married life has been a non-stop vacation from life, but I still like to go site-seeing and not have any school or work to do. We started with a train trip to Madrid to meet our good friend from Cinci. We stayed with his aunt, uncle and cousin and enjoyed great food, wine, and company! We spent a Friday night looking for clubs and only a few were interesting.

The next day we flew to Barcelona. Our WI friend from Fulbright lent us his flat and we enjoyed the city, the art, but not las ramblas. I do not think I have ever seen as many prostitutes in my life...aggressive ones at that. Dan held on to me for dear life. Not fun! The Gaudi work was amazing and so were a few tapas joints, but overall it was not my favorite city.

Tuesday we flew to Granada! What a city! I loved it! Besides the Alhambra being amazing and getting so tired from walking, the city was too quaint and I must go back!

Thursday we were off to Cordoba. We saw a great Flamanco show that night, but our worship leader still beats any singer hands down. There was a male and female dancer which was really cool to see. I hope to post videos! Our friend got sick, so we had to go to the mosque and other places without him. Poor guy!

Saturday it was raining, so we drove to Sevilla to have breakfast and so the guys could see the cathedral from the outside, then drove to Cadiz. It was cold. We still enjoyed sitting in the sand and enjoyed the sun, but brrrr. I ate great swordfish! Our company left on Sunday and Dan and I had the next day alone together, but our hostel owner was a pain, so we had to lug our bags around for the day. We still ate some great crab salad, adobo, and lots of ice cream!

Finishing Strong

Praise God! First of all I thought I was going to quit grad school because of this quarter, but God gave me the strength to not only finish, but to finish strong! I got A's on my two finals!!! I am so happy!

Now I have to get the house in order. It will be good to give a thorough scrub down to a neglected living space.

Tonight Dan and I are going out to eat at a "Mexican" restaurant because I'm craving Mexican food so badly, but my friend said that it doesn't taste like Mexican at all, so I'm not getting my hopes up to high. It will be so nice to relax and enjoy!

We're off the Madrid on Saturday and then Barcelona on Sunday! I'm very excited for our trip!

A

Yes, I got an A on my pharm final! Thank goodness! Now I have a patho final that is up in 6 minutes and have until tomorrow at 5pm, but I only have 100 min for 75 questions. I'm quite nervous about this, but have to stick to my studies. If I take it now, I'll be done, but I'm more fresh in the mornings, so I think I'll wait. I only need a 60% to pass the class, but I'm hoping for better for pride's sake :)

One last haul!

68

68%, not degrees...it was actually 80 today. Yeah, I took my last open-book/open-note quiz today and got a 68%, the worst grade I have ever gotten on an exam. I kind of laughed because I couldn't believe it. I knew all the material, but the questions were very hard. Thankfully it was only 10% of my grade, but the cumulative final is on Wed and that is 30% of my grade. I have done well on all the other quizzes, so I probably won't fail the class :) There goes my 3.9 GPA.

Dan and I had coffee on the square this morning and had a nice afternoon walk. The weather is just so pleasant!

I am in denial about the amount of studying I have to do for these two finals, but I keep plugging away at the work. I was excited to turn in 2 of the 3 papers that I have left today and I'm making corrections on the third, so Thursday will be here before you know it!

CHURCH NEWS
Supposedly there is this guy who calls himself and apostle who conducts miracle services. Dan googled him and cannot find out anything about him. I don't know if he lives in New Jersey, but some people from our church visited him there. He was suppose to preach Fri-Sun (4 services) at our church and canceled on Friday afternoon, saying he "couldn't fit it into his schedule." The poor people at our church were saddened and I felt for them, but I was annoyed with how insensitive he was...especially since this was a big, planned event and people from all over were there with standing room only! This was the second time that he's canceled since we've lived in Spain. Thank God he did not come!

Anyway, they brought in some other couple who have a singing/worship ministry and also heal people. It was interesting to watch since I've never seen a service like that. I guess that's all I'll say about that.

We went Fri and Sat night, so we're taking our day of rest off ;) Tomorrow and Tuesday are my only days to cram two classes into my head for the two finals...then we're off to vacation!!

getting better but winding down

Yay, I feel better! I have a terrible cold now and some chills, but much better than a couple of days ago when I couldn't even look at the computer. I have 3 exams and 3 papers to turn in and then I'm done on Thursday!

My pharmacology prof said she might give me a multiple choice test instead of the "short answer" ones that I complained about. I really hope that happens!!! I have a feeling she won't give me as much time as others to complete it because she is terrified of cheating. It is very frustrating but I'm almost done!

