Miscellany | A beginner, of the older variety
On being an old beginner
Sometimes at my job, I feel like a very late bloomer.
Every single one of my educators and preceptors has been younger than me, sometimes by decades. Several of them could be my children, because they are, in fact, the ages of my children. (!!)
It is an interesting feeling, being a beginner at midlife; while it's the expected state in your first couple of decades of life, it is a less familiar sensation in your fourth decade.
In a recent issue of James Clear's newsletter, he said:
Intelligence isn't just about what you know. It is also the ability to avoid being your own bottleneck.
- If you lack the skills, be willing to look foolish while you learn them.
- If you lack the connections, be courageous enough to reach out and build them.
- If you feel uncertain, be bold enough to figure it out along the way.
Many people have the ability, but they talk themselves out of trying.
And I found this encouraging!
Yes, I'm an older newbie, but I have not let my age be a bottleneck; I've been willing to look foolish, ask questions, and figure it out along the way.
This cornstarch packaging: 10/10
Every time I use my cornstarch, I am reminded of how much I love that it comes in a lidded container vs. that stupid bag-in-a-box situation that is more common.
I have never managed to use the latter without making a mess, so I am wildly appreciative of this container.
It's the small things. 😉
Reminder: do a fridge sweep
Yesterday, I gave my fridge a look-over to find all the odds and ends that needed to be used up.
So today, I'm reminding you to do the same!
Out of sight is out of mind, so go lay eyes on your fridge contents. 😉
Second reminder: it's hard to get to zero food waste
Despite the fact that I have been actively fighting food waste since 2008, I still rarely have a week with absolutely no waste.
And that's because going from 90% waste-free to 100% waste-free requires a disproportional amount of effort.
I have made peace with that because, honestly, if most people on the planet cut their food waste even in half, that would make a tremendous impact.
Close enough is good enough, in this case.
Today is my first day nursing on my own
I have one shift today, and then starting on Halloween day, I'll work five shifts in six days (which is actually my own fault; I scheduled myself this way so I could cover Halloween and the day after, since I don't have small kids!)
Anyway...I'm a little bit nervous.
But I am reminding myself that I have been thoroughly trained. Also, nursing is a team sport; there are always experienced nurses nearby who can help me if I get stuck.
I can do this.
Foolish is exactly the feeling I have when excercising on an calisthenics park. All the guys doing push ups, muscle ups, skin the cat whatnot and I? But then I remind me I am not a 25 year old man (to me they are more like boys) doing this daily, but a 50 year old woman doing this once or twice a week and started only 6 month ago.
And objectively the boys have been very respectful and friendly towards me. So no need to feel foolish. Everybody once was a beginner. And then I go on with excercising.
@Silke, That's how I felt going to the gym last year. I'm in my thirties but was not confident at all and was very out of shape. I'm still not as strong or toned as others there, but I know I belong, and I love seeing my physical strength progress!
@Sophie in Denmark,
Dear Sophie, if would go to the gym, I would expirience the same. Almost all in their twenties and looking muscular like the guys at the calisthenics park.
But I am a bit used to be older, as I work at he University. And also when I was a student, I was the oldest, because I dit not start right out of school but mid twenty. I should be used to it, but I still have to talk silently to myself to reassure me, that it is okay and no need to feel foolish. Having permanent backpain or other pain because of not enough muscle is much more foolish. Let's go!
All the best from Berlin, Silke
I had a big life change in my early thirties; more quarter life, but I still felt like I 'should' have done it in my twenties. I still feel outside others my age at times, so to speak. But life doesn't usually follow a set path and, IMO, the more flexible we are and willing to learn, the more comfortable we will be with curveballs.
My fridge is very small so I don't usually miss things but it was very chaotic in there a couple of months ago and there was a serious ice problem at the back. I kept procrastinating on cleaning it out because I knew it would be a big job but it felt SO good once it was done!
