pregnancy blog

Since being pregnant, I have started another blog, so this one is left to the way side for a while.
http://oslandbaby.blogspot.com/?zx=cf711df47a93c4b1

Amazing Times

Dan and I have found a church that we'd like to get to know more about and attend regularly.  They have small groups that I'd like to attend, but I was concerned that I would not be able to attend on a regular basis since I work night shift and varied shifts. 

Today I had an interview at Indiana University School of Nursing.  I accepted a part-time teaching position that I am thrilled about.  It will be 2 sessions on Tuesdays, so I asked my hospital manager if I could have off on Mondays and Tuesdays.  IU Health (the hospital that I work at) has a contract with IU to be flexible with schedules in order to provide instructors.  My manager was happy to support me and that thrilled me.

I also realized that I can attend small group on Tuesdays since I'll be free those nights!  Praise God!  All the details, big to small, were taken care of in this!  I couldn't be happier!

facebook "about me"

My "about me" on facebook hasn't been updated in a while, so I thought I'd paste my travels here and delete that on my account.

2002-2003:
Sept-March--lived in Portugal
*Went to Merida, Spain for the first time*
June-Aug--Honeymoon/Digging in Portugal
Dec--Christmas in Portugal

2004-2005:
I can't remember, but we went to Portugal

2006:
World Cup in Germany + Brussels, Paris, & Amsterdam (and of course Portugal)!
Dug in Merida, Spain

2007:
June 11-July 20 Portugal/Merida, Spain
July 21-mid Aug Chicago, MN, WI
Sept--backpacking outside of Seattle
Oct--nursing in Tanzania
Dec--Brazil

2008:
Jan--my brother-in-law's wedding in Brazil
(New Years in Rio!!!!)
March--Arizona,
June--St. Louis (Dan's hs reunion)
July--MN
Aug--WI
Aug--moved to Merida, SPAIN
Oct--Salamanca
Dec--Sevilla, Lisbon

2009:
Feb--Andorra (the country)
March--Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, Cordoba, and Cadiz, SPAIN
June--Moved back to Cinci
Sept--DC, Chicago, Tucson
Dec--San Antonio

2010:
Jan--Anaheim, CA
April--DC
May--WI/MN, West Virgina mountains
July--Kansas City, MO
August--Monticello, KY
Nov--WI/MN
Dec--Chicago

2011:
Jan--San Antonio
Feb--Chicago
Mar--DC
June--Houston
July--Moved to Bloomington, IN

We're here!

Ok, we've been Bloomington for a week and a half, but I have finally gotten around to posting.  Our move went so smoothly with only one hang up.  The movers did a great job loading the truck.  Dan and I can't stand sitting around, so we actually helped them pack the truck.  When we arrived in B-town, we found that our apartment was not up to par.  The floor boards that were scratched were pulled up despite us telling the apartment manager that we did not mind the scratches.  There was a broken light bulb on the kitchen counter and a pile of 1000 nails.  The toilet was disgusting and just because I'm a nurse, I prefer to keep my gross duties at work and not clean up after others in my own home.

Thankfully, Dan got a hold of the manager and the maintenance guy and things were taken care of right away.  There is still a list of "to dos", but it is much more manageable. 

We only had two days to unpack before my parents arrived for a 4 day stay.  We did well, but there were a lot of boxes left when they came.  Since I'm so particular about where things go, I told them to relax and that we'd explore Bloomington together.  We enjoyed going to Monroe Lake, walking around campus, attending the fireworks, and eating at amazing restaurants.  My parents loved B-Town as much as I do I think! 

I had my first week of work which was just computer training.  It has been hard to sit in front of a computer all day, but it is going fine.  I am so excited to start, but I am nervous as well!  I am also extremely excited that I get to teach at IU as well!  This is great for my career!

Well, last week we tried one church and we're going to go to a different one this morning.  There were 3 churches that I was interested in, but we'll see how today goes.  We're praying that God leads us into a place where we can serve.