Our Spring Break starts next Friday. We are off to Madrid for a couple of days, fly to Barcelona and then travel the coast till we reach home! I am so excited for this trip because we'll actually see all the major cities in Spain!

Until then...I must work!

sickness

Dan got sick after our Andorra trip. He had chills and then fever and body aches. I have the chills and body aches. I have till the 19th to finish my three papers and two exams. Not fun! I could really use your prayers!

72 degrees

Since Andorra, I've realized that it's better to take more breaks throughout the day. I seem to get more accomplished when I take a break, though it can be difficult at times. Yesterday Dan and I had a coffee out on the plaza in the hot sun. Today we took a walk around town and on the island and enjoyed the hot sun. It felt hotter than 72. ooo, my thermometer just went up to 73 :)

We are warming up our apartment now. A warm breeze is blowing through. I still wish we had direct sun light into our house, but I'll be happy that it's cool in a little while!

Well, now that I'm refreshed and renewed from my walk, I hope to get a bit of work done this evening!

Gala

Yesterday Dan and I had a long day. There was a morning service at church (the first one we had ever heard of) at 10:30. We got there at 10:25 and the service did not start until 11:30. It was very difficult for Dan and I to sit there and watch our day slip away, especially because we have so much work to accomplish in the next few weeks.

The morning service actually turned out really well and was quite moving. The visiting pastor/evangelist was amazing with the youth and kept everyone's attention which is pretty amazing in our church.

The evening service started an hour late as well, but was fun. The keyboardist is amazing and I asked him if he could lower the key of my song and he said no problem. When I went up to sing, he didn't even know which song I was going to sing, so it was too high again (2nd night in a row) but the people liked it. Of course I did not win, but some of the talent was just amazing! So glad Dan and I had this weekend of fun, but now we have a week to make up for it!

Also, I'm so happy for Leah and Teirney and their new arrival! Congratulations!!!

Friday Opener

A few months ago, Dan and I were told that we had to be apart of the youth talent show and we didn't know what we were getting into. A few weeks ago, we practiced singing a song (for our talent) from Oh Brother Where Art Thou, and the people in the front row sat, eyes glazing over and mouth open...looking bored or scared. They asked us to sing a different song. I laughed hard! I thankfully brought a bunch, so we tried some and by the end, it was Dan getting "kicked out of the band" and me singing. Poor Dan!

Tonight was the start of the big youth Gala. I was told I was going to sing Friday and Saturday and I was very confused about it. When we got there, I was told I was going to sing the entire time....What? I had one song prepared.

Two guys got up and led two songs and then I got up and with a ton of feedback and standing 10 feet from the front row, I found it very distracting. My song didn't turn out well. They kept it going and then asked me to do another. Jesus (the keyboardist) played a song that we had already practiced before and I sang that. Later I found that I was part of the "opening". Now everyone heard my "talent" song! ha ha...it was horrible!

I'm so confused. My Spanish is for sure getting better, but I'm so lost here :)

We'll see how tomorrow goes!

Exciting Times

I officially have two weeks left of Winter quarter and will be so happy to have all this work done! I cannot thank God enough for giving me the strength and peace that I've needed to get all these projects, papers, exams, etc., done. I am slowly chipping away at these last projects and have been happy with the results.

I have not been having the panic spells as of late, but really have a peace in the midst of the storm. If I learned anything from Andorra, it's that I may be more productive with big breaks during the day, or at least a break. Yesterday Dan and I went grocery shopping and I got a lot of work done after that. I think just sitting in front of this computer screen can be numbing and for sure distracting if people post things on facebook. I'll check that one posting, then see some photos that people posted, and before you know it, 20 minutes has gone by.

I just found out that the U.S. has Daylight Savings this weekend so I looked up Spain's and we do not changed until the 29th. I just need to know for lecture and testing purposes. I do not want to be late :) or miss an exam due to something as silly as a time change.

Well...I'm off to eat breakfast and work!

Dan's Andorra

Dan's version of Andorra is beautifully written, so I recommend it!

Andorra was great. Now I have 16 days, well 15 now since it's 8 pm and I'm off to church, to complete everything for Winter Quarter '09!

Andorra

Well, after latino grocery store stop, Columbian meal, and our hot hotel stay in Madrid, we were off at 7 am on Wednesday to drive 7 hours to Andorra. It was an uneventful trip with boring scenery. It is truly amazing how big Spain is, especially when you drive it.

We arrived as the other Madridian Fulbrighters arrived. Our hotel is AMAZING! We have two tvs (not that I'm using them), a huge couch, a huge bed, and a great bathroom. Robes would be wonderful, but this hotel, like the one in Madrid is hot and we cannot get it cooler without opening the window.