I watched Kiki's Delivery Service last night which I've seen before, but hadn't watched in a long time. I love the message in that film - spoiler alert - that if you have lost your talent or your passion or are basically burnt out, you need to step back, take a breath and trust that your magic will return. Strength requires rest.
@Sophie in Denmark,
Thank you for sharing about rest. So true!
@Heather Mar, It is! I love doing nothing and people find it strange. I need time to intentionally rest.
This quote is me "Many people have the ability, but they talk themselves out of trying."
Thanks, im going to apply for jobs that I have talked myself out off
@Sharyn Lowenkamp, Yay you! What a courageous step. Hope that you have positive results tha lead you to a just-right position. Keep us informed please.
I have that corn starch container! It is so much better than the box. I refill it with the annoying bag in a box kind from Aldi.
@Faith,
I do it simular to you. Except I did not buy cornstarch in a plastic box to begin with. I try to avoid plastic at all means. So the cornstarch in the cardboard goes straight into a glass container.
@Lea, I put my (rarely used, I must admit) cornstarch in a glass container too--in my case, a canning jar. But I think Kristen's right that *any* container is better than the bag in the cardboard box.
@Faith, same here! I was happy to pay extra for the better packaging of the Argo tub but my daughter’s been using corn starch for her “potions” so we’re burning through it faster than usual.
You've got this!
I appreciated the quotation. I'm in the midst of working on my son's transcript, and some of the schools/programs he's interested in need more detail about our little homeschool than my older son's schools needed. I'm feeling uncertain in several ways, and that is leading to stress. The quotation reminded me that it's okay to ask for help to know what's expected. It's okay if I'm not perfect at something I've never done.
Miscelly #1: I work for a large organization that encourages frequent changes in positions-to vastly different roles and cultures . In fact, it was the best way to get promoted. Changing positions every few years makes being a "old beginner" pretty common. Yes, it's uncomfortable, but it sure has helped me develop my professional skills-to which I'm extremely grateful!
Miscelly #2: I will be buying that corn start container. What a novel concept!
I changed careers at 35 to education and it was an amazing journey. Now retired I have absolutely no regrets. You've got this!
You'll do great being on your own because you'll still go ask for help when you feel you need it 🙂 Congrats on making it all the way to today in your journey of achieving your dream! It was hard work and you didn't give up!
You are kind! You are smart! You are capable! Hope you have a day filled with random moments of joy, laughter, and learn one new thing!
Whoo hoo! Today is the result of the dream you’ve had for years! All the best to you and of course, your patients will love you!
@Addy, I agree completely. As always, Kristen has got this. Best of luck to her and all the other "late bloomers" in the Commentariat. After all, don't we gardeners appreciate fall flowers as much as spring flowers?
@A. Marie, I am at the opposite end of Kristen. For YEARS, I was the youngest on my team (and through seven business sectors. And I've done well over the years when my department was eliminated). Not any more, I am officially the DOL - designated old lady. I've earned my stripes, Kristen will too.
This is a timely post. I know that you can do this. Age often brings wisdom and determination. This weekend I read the inspirational story of Grandma Gatewood who hiked the entire length of the 2100+ mile Appalachian Trail in 1955 at the age of 67. She had had 11 children and was a domestic abuse survivor. Although she eventually divorced her husband, she craved freedom and solitude. One day, after telling her children that she was going for a walk, she set off on a 146-day journey wearing a pair of keds and caring a homemade knapsack.
This story has become legend among through hikers of all ages. This women, with everything stacked against her, managed to complete this incredible journey of determination and hope. I feel much better about getting older now.
Good luck, Kristen. You've got this!
@Bee, I loved that book!!!
@Bee, that book was SO GOOD! And that woman was remarkable, such a survivor, so very tough.
@Bee, thanks for the book recommendation! " ... told her children she was going for a walk ..." - love that.
@Bee, Grandma Gatewood, so loved and respected. We attempted to hike the Trail from MD. to Maine the summer of 72. That was the summer the race was on to be in the first 100 thru hikers to finish. That was not us, we were just having an adventure. The worst hurricane to hit the east coast of the decade rained us out in northen PA. We took off hitchhiking thru New England, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Cape Breton Island. Hiked parts of the trail again in New England heading north and returning. The experienced hikers had wonderful Grandma Gatewood stories.
