It’s been for.ev.er. And a lot of things happened in the mean time. I graduated from grad school (awesome). Got engaged (yes, then no, then yes). Started to plan a wedding. Pretty exciting stuff.
Almost too exciting, really. This planning a wedding is hard stuff! I had no idea how much goes into it, and I certainly had no idea how draining it all is. With that said, I still am very excited about it, but nervous. Have you ever been to a wedding, and it was just awesome? Then, have you gone to another wedding, and it was okay? My question is what makes the awesome weddings so… awesome? Is it the food? The color scheme? The couple? Does anyone have suggestions?
Honestly, I think it’s the people. If the guests are in a good mood, and willing to put effort into making the night fun, then it will be a good wedding. Right? That’s what I’m counting on. I’d like to think I’m surrounded with the best of friends and family so I have nothing to worry about!
I hope to be updating about wedding planning more often now that I’m done grad school. Sure, I still have to study for my Boards but I’m in no rush. My goal is to take them by November. Until then… planning time.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Changing?
There is a lot of change going on!
First, my blog changed layouts randomly on me, and I was unable to sign in despite being able to sign into my gmail. Seriously? Is someone that desperately bored that they change blog schemes but leave everything else alone?
Second, it is going to be a year later since my quarter life crisis. I am now officially entering my late twenties! I feel like just yesterday I was 16, thinking how absolutely old I would be when I was 26. Now that it's here, I'm really not upset about it. In fact, I feel more comfortable being 26 than I did being 24 or 25. Acceptance is a wonderful thing.
Third, my countdown to freedom, aka graduating grad school, is only 95 calendar days away! I can almost taste the victory (whether I mean the song or the beer, you decide).
Fourth, only two more weeks till I start remodeling my bathrooms! You know you're old when the idea of white on white counter tops really excite you. But I'm okay with that. :)
Another year. Cheers!
First, my blog changed layouts randomly on me, and I was unable to sign in despite being able to sign into my gmail. Seriously? Is someone that desperately bored that they change blog schemes but leave everything else alone?
Second, it is going to be a year later since my quarter life crisis. I am now officially entering my late twenties! I feel like just yesterday I was 16, thinking how absolutely old I would be when I was 26. Now that it's here, I'm really not upset about it. In fact, I feel more comfortable being 26 than I did being 24 or 25. Acceptance is a wonderful thing.
Third, my countdown to freedom, aka graduating grad school, is only 95 calendar days away! I can almost taste the victory (whether I mean the song or the beer, you decide).
Fourth, only two more weeks till I start remodeling my bathrooms! You know you're old when the idea of white on white counter tops really excite you. But I'm okay with that. :)
Another year. Cheers!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Home-nyasium
It's that time again: it's almost time for me to re-new my gym membership that I invariably never use.
But this year is different. This year, I actually have still exercised despite not going to the gym. For example, I've rode my bike every day for the past week, I trade off on doing my medicine ball or my toning ball, and I make sure I do at minimum 10 push-up's a day.
I can't emphasize enough how much the medicine ball has changed my life. My friend Shannon recently saw me and asked if I was okay- just because my stomach looked that flat! I suggest using this medicine ball and this toning ball if you're interested:
I started with the 4 lbs., but it was too light and should have started at 6 lbs. Now I'm on the 8 lbs. and that gives me a good work-out. Both come with posters that give you exercise ideas. Try it out!
But this year is different. This year, I actually have still exercised despite not going to the gym. For example, I've rode my bike every day for the past week, I trade off on doing my medicine ball or my toning ball, and I make sure I do at minimum 10 push-up's a day.
I can't emphasize enough how much the medicine ball has changed my life. My friend Shannon recently saw me and asked if I was okay- just because my stomach looked that flat! I suggest using this medicine ball and this toning ball if you're interested:
I started with the 4 lbs., but it was too light and should have started at 6 lbs. Now I'm on the 8 lbs. and that gives me a good work-out. Both come with posters that give you exercise ideas. Try it out!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The End of Gen Y?
“You’re that Generation Y,” my mother told me. “I saw it on TV.” Well then...it must be true.
After doing some research, I read that “Generation Y” was first meant as a label for those born after “Generation X” as a pejorative term. Now it is simply “Gen Y” and the years it includes is under debate- on average, the years included are 1978-1989.
The distinguishing features of Gen Y include financial smarts, work-life balance, and frequently changing jobs.
However, I can’t help but wonder- in this state of economic distress, will the description of Gen Y change? Can Gen Y’ers really demand a work-life balance and frequently change jobs when they are scared about securing a job at all? And are they smartly managing their money by contributing to their 401k’s, or is this now a plan for disaster?
I am curious to see how this plays out. In the mean time, I’ll just be happy I’m not considered part of the “Millennials” or the “Net Generation.”
PS- I found the pic online on many different sites and do not know who to give credit it to.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Becoming Ageless
No, I don’t mean becoming a diamond or Dick Clark. With 26 right around the corner, I figured that it’s time to start investing early in anti-aging products. After spending too much money and having too many break outs, here is what I found.
1. Aveeno Positively Ageless Night Cream
This stuff is great- it is light, smells very feminine, and doesn’t clog my pores. And after using it for two weeks, I swear my crows feet look better.
2. Listerine Whitening Pen
Did you know that having your teeth look brighter makes you look younger? And I guess it makes sense- when you’re young you didn’t do all that damage yet. I love this pen- it is easy, tastes great, and makes a difference within one day. And it’s a lot safer and cheaper than traditional whitening products.
3. Neutrogena Anti-Oxidant Age Reverse Day Lotion SP
We all know how important it is to wear sunscreen, and this formula is light enough to wear every day and provide SPF protection. Just great.
1. Aveeno Positively Ageless Night Cream
This stuff is great- it is light, smells very feminine, and doesn’t clog my pores. And after using it for two weeks, I swear my crows feet look better.