Lastly, we are hoping our friends and family will be able to visit us soon!!!  We love it here and look forward to some great camping and hiking!

Packing

So much has happened in the last few weeks.  I'm so happy that Dan is graduated and that is a very long chapter that we can close.  We got the keys to our apartment and hired movers for June 29th, so we have been packing.  We are almost done and we're a week early!  We're off to Houston this weekend for a wedding, so we wanted everything done before that time.

We have also spent each day with friends.  We had the warmest send off from our church.  I didn't realize how emotionally attached I was and was thankful for all the love and blessing we received from everyone.  I also was sad to leave work friends.  Everyone was so kind and I'll miss the teamwork of the unit.

The only bad thing that has happened is that it keeps raining.  We need just a few more boxes, but we cannot get any in the rain.  They would never dry out in our basement apartment.  Thankfully, we'll have tomorrow and next Mon and Tue.  See you in Indiana!

This is something that has been on my mind for a long while.  I used to  wonder how many of these people on the street corner were lazy, but' God says this isn't something that I should judge.  I need to meet people's  needs.  I was given a lot in life and it is selfish to not care for others as  Jesus calls me to do.  The problem is in what to give.  I just can't give  money every time.  I hate enabling addictions when someone is starving.   Dan and I bought protein bars to pass out while we're driving, but somehow  that just doesn't seem enough.  Lord, teach me to be Your hands and feet  to serve others and not just be comfortable in my own ways.   Faith is Something We Do by Rick Warren

“Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, ‘Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?” James 2:15-16 (NIV) Faith is more than something you just feel. Many people confuse emotions and feelings with faith. They come to church and they’re moved emotionally, they're inspired, and they're stimulated. But that doesn’t mean they’re walking in faith. The Bible says faith is something we do, not just what we feel. In other words, faith is not mere sentimentality. Let’s say I go out on the street and I see someone who is homeless and destitute. I see that person is hungry, cold, in need of clothing and shelter. Would I be showing great faith if I walked up and said, “Cheer up! Don't worry, be happy! Feel good! Put on a happy face?” It doesn’t take much faith to do that. Faith carries compassion. 'Faith says, “I’ll do anything I can to stop your hurt.” Throughout theNew Testament, the witnesses say Jesus was moved with compassion for people. Jesus showed us that faith is practical. When we see a need, we do something about it. We don't just toss out a quick - “Well, I'll pray for you.” The Bible says we show our faith by what we do.

Interviews

Things are going so well for me in the job search, though nothing is permanent yet.  I had a phone interview for possible teaching opportunities at Indiana University's College of Nursing.  I told the associate dean that I am more interested in teaching their labs (basic nursing skills, assessment, and critical care multi-systems) and precepting students in the clinical setting over giving a lecture at this point.  I said I'd like more experience before getting into the formal classroom setting.

I was thrilled then to talk to the other hospital in town and set up an interview for their critical care and emergency department.  Though I was offered a job in the small hospital, it frightens me to come from a place that has multiple resources available to a small place where I am sort of on my own.  It would be a welcomed challenge and I am excited if that is where God places me, but I'm keeping my options open for now.

Dan defends on Wed, so we are just thrilled that this transition is happening so smoothly.  We are not looking forward to the literal move, but we are so excited for this next chapter in our life.  We have been in Cincinnati 8 years and since it is a college town, we have seen a lot of friends move on and move away.  We have hit that season and it will be hard to say goodbye to those who will remain here.  Dan and I started our married life together here and Cincinnati will always have a special place in my heart for that and our academic careers as well.  As we turn the page and start the new chapter, we will look back at our time in Cincinnati with fond memories.

Bloomington, IN

Dan and I loved Bloomington!  The city has more apartments than I have ever seen before.  We are narrowing it down to getting a town home with a washer and drier and a dish washer.  I am very excited about those amenities!