We are having great weather here (probably up to 60s in the sun) while Merida is in the 70s! Wow! We have been eating buffet style non-stop, so I will for sure pack on some pound for the great fast of the end of the quarter.

Today we visited a 15th century church, a 19th century rich man's house, and the Andorran parliament. The mountains are snow topped and quite beautiful. I can see how people are happy here...they have a ton of money and there is hardly any crime.

Well, soon I'm off to a cheese and Pyrenee's traditional food tasting! Photos will be posted when I get back to Spain!

Oh...I forgot to mention that I've been able to get a lot of work done while Dan has meetings. This has been a huge relief for me, so I just have to keep plugging away and this quarter will soon be over!

in Madrid

Dan and I had a quick drive to Madrid. It was 3 hrs, but it seemed to go quickly. Though we're a bit on the outskirts, it was still impossible to find parking near our hotel. The place is nice, there is internet, and I'm getting some work done. For a late lunch we had doner kabob, so there is nothing more satisfying than working on a belly full of good food.

It is really warm today! It says it's 68 in Merida, but it must be that warm here too since my light jacket kept me too warm.

Our friends should be arriving soon, so I should work a bit more. We have a 7 hour drive to Andorra tomorrow. I will not get much work done this week which makes me a bit panicked, but I know I'll get my weekly assignments done. I have to!

Photos of Carnaval

drum circle


lots of pork w/ poor little piglets roasting


Gotta have Romans in Mérida


pony rides


my pony :)


21 Euro lunch.

Carnaval then Andorra

Wow, I'm getting my work done, thank you God! I have been diligent and motivated and I have gotten so much work done! I will still have a lot to do on our trip unfortunately, but I am putting some stuff off to enjoy a few tours in Andorra. Everything is paid for, we are staying at the nicest hotel, and one night we'll be enjoying a cheese and Pyrenees food tasting!!! I am thrilled and will thoroughly enjoy it!

Last night I needed to run some errands with Dan and there were ponies near our house. Everything was decked out in Renaissance-looking tents, especially around the 15th century church. Many were, what I call, booze tents and some where full of crafts or trinkets. There are also many things for children intertwined between the booze tents and crafts, so I was a bit taken aback. One interesting thing were the people who were setting up the tents...they were true Carnies. I hope to take photos of some, just so you know what I mean because my words cannot describe them!

What is this? CARNAVAL!

Today Carnaval starts at noon, but I will be busy getting some work done. Dan and I look forward to taking lots of pictures. I think Spain is still conservative enough that they'll all be PG or G photos, though it is Carnaval.


Carnaval ends on Tuesday, but we are leaving that day for Madrid, spend a night there, and then we're off to Andorra and come back late Saturday night! I am thrilled and hope that I can get my work done, so I must work now!

The Quarter System

UC is supposedly going off the quarter system sometime and I hope for future students that it will be soon. I am just now in my weekly routine and it's the 7th week out of 10.

Since I had two exams this week, I have not begun my other assignments that I usually have a good start on them by Wednesdays. I have to shake off that feeling and work, but I'm feeling exhausted. Dan has decided to work late evenings now and I had a test this morning that I had to get up for, so I did not get much sleep.

My Pharmacology exam was ridiculous. 16 essay questions that she calls "short answer". Craziness!

My class is at 7pm my time, but others will be taking the exam in class today, so I won't have class until later. Usually Wednesdays are my 8 hrs of class, and now after today, I have only 3 weeks left!

My eyes are going cross as I write this and now I have to think about writing a couple of papers :P

On another note: Dan and I went to church last night. It has been awhile since we've gone on a Tuesday, but it was nice. We sang and prayed and then after a couple of people shared stories and scripture, they called Dan and me up. I didn't go up, but I told him a passage to read. I got lectured after service by a few people that I should have gone up and Dan should have translated. Dan agreed :) It was cute, so next time I'll go up, but I hate being put on the spot. They are all so loving though. It will be hard to say good-bye.

I was asked to sing a song on Sunday as well. I'm quite nervous since they are amazing musicians. I was going to play keyboard, but the keyboardist is just too good and said he'd play for me.

Heb 13: 20-21 Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Like I said before, I have had a relaxing week. It is time to buckle down a bit and get a lot of work done before the trip to Andorra. I have an exam tonight and one on Wednesday and many papers and projects. I was refreshed to read this passage in Hebrews about being equipped by God. I think the saying is, "What He calls you to do, He equips you to do." I know that I am suppose to be doing this program, along with many other things, and that God has, or is, preparing and equipping me to do these things well. School is difficult and quite challenging, but I have been strengthened to do it well to God's glory!