2. Listerine Whitening Pen
Did you know that having your teeth look brighter makes you look younger? And I guess it makes sense- when you’re young you didn’t do all that damage yet. I love this pen- it is easy, tastes great, and makes a difference within one day. And it’s a lot safer and cheaper than traditional whitening products.
3. Neutrogena Anti-Oxidant Age Reverse Day Lotion SP
We all know how important it is to wear sunscreen, and this formula is light enough to wear every day and provide SPF protection. Just great.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Things that made me happy today
1. Sunshine! Windows open! Spring!
2. Greek lady platter... yum
3. Getting some homework done
4. Seeing my favorite nephew!
5. Cherry blossom festival
6. Starting off ice cream season with Philly Flavors
7. Boyfriend rejoining facebook
8. Tater tots from Urban Saloon
9. Having only one patient at work on saturday
10. Checking in on Shannon :)
2. Greek lady platter... yum
3. Getting some homework done
4. Seeing my favorite nephew!
5. Cherry blossom festival
6. Starting off ice cream season with Philly Flavors
7. Boyfriend rejoining facebook
8. Tater tots from Urban Saloon
9. Having only one patient at work on saturday
10. Checking in on Shannon :)
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
City v. Suburb
I have now lived in the city for over four years. If you count my college years, I've lived in it over eight. As one can imagine, after a while, the city gets old. Today, I am especially on an "anti-city" kick. Here are some reasons why I will be super excited to get move to the suburbs within the next 3-5 years.
-less bus exhaust in my face... every two blocks.
-no scary guys telling me to smile or “shake that thing, girl”
-more trees, especially ones without gum on them
-easier parking, no $2/hr meters
-cleaner
-more selection/easier to get to stores
-no feeling like I’m going to be killed on my bike!
-less rude people
-grass
-less traffic, less cars, more space
-not being afraid to walk around at night
-neighborhood-y, not as anonymous
-not carrying groceries up >84 steps
I'm sure in two days I'll probably change my mind again and can't imagine leaving the city. We'll have to see!
-less bus exhaust in my face... every two blocks.
-no scary guys telling me to smile or “shake that thing, girl”
-more trees, especially ones without gum on them
-easier parking, no $2/hr meters
-cleaner
-more selection/easier to get to stores
-no feeling like I’m going to be killed on my bike!
-less rude people
-grass
-less traffic, less cars, more space
-not being afraid to walk around at night
-neighborhood-y, not as anonymous
-not carrying groceries up >84 steps
I'm sure in two days I'll probably change my mind again and can't imagine leaving the city. We'll have to see!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Twenty Six? Here I come!
With a little over a month to my next birthday, the dreaded 26 and entry into “late twenties,” I decided it was time for an update! I know that no one reads this anymore, but there’s still something nice about having a public journal. So let’s have a few updates:
School: I am getting there! I officially have 135 days left (including breaks/weekends/etc.) and am very excited for it! I will be finishing up my gensurg clinical at Pennsy at the end of April, and start at Abington for a med rotation at the end of May. I am getting so close I can taste it!
Work: We recently got a new manager, and all the drama that comes with a new person being in charge. That being said, the transition has been pretty smooth. With my school schedule, I’ve also been forced to work almost every Saturday- which has been surprisingly fun. It is nice to just work with one other nurse, and leave the busy week behind.
Housing: I just ordered new, custom vanities today! I am so excited about this!! Yes, they are going to cost an arm and a leg, but really, it’ll be worth it in the long run for my re-sale value. I won’t be getting them installed until the endish of May just because of my school schedule, but it should work out better that way.
Family: My nephew recently turned one, and is just too adorable. I am excited to see everyone for Easter.
Relationship: Poor Boyfriend has too much on his plate between firehouse, school, and work. But I know he’ll get through it. And we’ll get through it together. In the meantime, the fire banquet is in two or three weeks from now, and I got the cutest dress for it! Swoon! Oh, and also, I’m trying to arrange for my family to meet Boy’s family at my (fake) graduation dinner—I graduate in August, but graduate in May. Go figure.
Friends: I’ve recently been trying to reach out to some people, but all of us seem busy. I am lucky to have a few of my close friends so geographically close. It is esp. nice to hang out people who enjoy colorful conversation, or bring their boyfriends along after the art museum
Economy: Okay, so I finally stopped freaking out. Everything is going to be fine. I’ve cut my credit card bill IN HALF for the past three months and you know what? My life really isn’t that different.
Vacations: VA trip in May! Shore all summer! Ireland next year with Boyfriend!
Career Plans: I’ve had a really long thought process and lots of talks to decide what I want to do with my life. At this moment, I plan to start looking for a new outpatient specialty job in January 2010. After securing a job, I plan to start applying for PhD. programs in either Education or Nursing- haven’t quite decided yet. If I get in, I’m thinking that I’ll defer for a year or so. In the meantime, I want to get a second job teaching to make sure that I want to teach.
Life Plans: None on the table at the moment, and probably none for the next three years. I do plan on doing something fun and interesting when I graduate though. Some ideas that I have:
-training for a bike race/taking a bicycle fixing class
-taking a cooking class
-piano lessons
-more belly dancing classes? Maybe a hiphop or pilates class?
On turning 26: I’ve totally stopped freaking out. When I started this blog last year, I was a wreck- how could I be in the middle of my twenties already?! But now that I’m going to be 26, I’m just excited and feel proud- I’m only going to be 26 and I have already accomplished so much. Now if only I could get my PhD. by 32 and I’ll be set ;)
Until next time!
School: I am getting there! I officially have 135 days left (including breaks/weekends/etc.) and am very excited for it! I will be finishing up my gensurg clinical at Pennsy at the end of April, and start at Abington for a med rotation at the end of May. I am getting so close I can taste it!
Work: We recently got a new manager, and all the drama that comes with a new person being in charge. That being said, the transition has been pretty smooth. With my school schedule, I’ve also been forced to work almost every Saturday- which has been surprisingly fun. It is nice to just work with one other nurse, and leave the busy week behind.