Heard her name at least once a day. : ) <3
@AZ Lynn, I love that you tried to hike the Trail. My middle son hiked the AT in 2017. He was the least outdoorsy of my children and I was terribly worried about him. However, it was life changing journey. He was the first to tell me about Grandma Gatewood.
@Bee, I remember when you wrote about his adventure. Can't believe that was eight years ago.
@Bee, What a wonderful legacy and accomplishment for you DS! It is a life changing experience, even shortened by a hurricane! lol
The miscellany for me today is that this is the second week in a row I have worked a Monday and I always have to psyche myself up for it...its not terrible, its just noisier, with more employees coming and going in the work area. I so love working by myself! Yes, sometimes imaging is a team job, but also we have such a mix of people and personalities don't always mix...
Also. I am a preceptor at work and older than everyone I have ever preceptored! Ha! In my department, three of us are in our 60's. I think it gives us greater clout. (: People naturally assume that this silver hair = experience. And I mean, they're not wrong. World experience counts for a lot.
Started my second career in my late thirties. Also in the medical field, occupational therapy. This field had been suggested to me way back in high school but it didn’t penetrate my adolescent mind, lol.
As in nursing when you transfer to different fields ( med/surg, trauma, ICU, rehab, peds) of practice new skills are required but they do come. I’ve been lucky in that all my positions were in facilities with multiple levels of experience and learning/teaching was the norm.
This past week was packed very full with work and activities. In consequence, I am now extremely tired and also uncomfortably sore. That is because I haven't been running in a week. When I spend more time sitting in chairs--or on bleachers--my legs get so tight it makes it feel like my hips hurt, even though it's not actually my hips. So, this week, back to running.
Also this week, back to sitting on the floor. Sitting cross-legged stretches those muscles the best, and I typically sit that way in the mornings (right now, hi!) when I'm drinking my coffee. When I first sit on the floor, I can only sit with my legs stretched out in front of me. Eventually I can sit cross-legged--if uncomfortably--if I'm leaning back pretty far so the inner thigh muscles aren't pulling. And then they stretch out and I can sit normally with my legs crossed.
Thank goodness I don't have to work today. Not only will I be home to rest and harvest the rest of my garden before tomorrow night's expected first freeze, but being at school subbing last week was one of the things that got me all stiff. I spent all my time there either sitting in an office chair or standing on a concrete floor. And not going for a run. No good.
It seems to be my current role in life to be the Universal Mother for lost boys that keep coming my way. Or maybe they were always there, but now I'm more aware of them. In any case, these are all boys--or varying ages--who are hurting and searching for something they can't even identify. Most of them are coming from various difficult family situations. Not even outright abuse most of the time, but there is pain there from these boys nonetheless. I feed all of them, listen to the ones who want to talk, and spend a lot of time praying for them. It's sometimes frustrating and often saddening, because I can't fix what seems to be an epidemic of lost boys, but I still have hope they'll all figure it out.
@kristin @ going country, Pigeon pose is great for hips, especially after running!
@kristin @ going country, I don't have these lost boys coming to me personally, but I am definitely seeing this epidemic around me and through what my sons are telling me about fellows they come in contact with.
@kristin @ going country, bless you for being there for them. It's good to see a positive had rocking the cradle.
@kristin @ going country,
What a blessing that you are available for those boys! It's not often we get handed a chance to make a difference in someone's life like that. They will always remember you with gratitude, that's for sure.
@kristin @ going country, Your care for the lost boys is one of the most heart warming thing I have come across in a long time. And, sorely needed at this time. You really go, girl!
@kristin @ going country, you have a much needed ministry going to all those lost boys. There is a definite lack of fathers and a lack of parenting in general these days. (“These days” is old people talk—I am Old People now!) I see a real loss of masculinity in young males, zero confidence, lots of fear. Bless you for helping those guys!