The university is gorgeous!  It was still in dead winter mode, so everything was gray, but the stone buildings are amazing!  Dan's building is known as the ugliest and tallest on campus, but at least he has a view of the beautiful buildings.  The faculty in Dan's department are extremely cordial and I'm excited for him and this position.  It is too ideal! 

The traffic is so busy on the narrow streets.  I thought since we were going out west that the streets would be wider.  Nope!  I may have to make some right-hand turns to get where I'm going since left-hand turns are almost impossible.

I still have had no luck in finding a job in Bloomington, though Columbus (1 hour away) is interested in me.  I don't think I can manage the hills in Brown County State Park though in the winter.  I will continue to wait and apply and hopefully some contacts will help me land the "perfect" job!

JOB!!!!

Dan got a job at Indiana University in Bloomington!!!

Personality

Working with others is always interesting.  I grew up in WI where everyone is very nice and considerate of others.  They will move out of your way, speak kindly or not at all, and if they have something to say that isn't nice, it will be in a passive/aggressive fashion.  I was very passive/aggressive and I hated it.  I feel that living in Cincinnati for the past 8 years and being married to Dan has helped me overcome most of that behavior.  I am much more blunt, which can be hurtful to others at times.  I am now working on a way to be blunt and not passive/aggressive while taking others' feelings into account as well.  I used to only think about how other people felt and always put myself on hold or last, but I was severely hurt by doing this.  The key is BALANCE!  That I can say is NOT me, but I'm not as bad as I used to be :)

So, as for personality, I took a test today that said the following and I think it's pretty correct.  It says I'm not hurt by others easily and that is not true, but I am much better than I used to be.  I can take criticism pretty well, but when people do not like me, that is quite the blow to my narcissistic ego!  Come on, everyone has to like me! ;)

Here are my results:

 Determined Realist (DR)

Determined Realists like to bear responsibility and welcome challenges. They are stable, reliable persons. External contacts are very important to them; they mix well and are very active. They are excellent organisers and are very happy when things are done correctly and punctually; they can quickly react impatiently if others are not as conscientious, orderly and dutiful as they are. They prefer structured work which produces visible results quickly to abstract, long-drawn-out processes. Determined Realists have no problem with routine as long as it serves efficiency. However, they very much dislike unexpected and unpredictable occurrences which mess up their careful plans. Once they have committed themselves to a cause they do this with dedication and are willing to make considerable sacrifices for it.

Determined Realists do not avoid conflicts and criticism but face up to them and look for solutions. As they have a keen eye for the errors and shortcomings of others and are often quick at expressing criticism, they sometimes rub people up the wrong way especially when they lose their temper and jump to conclusions. Due to their marked sense of justice they are quickly willing to correct themselves and never take offence if someone speaks to them frankly. You do not have to seek hidden motives with them; you always know where you are. Determined Realists are often found in executive positions as they combine commitment, competence and the ability to assert themselves. In their spare time, they often also accept responsibility in clubs and other institutions.

Traditions rate highly with Determined Realists. They attend every family event and never forget a birthday or wedding anniversary. Family and friends are very important to them. With their open, communicative manner, they find it easy to get to know people and have a large circle of friends and acquaintances. They are never superficial, but reliable and loyal friends who are always there when they are needed. Determined Realists take their relationships very seriously - they dream of finding a partner for life. In a love relationship, they seek above all stability and loyalty and here, too, they are willing to invest a lot in a harmonious togetherness. Determined Realists master crises or difficult phases with composure; they would never think of breaking a promise given. As a partner, one can always rely on their support.

Resolutions Part III

Dan has his big interview this Mon-Wed at Duquesne!  I am so excited for him and wish I could go and see Pittsburgh.  If he gets the job, I guess I'll see lots of Pittsburgh!  I'll always be a Packer fan, but I said I'd route for the Steelers if it helped get Dan a job :)

As for my other resolutions, things have been going well.  I have continued to stretch and workout until this past week when I hurt my wrist.  I don't know what I did at work, but it has been so painful and it shoots up my arm.  I've still been able to stretch, but it has hindered my yoga and strength training.