Housing: I just ordered new, custom vanities today! I am so excited about this!! Yes, they are going to cost an arm and a leg, but really, it’ll be worth it in the long run for my re-sale value. I won’t be getting them installed until the endish of May just because of my school schedule, but it should work out better that way.
Family: My nephew recently turned one, and is just too adorable. I am excited to see everyone for Easter.
Relationship: Poor Boyfriend has too much on his plate between firehouse, school, and work. But I know he’ll get through it. And we’ll get through it together. In the meantime, the fire banquet is in two or three weeks from now, and I got the cutest dress for it! Swoon! Oh, and also, I’m trying to arrange for my family to meet Boy’s family at my (fake) graduation dinner—I graduate in August, but graduate in May. Go figure.
Friends: I’ve recently been trying to reach out to some people, but all of us seem busy. I am lucky to have a few of my close friends so geographically close. It is esp. nice to hang out people who enjoy colorful conversation, or bring their boyfriends along after the art museum
Economy: Okay, so I finally stopped freaking out. Everything is going to be fine. I’ve cut my credit card bill IN HALF for the past three months and you know what? My life really isn’t that different.
Vacations: VA trip in May! Shore all summer! Ireland next year with Boyfriend!
Career Plans: I’ve had a really long thought process and lots of talks to decide what I want to do with my life. At this moment, I plan to start looking for a new outpatient specialty job in January 2010. After securing a job, I plan to start applying for PhD. programs in either Education or Nursing- haven’t quite decided yet. If I get in, I’m thinking that I’ll defer for a year or so. In the meantime, I want to get a second job teaching to make sure that I want to teach.
Life Plans: None on the table at the moment, and probably none for the next three years. I do plan on doing something fun and interesting when I graduate though. Some ideas that I have:
-training for a bike race/taking a bicycle fixing class
-taking a cooking class
-piano lessons
-more belly dancing classes? Maybe a hiphop or pilates class?
On turning 26: I’ve totally stopped freaking out. When I started this blog last year, I was a wreck- how could I be in the middle of my twenties already?! But now that I’m going to be 26, I’m just excited and feel proud- I’m only going to be 26 and I have already accomplished so much. Now if only I could get my PhD. by 32 and I’ll be set ;)
Until next time!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Long Overdue Update
I really haven't updated this in for-ev-er, so I figured today is a day good as any other to do so!
The holidays went by pretty uneventfully, but yet very comfortable. It's nice that, the older I get, it seems the more traditions are formed. It was nice to know that I'd spend Christmas Eve with my immediate family, the way it has been for a few years. And now that a baby is thrown into the mix (a baby!), it makes the family time that more special.
NYE was also relaxing and fun. This year was different than my past few (okay, last SEVEN) NYE's. Instead of enjoying small house parties that I could walk to from my Philly home, I ventured up to Staten Island to hang out with friends of a friend. All in all, it was a wonderfully Mama Mia, Italian filled time. My belly was especially full of it, and now my thighs are, too. Thanks, Mrs. D.
It seems like the holidays came faster than usual this year, and I'm not really surprised that they were over so quickly either. In a way, it was a relief to get back to the daily grind.
But oh baby, the daily grind is now in full force! Grad school starts again this week, and I am already dreading the workload. There are two very hard things about this semester: 1. I am so close to being done in August that I am burnt out after the last 2.5 years, and 2. I really, really, really do not want to be an NP anymore. I do not regret the education or my program up to this point; I feel like I have learned a lot, and that all of my classes have made me a better nurse. And in the end, being a better nurse (being as good a nurse as I can be) is really my end goal.
That being said, it now seems pointless that I started a degree that I do not want to use, something that has cost me so much time, money and effort expended during the prime of my twenties. And because I have no drive to use the degree, I am never going to make that time back or get a payoff from it.
So this leaves me with two options: to finish the degree or not to finish the degree. It seems so silly not to finish it at this point; it is really only 28 weeks until I am finished. And saying it like that, rather than saying that I have 36 papers due and that I have to work six 12 hour shifts a week from now till August, makes it a lot easier to think about and get through.
In the end, I know that I am going to finish. I know that my life is going to suck for the next 28 weeks. And I know that, at the end of this all on August 6th, I am going to be so happy that I am done and unable to remember a time when I did not want to finish. Because I know this, I know that I can and will finish my degree.
My plans for after the degree? Take the exam, pass, and then finally relax. Faith willing.
So, my dear friends, I am off. Let's hope these 72 hour work weeks aren't as bad as I'm making them out to be!
The holidays went by pretty uneventfully, but yet very comfortable. It's nice that, the older I get, it seems the more traditions are formed. It was nice to know that I'd spend Christmas Eve with my immediate family, the way it has been for a few years. And now that a baby is thrown into the mix (a baby!), it makes the family time that more special.
NYE was also relaxing and fun. This year was different than my past few (okay, last SEVEN) NYE's. Instead of enjoying small house parties that I could walk to from my Philly home, I ventured up to Staten Island to hang out with friends of a friend. All in all, it was a wonderfully Mama Mia, Italian filled time. My belly was especially full of it, and now my thighs are, too. Thanks, Mrs. D.
It seems like the holidays came faster than usual this year, and I'm not really surprised that they were over so quickly either. In a way, it was a relief to get back to the daily grind.
But oh baby, the daily grind is now in full force! Grad school starts again this week, and I am already dreading the workload. There are two very hard things about this semester: 1. I am so close to being done in August that I am burnt out after the last 2.5 years, and 2. I really, really, really do not want to be an NP anymore. I do not regret the education or my program up to this point; I feel like I have learned a lot, and that all of my classes have made me a better nurse. And in the end, being a better nurse (being as good a nurse as I can be) is really my end goal.
That being said, it now seems pointless that I started a degree that I do not want to use, something that has cost me so much time, money and effort expended during the prime of my twenties. And because I have no drive to use the degree, I am never going to make that time back or get a payoff from it.