@kristin @ going country,
I am the collector of 20 & 21 yrs old man/boys it seems. I had 4 @ family dinner last night. 2 of them are being told to fly the coop so to speak. It is my firm belief that the lockdown during the most transformational time in youth development is a huge factor. I like to visit with them one on one, today we are splitting and stacking wood he will get paid for his time and I will gently interview him as we work. The two friends of the nephew working for the farm this summer brought them to me for help. Keep up the good works, one lamb at a time!
@kristin @ going country,
Re: the lost boys
Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ.
Will be praying for you.
Remember, the book of James in the New Testament says: if anyone needs wisdom, let him ask God for it and it will be granted. I'm sure you have wisdom, and you've got this. I'm sure you are a blessing to those boys.
@Blue Gate Farmgirl, and @kristin @ going country, blessings on you both for your work with your "lost boys."
@kristin @ going country, it’s so interesting- I’m the opposite of you; I tend to sit criss-cross applesauce all the time, even when I’m in my fancy work chair. I don’t think it’s good for my knees but I’m always trying to bend my legs toward me vs. stretching them out. Sitting with my legs straight in front of me is a challenge!
@Blue Gate Farmgirl, Yes, manual labor--or sports--is really the best way to get them talking without them realizing they are. It's like their bodies and mouths move in tandem. 🙂 I love that you have the opportunity and the willingness to provide both the physical and emotional outlet for young men. They for sure need both.
@kristin @ going country, mine was lost girls - one slipped away - sad divorce, sad, sad, and even MORE sad mother - never found out about the father. Father who may or may not have been sad but mother poisoned the daughter. Kiddo figured it out the hard way unfortunately.
My experience just reiterates my firm belief that not all women (or men) should have children. They are A LOT of work if you are committed to raising a child to be a productive part of society.
All I can say is while you may not think you are making much of a difference, kids remember. While better half had no clear recollection of inviting (any buying) dinner for an assorted conclave of older kiddo's college friends, one friend did remember. This long ago meal resulted in a nice conversation at kiddo's wedding reception, six years later. Don't under estimate the small stuff.
@Kristin Going Country and @Blue Gate Farmgirl, Bless you both for reaching out and serving these young men. God give you wisdom, compassion, time, and energy as you minister to them.
I didn't finish my nursing training until I was 31. Then, after a year, I took a job in the inpatient pharmacy of my hospital. I worked there for 27 years. Three years ago I changed jobs and went back to nursing. So, I am encouraging you... You got this!
My brother in law is an ER doc. All the kids are off and growing their own families. He carefully schedules all his work shifts to work the major holidays so the younger Dr's can be home with their young children. They schedule their family holidays a few days off which also prevents his kids from having to make choices each year about which in-law famliy to visit. Its not TOTALLY selfless.. He also schedules himself off work to watch his college alma mater football games and he and sister take really long vacations between his back to back work shifts a few times a year! lol
I am sure your coworkers are happy to have your knowledge and shift flexibility!
@jes, I covered on-call during the Xmas party at one job I had. It was too far of a drive for us plus we our kids were on the borderline of being home along. We lived somewhat rural. Kristen will earn brownie points (not that I think she's keeping track by any stretch of the imagination). Tis a small thing you can do for others.
1. I have been working at the same job for 28 years, but have moved companies multiple times. Each company does things vastly diferently. The one I am with has constant specail programs and projects. We learn new skills often.
2. I used to put my corn starch in a canning jar with a shaker lid because if an accident is going to it will happen to me.
3. I am on an ongoing pursuit to reduce food waste. I can now look at a wrinkly apple and see compost and not a missed opprotunity.
4. Does anyone else feel like they drive better in a cleaned out car. I don't know where this comes from, but a clean car gives me a lift.
@Amy,
I use a parmesan cheese lid on my quart jar.