The only resolution that is falling by the way side is studying for the CCRN exam.  I haven't even picked up the book because I'm too nervous.  It is a $350 exam that will only be paid for if I pass.  Studying alone will help my nursing, but I'm not sure if I can take the exam.  I need to set aside the next 3 months and work on it.  I am just scared to get in study mode again.

Nothing much is new.  I've been on night shift for the past 3 weeks, so my brain is funky.  I just had 3 days off and have been taking 2 naps per day.  Now I work 3 nights in a row, so we'll see how that goes. 

I'm excited for a Chicago trip that is coming up soon.  I'm meeting my best friend there for a long weekend and I can't wait to just relax and enjoy the town with her!  I will have to see if anything really interesting is happening there Valentine's weekend!

Resolutions Part II

1. I have not begun to start studying for CCRN
2. I have been stretching everyday while getting out of bed and then picking up my cardio workouts besides my yoga routine.  I was concerned about another back injury, so I'm excited to get my core stronger!
3. MY LOANS ARE PAID OFF!!!!
4. I cleaned, but I have a lot more to do!
5. Dan has had interviews and I'm proud to say that he has an on-campus interview that we are thrilled about!

So far, so good!  2011 is great!

resolutions

My 2011 New Year's Resolutions:
1. Study to take the CCRN exam and pass.
2. Stretch every day
3.  Pay off my student loans.
4. Clean more often, even if it's a tiny apartment.
5. Get Dan a job!

I'm excited to see what the new year brings.  God has blessed us so much and I am excited to see what journey He takes us on next.  I'm so thankful for my wonderful husband and our growing relationship with Jesus and each other.

God bless you all!

Merry Christmas from Cinci!

This year was a first that I did not decorate or really get into the Christmas spirit.  Dan hung up some stockings that were on our shelf just a couple days ago, but that's it.  I enjoyed sending out cards, but it cost about $100 (that's the cheapest I could find).  Due to advancement in technology, I'm thinking about cutting my list for next year and doing more electronic cards.

Last night we did have a couple of friends over and enjoyed dinner, Settlers of Catan, and DDR.  We stayed up till 3am, so that was fun.  Tonight we go to another couple's house.  They have a 3 year old, so that will be fun to get into the Christmas spirit with them.

I hope you are having a lovely Christmas and enjoying time with family and friends.  I am very curious about where we'll be next Christmas, but until then, we will enjoy our Cincinnati 2010 Christmas.

Alicia en el pais de las maravillas: Advent Conspiracy

Last year I posted this:

Alicia en el pais de las maravillas: Advent Conspiracy: "The Advent Conspiracy is an organization that makes you think about Christmas, its true meaning, and how materialistic it has become. Last ..."

I wanted to repost this since Black Friday and Cyber Monday just passed us by. I was thinking about buying charity gift cards for my nieces for Christmas, but Dan says it's not his ideal to force people to give to charity. Maybe he's right.

I will be giving to Living Water this year. They have some amazing photos and videos about providing clean water to countries all around the world. Please think about taking your Christmas money or an hour of your wages and giving it to this organization.

Meditation

Jeremiah 29:
¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ¹⁴ I will be found by you," declares the LORD

Psalm 37:
⁴ Delight yourself in the LORD
       and he will give you the desires of your heart.
 ⁵ Commit your way to the LORD;
       trust in him and he will do this:

Philipians 1:6
he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Give Me Your Eyes

Brandon Heath, a Christian artist, has a song called "Give Me Your Eyes" and the words are just amazing!  Dan isn't the biggest fan of Christian music, but he sometimes tolerates me listening to it in the car.  He definitely makes fun of this song with the "ye-ahs" and sometimes sings along with a Spanish/Jamaican accent.  I laugh.