So this leaves me with two options: to finish the degree or not to finish the degree. It seems so silly not to finish it at this point; it is really only 28 weeks until I am finished. And saying it like that, rather than saying that I have 36 papers due and that I have to work six 12 hour shifts a week from now till August, makes it a lot easier to think about and get through.
In the end, I know that I am going to finish. I know that my life is going to suck for the next 28 weeks. And I know that, at the end of this all on August 6th, I am going to be so happy that I am done and unable to remember a time when I did not want to finish. Because I know this, I know that I can and will finish my degree.
My plans for after the degree? Take the exam, pass, and then finally relax. Faith willing.
So, my dear friends, I am off. Let's hope these 72 hour work weeks aren't as bad as I'm making them out to be!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Weekend Update
In an attempt to avoid studying at any cost, let’s have a weekend update!
Last Friday I had the pleasure of being my cousin’s confirmation sponsor. It was really an honor, and the ceremony was very nice. My aunt (Cioci) hosted an awesome after-party with great food and fun- we had a bunch of sacrilegious but entertaining religious-related games. Honestly, my relatives are so creative: throwing coins into a poor box, bursting balloons with a flame pin to get out of “Hell”, rice bowl races, playing "Name That Hymn". Fun, relaxing, and nice to see family I haven’t seen in a while.
Just as nice was spending the day in Princeton showing MT around before the ceremony. I had forgotten what a connection I have to this other Ivy town. Not only do my parents still work and own land there, I went to grade school there for nine years.
Because MT still lives where he grew up, I think he takes for granted how familiar everything is to him. By showing him Princeton from my point of view (aka, all my childhood memories), it helps us understand each other better. Plus, as we talk about the future (the 5 years away future), it helps him realize what a sacrifice I’ll be making moving to a suburb near him (he needs a volunteer fire dept, but that means I have to leave my center city condo and will be taken out of the familiar -- again).
Saturday/Sunday was spent meandering around Center City. After a delicious breakfast in Fairmount (French Toast with nutella and bananas, almost orgasmic), we visited MT’s aunt and uncle who live near Rittenhouse. They’re very interesting, traveling people, and their stories were a riot. The night was capped off my a Korean place, which was honestly my first Korean food. Unfortunately, I wasn’t a fan- so to wipe that taste out, we got a Whole Foods cake. Amazing!
I’m getting really excited for the upcoming holidays. I can’t wait to see everyone I’ve been missing! And moreso, I can't wait for everyone to meet the love of my life, Sligo, at some point!
Last Friday I had the pleasure of being my cousin’s confirmation sponsor. It was really an honor, and the ceremony was very nice. My aunt (Cioci) hosted an awesome after-party with great food and fun- we had a bunch of sacrilegious but entertaining religious-related games. Honestly, my relatives are so creative: throwing coins into a poor box, bursting balloons with a flame pin to get out of “Hell”, rice bowl races, playing "Name That Hymn". Fun, relaxing, and nice to see family I haven’t seen in a while.
Just as nice was spending the day in Princeton showing MT around before the ceremony. I had forgotten what a connection I have to this other Ivy town. Not only do my parents still work and own land there, I went to grade school there for nine years.
Because MT still lives where he grew up, I think he takes for granted how familiar everything is to him. By showing him Princeton from my point of view (aka, all my childhood memories), it helps us understand each other better. Plus, as we talk about the future (the 5 years away future), it helps him realize what a sacrifice I’ll be making moving to a suburb near him (he needs a volunteer fire dept, but that means I have to leave my center city condo and will be taken out of the familiar -- again).
Saturday/Sunday was spent meandering around Center City. After a delicious breakfast in Fairmount (French Toast with nutella and bananas, almost orgasmic), we visited MT’s aunt and uncle who live near Rittenhouse. They’re very interesting, traveling people, and their stories were a riot. The night was capped off my a Korean place, which was honestly my first Korean food. Unfortunately, I wasn’t a fan- so to wipe that taste out, we got a Whole Foods cake. Amazing!
I’m getting really excited for the upcoming holidays. I can’t wait to see everyone I’ve been missing! And moreso, I can't wait for everyone to meet the love of my life, Sligo, at some point!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Winter Blues
Winter is here, and now, everything that comes with it. Ugh! I know that it's partially genetic and physiologic (and probably psychological, too) but every time it gets cold a couple things happen.
First, I start fuh-reeezing. Freezing leads to over eating. Over eating leads to getting fat. Getting fat gets me depressed and despondent. And that gets me no where, other than more of all those things.
Second, this is the first time that my hands have actually started to really, really hurt with the cold weather. It seems silly, but it's so true. The worst is when I have to bike to work... I keep hot packs in my gloves, but it really doesn't do that much. I'm starting to have trouble texting, typing, and piano-ing now- which really, really scares me.
Third, I start to spend crazy amounts of money that I don't have on useless things that I totally don't need. I blame it on being the Christmas promotions. I guess they work! Also on a money note, I have to turn my heat on to stop from shivering (honestly? my heat is on 68 degrees and I'm still wearing a coat, hat, and gloves).
But I am tired of always being a negative nellie. Seriously- please start calling me out on it! It has gotten out of hand! So here are some positive things about it being winter:
-I get to wear scarves again, and I love scarves!
-my cat is not shedding nearly as much
-getting dark earlier means I go to bed at a reasonable time
-cute hats (esp. my new kanga one- note above, spending money on things I don't need)
-good excuse to have more coffee/hot cocoa (delicious)
-winter means that the next season is spring!
-Christmas/New Years/MLK Jr. Day
-Speaking of Christmas, dressing my cat up in Santa hats
...and off to Target!
First, I start fuh-reeezing. Freezing leads to over eating. Over eating leads to getting fat. Getting fat gets me depressed and despondent. And that gets me no where, other than more of all those things.
Second, this is the first time that my hands have actually started to really, really hurt with the cold weather. It seems silly, but it's so true. The worst is when I have to bike to work... I keep hot packs in my gloves, but it really doesn't do that much. I'm starting to have trouble texting, typing, and piano-ing now- which really, really scares me.