Dan's Feb 14 posting

Dan doesn't blog too often, but when he does it's enjoyable to read even though it's too lengthy.

Happy V-day!

It's Valentine's Day, but that doesn't mean much here. I'm dressed up though and I might put on makeup for Dan :) We usually don't celebrate and this year will not be any different. I'm hoping to enjoy Andorra though when we go on the 24!

The sun has still be shining and the weather has been just hitting 60s. I have taken it easy this week, sort of doing the bare minimum. I am now rejuvenated to work hard for the rest of the quarter which is only a month. I have two exams this week (Monday and Wednesday) that I'm not looking forward to, but soon they will be done!

Did I mention that group projects are quite unfair? I was so overwhelmed with all my work, but I still got my work in...and it was over-the-top good. Now I have people complaining what they should do. I just want them to get their work done. Silly stuff, but I know it will all work out well!

I was reading a great story in 2 Chronicles 20. God told Jehoshaphat that the battle is His, so Jehoshaphat and Jerusalem worshiped God and it confused the enemy. No matter what storm we are in, we cannot stop worshiping the Lord. That is the first thing to go sometimes, but it must not happen. We can petition our weaknesses and needs, but we must praise the Lord for His strength, peace, joy, etc.

Rebajas

If you can believe it, rebajas (sales) are still going on here! All clothes are 3 euros, but I have to muster up the strength to dig around if I want some good clothes. Dan bought me another pashmina in red!

I got out AGAIN for the 3rd day in a row! It was so warm that I was actually hot in my sweater, scarf, and light jacket! I love that warm feeling!

The sun!

It is finally sunny without rain! The sun cheers me up, especially when I feel it on my face...with sunscreen ;) We are suppose to be in the 60s, but we've been hovering around mid-50s. I just found out that this is the coldest winter that Mérida has experienced in a long time. Thankfully, it was still warmer than Cincinnati.

Dan got the full-blown cold and now we are both sniffling and coughing. We took a nice, long walk around the island yesterday and enjoyed the sun's warmth.

Today is my 8 hours of class, but only 4 more after today! Time is flying!

Dan and I don't really celebrate holidays like Valentine's Day, but I was hoping to get out and buy some dark chocolate or something. Maybe tomorrow!

Thankful for prayers

I had an enjoyable weekend for once. I really didn't do anything out of the ordinary, but I had so much peace. I caught up on my work and actually spent the weekend working on end of the quarter projects which was relieving. Until then, I did not have a free moment to work and to actually start was nice!

I can't thank my family and friends enough for their prayers! I truly lose sight of reality when I'm in school. I was so overwhelmed and could not focus, and now I am getting my work done and do not feel the stress as I did before. My work is still overwhelming, but I just take deep breaths and focus on one thing at a time.

I am getting over a cold while Dan is trying to fight it off on his own. I am hoping he doesn't get sick because he has his own stress from the dissertation. Our Andorra trip and spring break will be wonderful for a well-being!

On a side note: I wanted to buy chorizo but I accidentally bought blood sausage. Usually blood sausage is black, so I really don't believe this had blood in it. Dan and I decided to try it, so he fried it up and it tasted like chorizo, so it was a success. I will be more careful next time, but at least it tasted good. It is gross to think about, but I have to log the few Spanish memories that I'm making!

Redeemed to Worship...not complain

I have been listening to 3 Christian podcasts that are so diverse from one another, it sort of makes my head spin. Greg Boyd is the pastor of Woodland Hills Church in St. Paul, and I've never heard sermons like his. He's more hippy-ish, but sticks to scripture. I also listen to Mark Driscoll who is the pastor of Mars Hill Church in Seattle. He is very loud, hip, and is a Calvinist...ha ha. My 3rd sort of guilty pleasure is a 15 minute daily teaching by Joyce Meyers. She really drives me nuts, but for some reason I really get a lot out of her messages.

All three are so different. My head is swarmed with thoughts of Jesus and applying his teaching to my life. I think the main thing that I get from all the teaching is that my life cannot stay the same. I must continue to grow.

One area of growth that needs a lot of prayer and a lot of Jesus is my mouth. I was redeemed to worship my God, not to complain. School is killing me...almost literally. I am sick, stressed, and am barely making it through each day. God has strengthened me a lot through this and because of people's prayers, I have really been feeling his peace.

I am excited to be able to say I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!

He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength when the labors increase;
To added affliction He addeth His mercies,
To multiplied trials His multiplied peace.

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father's full giving is only begun.
His love has no limit, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth and giveth and giveth again.
--Annie Johnson Flint