I have to say that working with younger people and the new changes to computers is different. But at least the young people don't mind picking up the phone to show me, the oldest employee on the team. However, the lead doesn't like that I have to ask questions more than once and gets very frustrated that I am not proficent like the others. Sometimes this position is complicated and she doesn't understand that directions have to be written down and be clear step by step. So frustrating on both our ends. But I think as a lead, she should have a little more compassion rather than say "I have to go now" and hang up the phone while in the middle of teaching because she is frustrated at me. Isn't that what a lead is for -- to teach and assist? At least in my company that's what I thought it's for.
@Maureen, have you considered reporting this leader's behavior to HR in your company? This sounds like an issue that a good HR department would want to hear about. But if this isn't feasible for you, I understand.
@A. Marie, the manager is well aware of her behavior. I try so hard to overlook it, but at my age, I am giving up. I have 5 months left and just have to get thru it is what I am telling myself. And if I don't do the work, it is already documented. "5 more months, 5 more months, 5 more months ........"
I felt like that "old beginner" when I went to university two years ago, and I really hated it. Especially all that is related to computer/technology. I didn't stay in the program (not for that reason). That said, I do plan on going back to school once I'm retired from my current job (in 10 years), but not to university.
Along the same lines as your bottleneck, it's important to realize that being a lifelong learner means being bad at things frequently, and also sometimes looking foolish in public. Well worth it, IMHO.
After you peruse your fridge: soup, stirfry, and eggs are excellent ways to use up the random bits.
The 80/20 rule applies in a vast percentage of cases (if not always in that exact proportion). 20% of the work (or progress or customers or...) will take 80% of the effort (or time or money or...). It pays to consider whether the last part is worth all that effort.
Sometimes I really, really wish I had a camera for an eyeball. Such as a minute ago, when my dog failed to jump high enough and slipped off the bed while trying to join me. The look on his face!
You can do it!!!
I love quiet, zen YouTube videos & my daughter sent me a link to one called Starting Project Pan (no idea why it’s called this). It’s about a young woman who catalogues all her health & beauty aids & commits to using them all up. I don’t know why I enjoyed it so much- she is a young European girl & I have absolutely nothing in common with her. But, dang it- I organized & wrote down all I have & am going to use up what I have, too. I have a very minimal beauty routine. But I have so much stuff!!! How does this happen? I know exactly how it does- my daughter works PT at Ulta & buys me treats all the time. Anyway- my next several months will find me with moisturized skin & gorgeous lip color!
I returned to in-person college in my 30's and it felt a little weird, but for the most part, the younger folks accepted me, and another returning friend and I noticed we both became the unofficial "mom" in our classes.
I came to this job 8 years ago, and the vice president here is the same age as my youngest daughter. Our company president was born the year I got my driver's license. Well, the older I get, the more I will be surrounded by people younger than me, I suppose.
I did a clean out of my fridge this weekend. It's always a good feeling.
This should be a thanksgiving Thursday, but it can't wait -- WE HAVE RAIN. It's been a looooong time coming.
@JD, the thing that really weirds me out about aging is that all my doctors are now younger than I am. 🙁 And congratulations on your rain! (It sounds as if they're getting a drown-out in central FL, though.)
@A. Marie,
My sister in Deland says it is unbelievable how much rain they have been getting and were still getting as of yesterday. They've had some closed roads and water intrusion in some subdivisions, yet we in NW Florida are so dry!
Most of my doctors are younger than me, but my gastroenterologist is older than me - which is a little weird feeling!
@JD, mine are all retiring and I am looking for new ones. Big Sigh
YES to the cornstarch! I have had the exact same thoughts!