Third, I start to spend crazy amounts of money that I don't have on useless things that I totally don't need. I blame it on being the Christmas promotions. I guess they work! Also on a money note, I have to turn my heat on to stop from shivering (honestly? my heat is on 68 degrees and I'm still wearing a coat, hat, and gloves).
But I am tired of always being a negative nellie. Seriously- please start calling me out on it! It has gotten out of hand! So here are some positive things about it being winter:
-I get to wear scarves again, and I love scarves!
-my cat is not shedding nearly as much
-getting dark earlier means I go to bed at a reasonable time
-cute hats (esp. my new kanga one- note above, spending money on things I don't need)
-good excuse to have more coffee/hot cocoa (delicious)
-winter means that the next season is spring!
-Christmas/New Years/MLK Jr. Day
-Speaking of Christmas, dressing my cat up in Santa hats
...and off to Target!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Halloween Weekend
Halloween was a complete disaster. I feel totally guilty for making my friends come downtown from the NE/DelCo/SoJo, but I thought it’d be worth it. I banked on them having a good time at the bar I went to the year for Halloween. Well, when we get to the bar, we’re not allowed in because it’s a private party. And this is after I called the day before and asked about their Halloween specials! Why didn’t they just tell me when I called?! Anyway, I did enjoy dressing up in my Amish bonnet and hanging out with the girls, but I do feel terribly guilty that the night ended up being so quiet. (Although I personally blame the Phillies Parade- it kind of wore everyone out, and most people were still in Phillies gear at the bar instead of costumes. But I guess I shouldn’t complain, the parade was awesome!)
The weekend got a little better after Friday, and I celebrated my anniversary. We went to a Moroccan restaurant and it was delicious- baba ganoush and all. Spent the night just walking around downtown with some gelato as a night-cap. All in all, a nice night.
It’s funny to me that one year later, sure, MT and I still go on dates, but the dates are so different. We used to go to movies, and now we go to Home Depot. We used to go out to nice restaurants, and now we get excited about Taco Bell (probably a little too excited… volcano taco, anyone?). But the nice thing is that I wouldn’t want to change a thing. Even though we won’t live together for another three years, it still feels like we’re a real, grown up couple.
In other news, I’m just hanging on in grad school. I need to get B’s for my job to pay for my classes, and for the first time ever, I am nervous about the rule. If I don’t get B’s, I will be out $8000 that I totally can’t afford/don’t even have/never planned for. I am also slightly nervous about my clinical sites. I find out the week before Christmas where I will have to go for the following nine months of my life- I just hope they are not to far away. I can’t imagine driving 2 hours three times a week for nine months!
The weekend got a little better after Friday, and I celebrated my anniversary. We went to a Moroccan restaurant and it was delicious- baba ganoush and all. Spent the night just walking around downtown with some gelato as a night-cap. All in all, a nice night.
It’s funny to me that one year later, sure, MT and I still go on dates, but the dates are so different. We used to go to movies, and now we go to Home Depot. We used to go out to nice restaurants, and now we get excited about Taco Bell (probably a little too excited… volcano taco, anyone?). But the nice thing is that I wouldn’t want to change a thing. Even though we won’t live together for another three years, it still feels like we’re a real, grown up couple.
In other news, I’m just hanging on in grad school. I need to get B’s for my job to pay for my classes, and for the first time ever, I am nervous about the rule. If I don’t get B’s, I will be out $8000 that I totally can’t afford/don’t even have/never planned for. I am also slightly nervous about my clinical sites. I find out the week before Christmas where I will have to go for the following nine months of my life- I just hope they are not to far away. I can’t imagine driving 2 hours three times a week for nine months!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Tampa! Awesome
YESS! TAMPA BAY! Now we might have a phighting chance! (Terrible joke, sorry...)
Wow, I totally haven’t updated in a long time. What a good time to update…such a good weekend, and now it is finally coming to a close!…tear.
Started off with celebrating Eliza’s birthday, at a trendy Mexican restaurant- after getting out of work 4 hours early!- with some delicious deserts and people.
Next day I get to actually see MT for the entire day! We go to a wedding for one of his friends, but luckily some of my friends are there too. The wedding was in the top five that I’ve ever been to: it was a big wedding, and by the end of the night, there was no one sitting down- and there was no room left on the dance floor! It was so classy, pretty, fun, yet relaxing and entertaining. Overall, just a great time. It was nice going out after the wedding, too. I have to admit- it was the most fun that I ever had as a designated driver, haha.
Sunday was also a good day. Even though MT and I were supposed to study for 50% of the day, we actually didn’t study at all…oops. But it was so nice out, and it was great to enjoy the nice weather before it gets too cold. Went to a new brick oven pizza place, and had delicious wings/pizza. Got to see my cutest-baby-ever nephew. Watched TV, played with the cat. Just a nice relaxing day overall. How often does this happen now?
And holy crap, when did it get so cold out?!
Wow, I totally haven’t updated in a long time. What a good time to update…such a good weekend, and now it is finally coming to a close!…tear.
Started off with celebrating Eliza’s birthday, at a trendy Mexican restaurant- after getting out of work 4 hours early!- with some delicious deserts and people.
Next day I get to actually see MT for the entire day! We go to a wedding for one of his friends, but luckily some of my friends are there too. The wedding was in the top five that I’ve ever been to: it was a big wedding, and by the end of the night, there was no one sitting down- and there was no room left on the dance floor! It was so classy, pretty, fun, yet relaxing and entertaining. Overall, just a great time. It was nice going out after the wedding, too. I have to admit- it was the most fun that I ever had as a designated driver, haha.
Sunday was also a good day. Even though MT and I were supposed to study for 50% of the day, we actually didn’t study at all…oops. But it was so nice out, and it was great to enjoy the nice weather before it gets too cold. Went to a new brick oven pizza place, and had delicious wings/pizza. Got to see my cutest-baby-ever nephew. Watched TV, played with the cat. Just a nice relaxing day overall. How often does this happen now?