Anyway, back to the words, they are so powerful.  People are hurting, frustrated, lost...and how often do I look beyond myself and seek their needs?  Well, my job allows for this, but what about in "real life"?  I have started to pray for those people who really piss me off when I'm driving.  Those who cross the center line coming towards me, those who swing into my lane to make a right-hand turn or those who drift over into my lane for no apparent reason except that they're texting or talking on their phones.  This is a hard discipline.  I usually get so angry that I'm seething. 

Now to extend this to every part of my day.  Can I look at people as God does?  He loves them...all!  Lord, please give me your eyes and help me show Your love to those I encounter and to those You place in my path.  May I love them as You love me.

The Valley of Vision

I found this Puritan prayer and was so touched by it.

Lord, high and holy, meek and lowly, Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision, where I live in the depths but see Thee in the heights; hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold Thy glory. Let me learn by paradox that the way down is the way up, that to be low is to be high, that the broken heart is the healed heart, that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit, that the repenting soul is the victorious soul, that to have nothing is to possess all, that to bear the cross is to wear the crown, that to give is to receive, that the valley is the place of vision. Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells, and the deeper the wells the brighter Thy stars shine; let me find Thy light in my darkness, Thy life in my death, Thy joy in my sorrow, Thy grace in my sin, Thy riches in my poverty, Thy glory in my valley.

No caffeine!!!

I did it!  I'm off caffeine!  I do have a small cup of green tea in the morning, but that is great for me!  I was drinking 2 big cups of coffee in the morning and 1-2 in the late morning or early afternoon.

I have also started my wii workouts again after taking off the summer.  They are kicking my butt and I have been sore, but the workouts are getting better.  EA Sports Active is my cardio workout while wii fit is my yoga and strength training.

I'm not the biggest fruit person, but I have boosted my eating to include fresh fruits and vegetables.  Now that I have a pressure cooker, that has cut out canned beans.  I hope to eat most of my food unpackaged from now on.  We used to eat everything frozen (fruits and veggies) and from a can (spaghetti sauce, tomatoes, beans, etc.).  We'll see how long I can keep this up.  I do however eat "Health Choice" frozen meals at work if I get sick of taking sandwiches.

I hope this fall and winter will be energy packed as I stick to healthier habits. 

Women on the corner

Everyone knows there is prostitution.  It is talked about in different contexts and glamorized by Hollywood with Julie Roberts in Pretty Woman.  I have never encountered prostituted women (the politically correct term since calling them prostitutes is too much of a label I guess), until I moved to this part of Clifton last year.

We live two blocks from the street (the largest prostitution area) where these women walk up and down and men in Mercedes, BMWs, Minis, etc. all stop and pick them up at all times day and night.  I was shocked.  I couldn't understand.  These women are no Julia Roberts either.  They are all drug addicts and continuously look strung out at all times. 

As soon as I realized what was going on (it took me a couple months to get it), my heart broke.  I couldn't stop thinking about these girls.  This was awful.  I couldn't imagine their life, nor wanted to, but I was haunted by them.  Dan and I passed them every time we got on I-75.  This past spring, one girl was completely bloodied.  I started praying for these girls and found that I was having nightmares about them.  I wanted to do something for them, but what?

This past August, I had a patient who was a girl who worked down my my house as a prostitute for drug money.  She gave me a lot of insight about how prostitution works, pimps, and other things that I have never known.  She told me that she was often homeless and would go hungry to buy heroin.  After having her 4 days in a row, I asked her if there was something I could do for those girls; maybe I could take food.  My patient said bottled water would be the best.

That is where is sparked.  I talked to a friend about passing water and protein bars out to prostitutes.  She thought it was a great idea.  She also had a friend who was completely wanting to do this.  We gathered together and prayed.  Every Saturday morning (except the days I work), we go out passing out water and protein bars.  I continuously look for the pimps, but there have not been that many girls out when we've gone out.

Please pray that God's love would shine through us as we pass the water out to them.  We are not trying to take them out of prostitution nor take their time talking about Jesus, we're just giving them water and protein bars and hoping they feel/experience true love.