I was 53 when I started at my current job (I’m 64 now) and before I started it hadn’t occurred to me that it would be challenging to be the old dog learning new tricks. While the first six months were very tough I stuck it out. I noticed that there were plateaus of confidence - at the six month mark I no longer felt scared. At the two year mark I felt pretty confident. At the five year mark I looked back and realized how little I knew at that two year mark. ? Kristen, you are amazing and already are a great nurse because of your kindness and empathy. Being new doesn’t change that.
once again you are too hard on yourself. you got this. good luck on your first solo day. if the folks above you didn't think you could do it, you wouldn't be doing it. Still slogging through college applications. At least the SUNY and CUNY applications' have a week where applying is free. saving at least $500. in order to get aid, you have to give them so much personal information, including passwords. it is so invasive and i am disgusted.
hubby and i are both retired so of course we have assets. are we supposed to bankrupt ourselves so our kids can go to college?
@Anita Isaac, passwords to personal accounts should not be required. Are you sure they aren't asking you to set up new passwords for the accounts to submit the college applications?
@Anita Isaac, passwords? There is no legitimate reason for someone to request that from you. Please push back on providing it. And change your password if you've already provided it.
You've got this! I'm confident you've learned so much from all of your trainers, and you are going to crush this.
I'm just anxiously counting down until my girlfriends trip on Thursday.
I am rooting for you! You have learned so much and come so far. You are inspiring me.
I am so looking forward to someday taking those holiday shifts. I remember being hospitalized during Christmas, and kind people, who are okay with being there and not missing out on their family stuff, can make all the difference when you're in the hospital on a holiday!
My A&P professor is from Pakistan, and had a funny story about her first Halloween in the U.S. Of course, they do not celebrate Halloween in her country (or her religion), so when a neighbor girl came to her door dressed in a costume, with a bag of candy, my professor said, "Oh, thank you!" and took some candy, thinking her neighbor was welcoming her to the country. After she closed the door, her son said, "Mom...you're supposed to give HER candy, that's how they do it here on Halloween!" She felt so badly that she went to Walmart and got some 'very nice candy' and took it over to the neighbors, to apologize.
But she thinks it's cute how everyone likes to dress up on Halloween and said that if students dress up on Thursday for our exam and lab, she'll give them 5 extra credit points. Sign me up! I'm going to wear my Stargate SG-1 jacket, some jeans, and maybe an army hat. DH says I should also carry a Nerf gun. I hope I don't get pulled over by campus security if I do that.
As for being a late bloomer, I am about ten years older than Kristen, I think, and a bit younger than my current professor! By the time I finish getting my RN, God willing, I will be about 55 years old. Then again, if I didn't start the program, I'd still be 55 years old by that time. 😉
@Karen A., good luck to you. good point that you would be 55 in ten years regardless of whether you went to nursing school or not.
I have a cornstarch container like that -- I purchased it years ago. Now I buy the boxed stuff and transfer it. A bit of a pain initially, but so much easier to use on the regular.
I have no doubt you'll do great nursing going forward.
@Cindi, Just a thought. Plastics break down over time and slough off microparticles into food. You may want to consider transferring your cornstarch into a glass container like a jar or a canister with a label.
My limited schedule has been set in stone for quite some time. However, for next month, because I did not choose what holidays I wanted off (Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day) I will be working the weekend before Thanksgiving and the following Tuesday. I realize it is to allow the "other" nurse to have the time and a half which starts Thursday at midnight. (the end of Wednesday) and probably take Christmas off for her family. The point is, I've been accustomed to two days on, with three days off not just one. I'm glad I have time to process this. (I work nights, remember?) I am flexible with a lot of things. Scheduling is not one of them.
I intended to go on safari in the fridge today even w/o the suggestion. The picture of that apple made me laugh, because it took me half an instant to figure out what it was. The soup I made two weeks ago was not very good and so did not get eaten. I did buy a head of lettuce just the other day and the best way for me to eat salad is to prep the ingredients ahead of meals. I am hungry for taco salad and have the fixin's.
I use tapioca flour in place of cornstarch for fruit thickening. I have it and some flour in pressure lidded jars (not screw on lids) near the stove. Late last spring, once the heat was off, I knocked the tapioca flour onto the intake duct to the heating system and the lid came off. Fortunately, I place a thin sheet of air conditioner filter on all of the intake vents because of the dog hair. Anyway, that stayed until just this Saturday morning when I raised the front of the cook stove as it is over one edge of the vent and cleaned that mess up. (I also used the longer vacuum cleaner hose to go down the heat vent in the bathroom to see if my hearing aid was there. It did not show itself, Insert sad emoji here.) I was able to turn the heat on after that. 63' is pretty chilly to try and do anything but snuggle under the comforter. That's my miscellany for the time being.