And holy crap, when did it get so cold out?!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Priorities...
Since I have turned 25, I have had trouble getting my priorities straight. Before, priorities used to be easy. When I was little, my priority was getting home on time from school to watch TailSpin. When I was a teenager, my priority was avoiding my parents as much as possible. As a college student, I did work so I could eventually get a good job. Once I got a job, my priority was to enjoy myself as much as possible.
But now it is a different game. I am no longer in my early 20’s; I am now in my mid-20’s. And this leads to a whole new slew of possible priorities.
Should I put my job first? After all, it is my career. But school is also part of my career; should that go first? And what about my health? Shouldn't I be seeing the doctor, having lab tests, and exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, 3-5 times a week?
And what about the rest of my life: shouldn’t my family, friends, and boyfriend have spots in there too? What about my new interest in yoga and cooking? What about blogging? What about those stacks of British chick lit I have to get through?!
Although it is impossible to accomplish everything, everything must be done- which makes prioritizing not as fun. The nature of prioritizing is realizing that something, something, will have to fall by the wayside. And now, at the young age of a mature 25, what will that be? I’m scared that life will always be this way from now on. I am scared that all those “I want to’s” will be replaced with “I should’s” and “I have to’s.”
But please life, give me a break! I really need to get to all that British chick lit!
But now it is a different game. I am no longer in my early 20’s; I am now in my mid-20’s. And this leads to a whole new slew of possible priorities.
Should I put my job first? After all, it is my career. But school is also part of my career; should that go first? And what about my health? Shouldn't I be seeing the doctor, having lab tests, and exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, 3-5 times a week?
And what about the rest of my life: shouldn’t my family, friends, and boyfriend have spots in there too? What about my new interest in yoga and cooking? What about blogging? What about those stacks of British chick lit I have to get through?!
Although it is impossible to accomplish everything, everything must be done- which makes prioritizing not as fun. The nature of prioritizing is realizing that something, something, will have to fall by the wayside. And now, at the young age of a mature 25, what will that be? I’m scared that life will always be this way from now on. I am scared that all those “I want to’s” will be replaced with “I should’s” and “I have to’s.”
But please life, give me a break! I really need to get to all that British chick lit!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Recent Obsessions
1.Yoga. So I went today for the first time to a yoga class, and oh my goodness! I totally got my butt kicked!! But in a good way. Even though my back is sore, I dripped about 4 liters of sweat, and I don’t think I can walk for three days, I’m still happy that I went. There was even an Olympian in my class! A woman’s rower that actually lives in my complex. Who knew? The other funny thing about yoga: some guy I briefly dated was there.
2. Touch-screen gym equipment. I just renewed my gym subscription to Penn (cough, haven’t been to the gym since February, cough), and I am totally amazed! All the machines are brand new touch-screens that let me plug in an ipod, use a usb drive to record all my workouts, and gives me a personal electronic coach to encourage me. It’s really awesome.
3. The color orange. It’s amazing- it looks good on scarves, Flyers’ jerseys, and pumpkins. It’s not really stuck to one season, and better yet: I think I look pretty darn good in it, too.
4. Scrubs, the TV show. I’ve started watching all the old seasons. Why didn’t someone get me into this hilariousness years ago? It’s so classic! I’ve totally been missing out!
5. T-shirts with funny sayings. Okay, maybe I should have outgrown funny shirts ten years ago in high school, but I think they’re just so cute! Especially with the change of season; I can totally layer them over long sleeves and add a scarf….
6. Fall. About damn time… I’m tired of sweating my non-existent balls off.
7. Keurig Coffee brewer. There is absolutely nothing as amazing at 6am: waking up, and having a beautiful cup of coffee, freshly brewed, two minutes later.
8. Saying “Dude.” I am not quite sure why I keep saying it, but I really need to stop… especially after I called my boss Dude last week. Not. Cool.
9. Sligo. Sorry to say it again, but I basically have the best cat in the world!
10. Wanting a house. So, even though I have a condo, I have recently been craving a house like candy. Suddenly I want a garage, a backyard, a dining room… at least I’m over the baby thing, haha. I probably should cut back on the search online though, because I keep getting emails from realtors. Oh boy.
Unit next time!
2. Touch-screen gym equipment. I just renewed my gym subscription to Penn (cough, haven’t been to the gym since February, cough), and I am totally amazed! All the machines are brand new touch-screens that let me plug in an ipod, use a usb drive to record all my workouts, and gives me a personal electronic coach to encourage me. It’s really awesome.
3. The color orange. It’s amazing- it looks good on scarves, Flyers’ jerseys, and pumpkins. It’s not really stuck to one season, and better yet: I think I look pretty darn good in it, too.
4. Scrubs, the TV show. I’ve started watching all the old seasons. Why didn’t someone get me into this hilariousness years ago? It’s so classic! I’ve totally been missing out!
5. T-shirts with funny sayings. Okay, maybe I should have outgrown funny shirts ten years ago in high school, but I think they’re just so cute! Especially with the change of season; I can totally layer them over long sleeves and add a scarf….
6. Fall. About damn time… I’m tired of sweating my non-existent balls off.
7. Keurig Coffee brewer. There is absolutely nothing as amazing at 6am: waking up, and having a beautiful cup of coffee, freshly brewed, two minutes later.
8. Saying “Dude.” I am not quite sure why I keep saying it, but I really need to stop… especially after I called my boss Dude last week. Not. Cool.
9. Sligo. Sorry to say it again, but I basically have the best cat in the world!
10. Wanting a house. So, even though I have a condo, I have recently been craving a house like candy. Suddenly I want a garage, a backyard, a dining room… at least I’m over the baby thing, haha. I probably should cut back on the search online though, because I keep getting emails from realtors. Oh boy.
Unit next time!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Moving on... Down?