Kristen, you'll do fine. You already have more of the basics just from your tech experience. I would say it's like eating an elephant, but I realize that's not a good analogy with a job that requires multi-tasking.
I went back to school at 45 to become a teacher. I was told I would never get a job because of my age. It was one of the best things I have ever done.never let age stand in the way of a good idea.
@Deb, I have a dear friend (I call her my adoptive mom) who I met when I was in graduate school. She was in her mid-40s, going back to school to be a teacher, and she has loved her 'second career'. Her first career was with the Post Office, but she always had a desire to teach. She has touched so many lives.
I rarely comment, but have been an avid reader for many years. I love how you are a team player and greatly appreciate that you want to help your coworkers with small children. While you may be a newer nurse, this is so lovely for your coworkers!!!
I hate to say it, but if you are over 40, you've already embarked on the FIFTH decade of your wonderful life. Congratulations! Much, much better than the alternative.
Hahah yes you are correct!
I am glad someone else has the same opinion of the advantages of corn starch coming in a container with a lid! I do buy the cornstarch in a box because it's usually cheaper but I pour it in the saved empty lidded container. I love reusing the yellow name brand cornstarch container too as it's bright and cheery. 🙂
I had the plumbers out today. All my drains back-flowed late last week; it was an unholy mess. The root of the problem, no pun intended, is some roots in my front yard. Mainly ones from the giant oak trees. They showed me the camera they threaded through the pipe cleanout so I could see the sewer drain. Toilet paper and other yucky substances were caught in the roots, causing a blockage. Last week, when I did laundry, the washing machine's draining all at once made everything go backwards and out of the toilets and bathtub drains -- very sickening, to say the least! They're cutting away the underground roots, but the plumber said it's just like your hair, it'll grow back. So I'm going to be good buddies with the plumbers over time. At least for now, the problem is fixed -- at a very non-frugal tune of $200/hour. (Thankfully, they worked fast.)
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Our store had a big sale on soda pop. Dr Pepper, 7 Up, Big Red and A&W Root Beer were on sale for $3.99 per 12--pack box of cans. Mexican Coke, the kind bottled in Mexico using real cane sugar, was 99 cents per glass bottle. (Here in Texas, Mexican Coke is very popular and a lot of Mexican food restaurants and food trucks sell it for $3 a bottle). I'm a people-watcher, and it was fun to see the customers in action. Many of them loaded up so many sodas that it's a miracle the shopping carts didn't collapse under all that weight. I'm talking dozens of cases! We sold out twice on both product lines. One guy came in and bought a dozen 24-bottle cases of Coke and five 12-packs of 7Up -- you can't tell me he wasn't a bar owner, although he claimed it was for his Halloween party. (If so, with a party that big, I'd hate to be his neighbor; I imagine the cola and 7Up will be mixed with alcohol -- lots of it -- and the party will be WILD.) Another thing is that a lot of the canned sodas will start tasting flat within a short period of time; they were likely about to expire(on the "best if used by--" date), which is why they were put on clearance. Unless it was for a very big family that drinks lots of Dr Pepper product, I fear the customers are going to be disappointed with their purchase after a while. Soda pop starts taking on an aluminum taste if stored in cans too long.
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Except for the above-mentioned sale and a few other items, most products in our store are going UP in price. During my break, I snatched up the last few 85-cent cans of Pedigree dog food; the new price is almost a dollar more. (We use price stickers and will honor the price on the sticker.) I'm also seeing shrinkflation: a company that had sold 10-ounce bags of chips costing $2.99 is now bringing out a 7-ounce bag for the same price. Methinks we're going to be needing our frugal skills a whole lot more, so get ready!