That's not how the song goes. It should be moving on up. Unfortunately, that's not the situation with my boyfriend and me.
I recently asked the Martster to move in with me. Let me preface: MT is moving back home next June so that he can go to school full time for a year. At the same time, his grandmother and his sister are also moving back in with his parents. That means that there's not even a room for MT to live in except in the basement. Also, MT can't afford his car while in school, so he'll be taking the train from the NE to Center City every day.
What's that, you say? It'd make more sense for MT to live with his gf who actually lives in Center City? And it'd prevent him from living next to a washing machine? And his gf won't have to drive to the NE to see him- and hang out at his parents' house?
The funny part is, I brought this up to him again tonight, and he actually said, "You asked me to move in with you?" Oh boy...
In the end, his reasoning is that he'd feel like he's free-loading. Relationships are give and take, but I'll respect his reasoning. He's already brought up where he wants to live when we do move in together (independently and before I asked about this). That makes me think that I'm not getting played. We get along so easily and perfectly that I'm not going to let this one thing ruin our fun. I mean, I'd rather this than not be allowed to eat cheese*.
*BF's in the past have imposed this rule.
I recently asked the Martster to move in with me. Let me preface: MT is moving back home next June so that he can go to school full time for a year. At the same time, his grandmother and his sister are also moving back in with his parents. That means that there's not even a room for MT to live in except in the basement. Also, MT can't afford his car while in school, so he'll be taking the train from the NE to Center City every day.
What's that, you say? It'd make more sense for MT to live with his gf who actually lives in Center City? And it'd prevent him from living next to a washing machine? And his gf won't have to drive to the NE to see him- and hang out at his parents' house?
The funny part is, I brought this up to him again tonight, and he actually said, "You asked me to move in with you?" Oh boy...
In the end, his reasoning is that he'd feel like he's free-loading. Relationships are give and take, but I'll respect his reasoning. He's already brought up where he wants to live when we do move in together (independently and before I asked about this). That makes me think that I'm not getting played. We get along so easily and perfectly that I'm not going to let this one thing ruin our fun. I mean, I'd rather this than not be allowed to eat cheese*.
*BF's in the past have imposed this rule.
Career Questions
As it stands, I am a PACU nurse. That means that I recover patients from anesthesia after any sort of surgery (and I never knew there were so many!). It also stands that I should be graduating from Nurse Practitioner school August 2009. In fact, I only have pharm, technology, and three clinicals left!
So this is all well and good, but I still feel like I should have some ICU experience before I actually become an NP. If I never go to an ICU, I'll probably regret it for the rest of my life. The problem is that PACU offers me a sweet schedule and is not terribly stressful; the next three semesters are going to be super stressful to get through. Do I really want a tough job on top of a tough school semester? Do I really want to go back to working every third weekend, every other holiday, and night shift for half the year?
Maybe, if I want the experience. With ICU knowledge, it'd be easier to get an NP job. In fact, an NP with ICU experience will always get hired before me, with just my floor and recovery experience.
So I'm stuck. Right now, I figure I'll stay where I am, and then go to an ICU after I graduate next August. Besides, I have to stay at my hospital in order for them to pay back my last year of tuition. The only problem there is that an ICU may not hire me for just a year or two (it costs about $32,000 to train a new employee). Blimey.
At least I'm only 25. But holy crap, I'm 25 and old. Agh!
So this is all well and good, but I still feel like I should have some ICU experience before I actually become an NP. If I never go to an ICU, I'll probably regret it for the rest of my life. The problem is that PACU offers me a sweet schedule and is not terribly stressful; the next three semesters are going to be super stressful to get through. Do I really want a tough job on top of a tough school semester? Do I really want to go back to working every third weekend, every other holiday, and night shift for half the year?
Maybe, if I want the experience. With ICU knowledge, it'd be easier to get an NP job. In fact, an NP with ICU experience will always get hired before me, with just my floor and recovery experience.
So I'm stuck. Right now, I figure I'll stay where I am, and then go to an ICU after I graduate next August. Besides, I have to stay at my hospital in order for them to pay back my last year of tuition. The only problem there is that an ICU may not hire me for just a year or two (it costs about $32,000 to train a new employee). Blimey.
At least I'm only 25. But holy crap, I'm 25 and old. Agh!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Baby Bug
If you ask me, I'll admit it: I have totally been bitten by the Baby Bug! Those wacky female hormones are kicking in and sending out smoke signals, begging for a baby of my own. Of course, being 25 and unmarried, I am totally, TOTALLY not ready to have kids yet.
In order to curb my Baby Bug then, I recently watched my godson Lukey Pants (at least, that's what I call him, and will call him till he's 16 and very embarrassed by it). Luke is absolutely a wonderful baby! He's cute, he doesn't cry too much, and he's very healthy and playful. Sure, he spits up and grabs my hair, but isn't that just adorable?
I took Luke out in one of those baby carrier things, where you strap the baby on the front of you like a papoose. Can I tell you? The people of Rittenhouse Square treated me entirely differently! Suddenly, cars were waiting for me to cross the street. Women wearing Jimmy Choo's were polite to me. The people sitting outside at Parc (Steven Starr's new restaurant on the square) cooed at this baby. How wonderful for society to act like this to a baby! Maybe there is still some good in the world...
So for now, my Baby Bug is at bay thanks to the cutest nephew ever. But I better get some buns in the oven within the next decade, or there'll be some words!
Also, on a complete side note, I enjoyed the looks from pregnant women I got. Clearly, they thought I was the mother, and clearly, they thought I looked good for just having a baby. Let's hope I get that look again some day, and next time when the baby's actually mine!
ps- please, no one mention this in front of marty, i don't need him thinking i'm desperate for a fetus!
In order to curb my Baby Bug then, I recently watched my godson Lukey Pants (at least, that's what I call him, and will call him till he's 16 and very embarrassed by it). Luke is absolutely a wonderful baby! He's cute, he doesn't cry too much, and he's very healthy and playful. Sure, he spits up and grabs my hair, but isn't that just adorable?
I took Luke out in one of those baby carrier things, where you strap the baby on the front of you like a papoose. Can I tell you? The people of Rittenhouse Square treated me entirely differently! Suddenly, cars were waiting for me to cross the street. Women wearing Jimmy Choo's were polite to me. The people sitting outside at Parc (Steven Starr's new restaurant on the square) cooed at this baby. How wonderful for society to act like this to a baby! Maybe there is still some good in the world...
So for now, my Baby Bug is at bay thanks to the cutest nephew ever. But I better get some buns in the oven within the next decade, or there'll be some words!
Also, on a complete side note, I enjoyed the looks from pregnant women I got. Clearly, they thought I was the mother, and clearly, they thought I looked good for just having a baby. Let's hope I get that look again some day, and next time when the baby's actually mine!
ps- please, no one mention this in front of marty, i don't need him thinking i'm desperate for a fetus!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Mind your own... bikini's wax?
Last week, I decided to add to my list of reasons that I am a woman. So far I have covered the whole ability to have children, lots of estrogen (even hcg in po form), and although tiny, boobs. I figured it's been a while since I've added anything to my female repoitoire, and went for the big guns. No, I'm not pregnant- but in case I was, at least now I'm prepared.
I gave myself a bikini wax at home.
I'm not quite sure that anyone could ever, ever, EVER prepare for the pain and suffering that is one with the wax job. In fact, on a scale of 1-10, it was the worst pain I could ever imagine and at least a 17. The bad part? You're inflicting the pain upon yourself. The worst part? Once you start, you really can't stop- unless you want your new nickname to be patches.
For everyone that has never done a wax at home or never plans to (my advice), there are two options. The directions tell me that a heart/triangle shape is the "american" and the landing strip is the "european" style of waxing. Who knew? We settle in a different country, and suddenly I need different pubic hair.
You heat up the wax in the microwave, apply it with a stick to a 2x2 area, and then immediate rip it off in the opposite direction of how you applied the wax. In one word: ow.
Another word of advice on the subject would be to follow all the directions. Apparently, you're supposed to use some kind of soothing oil, test the heat of the wax on your wrist, not let your cat stick his nose in the wax, and not ride your bike to work the next day (and not to work with underwear on at all for the next three days).
I have to say though, despite all the pain, I do feel more like a lady (although posting this blog entry probably deems otherwise) and the skin is silky smooth (ie, like a baby's bottom). In the future, I will be willing to pay the big bucks for some lady in some sketchy salon in the northeast to torture me. Bite block and wrist restraints included.
I gave myself a bikini wax at home.
I'm not quite sure that anyone could ever, ever, EVER prepare for the pain and suffering that is one with the wax job. In fact, on a scale of 1-10, it was the worst pain I could ever imagine and at least a 17. The bad part? You're inflicting the pain upon yourself. The worst part? Once you start, you really can't stop- unless you want your new nickname to be patches.
For everyone that has never done a wax at home or never plans to (my advice), there are two options. The directions tell me that a heart/triangle shape is the "american" and the landing strip is the "european" style of waxing. Who knew? We settle in a different country, and suddenly I need different pubic hair.
You heat up the wax in the microwave, apply it with a stick to a 2x2 area, and then immediate rip it off in the opposite direction of how you applied the wax. In one word: ow.
Another word of advice on the subject would be to follow all the directions. Apparently, you're supposed to use some kind of soothing oil, test the heat of the wax on your wrist, not let your cat stick his nose in the wax, and not ride your bike to work the next day (and not to work with underwear on at all for the next three days).
I have to say though, despite all the pain, I do feel more like a lady (although posting this blog entry probably deems otherwise) and the skin is silky smooth (ie, like a baby's bottom). In the future, I will be willing to pay the big bucks for some lady in some sketchy salon in the northeast to torture me. Bite block and wrist restraints included.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Facebook: Over It
Ah, Facebook, MySpace's little brother that ended up more successful and better looking. Since joining Facebook as a senior in college, it seems to have become a staple in my life, to the point where I try to check it at work, at home, and when I am on vacay at the shore. Almost obsessively.
Well, no more is this so. With the advent of "applications," I've really just become more annoyed than anything else. No, I don't want to be a Zombie, have a garden patch, or travel the Oregon Trail with you- especially if I haven't talked to you in >4 years. And no, I don't feel the need to a have a bumper sticker wall (although I admit, they are utterly entertaining), or a Super Wall where you can leave graffiti messages for me (I live in Philly, you can do that on my building).
Does anyone else remember a summer ago, before the change to the "News Feed"? Do you remember that when you logged on to Facebook, you just ended up on your home page? In a way, by adding the News Feed, it took away the fun that could go with facebook: seeing who could dig up the newest text-worthy gossip first.
So, I guess my hot-and-heavy relationship, that I gave up for 40 days back during Lent, has really cooled off. Don't get me wrong, I still check facebook every day- just not obsessively so.
And don't worry, if I find out something good, I'll be sure to still text you immediately.
Well, no more is this so. With the advent of "applications," I've really just become more annoyed than anything else. No, I don't want to be a Zombie, have a garden patch, or travel the Oregon Trail with you- especially if I haven't talked to you in >4 years. And no, I don't feel the need to a have a bumper sticker wall (although I admit, they are utterly entertaining), or a Super Wall where you can leave graffiti messages for me (I live in Philly, you can do that on my building).
Does anyone else remember a summer ago, before the change to the "News Feed"? Do you remember that when you logged on to Facebook, you just ended up on your home page? In a way, by adding the News Feed, it took away the fun that could go with facebook: seeing who could dig up the newest text-worthy gossip first.
So, I guess my hot-and-heavy relationship, that I gave up for 40 days back during Lent, has really cooled off. Don't get me wrong, I still check facebook every day- just not obsessively so.
And don't worry, if I find out something good, I'll be sure to still text you immediately.
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