@Fru-gal Lisa, we regularly buy that much soda when the price is low. Last spring there was such a good price that we bought about 50 cases total. Plus 2 cans of spaghettios. We certainly were the subject of the staff’s amusement and speculation!
@Fru-gal Lisa, when I was a teenager, my dad bought me a little business that had three soda vending machines and I would go and restock them, get the change, service them, etc. I remember buying stacks upon stacks of 4 - six pack cases when the price dropped to 99 cents per six pack. We stored them in the garage and in my trunk for most of the year but in the summer, my trunk would get hot and the cans would sometimes explode. My husband said he would do the same but he had no business; just a strong, relentless hankering for coca-cola. I can't imagine drinking that much soda - it's just not a daily item for me but if you do have people in your house drinking it regularly, these savings really add up!
@CrunchyCake, I used to be one of those people but now I drink soda more sporadically!
@Fru-gal Lisa, my son and i love mexican coke. it goes for $4.50 in the pizzeria
a half block from my apt to $2.75 at home depot 15 blocks from my apt. 99cents wow. i'm there.
You've got this in spades, Kristen! I am so excited to see you flourish, every step towards this day! It is a very special day and I am cheering you on from my little perch, kinda like Woodstock, hehe.
my fridge was pretty cleaned out, so did a freezer clean out and was able to put together this weeks meals with things I had frozen! Cup of black beans, small container of leftover taco meat, some frozen peppers, and cauliflower rice have been turned into "Chipotle" bowls!
Kristen, I think you are showing women (& men) that it is possible to start again at any age. Research suggests that adults change jobs/careers 13 times in their lifetime. I believe that parenting is the most important & (sometimes) hardest job we as humans can have. Without women having babies the human race would not exist. So think of this as just another step in bettering your life.
As far as being on your own, GIRL YOU GIT THIS! Even if you feel uncertain there are others to come assist if necessary. Like you said nursing is a teamwork job. 🙂 We are all nervous at the first time doing solo. You are going to be proud of yourself by end of your shift's.
Our current house has not adjustable (that I can do) shelves in the refrigerator. I always put leftovers on top shelf right in front. That way there's limited space before they need to be eaten or frozen or tossed. Usually rescue dogs get after 3 days.
I can't remember who reminded me that composting is not food waste. Even if it is just throwing that not edible apple outside for wildlife to eat. It truly amazes me at how many people (outside of the commentary) that do not think twice about being more food wise. I see people throw away food that is still good regularly. I guess I will never get that, but that's ok.
We have to remember to give ourselves grace just as we do to others. <3
You CAN do it! One of the nicest things about working in hospitals is that there's always someone to ask for help.
My miscellany is a food waste stubborn win. I rescued three pounds of freezer-burned ground beef from the freezer by turning it into a giant bolognese, also using a bunch of vegetables that I'd frozen over the last few months to avoid waste. I set the pot out to cool at night on the balcony...and then I went to bed and the family member who promised they'd put it in the fridge forgot. It's cold at night--about 32-41F (4-5 C)--but that's not cold enough for food safety. I put the pot in the fridge in the morning. The plan is to re-boil for a good ten minutes when I get home, then divide into small containers, rapidly cool, and then freeze. I am NOT letting someone else's forgetfulness mess up this sauce! It's a good $50 CAD of ingredients (kosher meat,) and a good 90 minutes of work, never mind the 3h of simmering. And it was DELICIOUS, to boot!
@Meira (meirathebear.wordpress.com), someone in my house did that with a pastured chicken. I have strong stomach but my roommate has digestive issues, so that chix is now only for me. I'll cook it thoroughly first so I'm thinking it'll be soup or white chili.
Radom re: frugality. Receiving gifts. I just had a birthday, and Christmas is coming up, and I hate receiving gifts. Hate! Am I the only one? I am frugal, and it’s always something overpriced that I don’t need/want/have room for. Yes, I give one gift suggestion but there are always additional gifts for which I feel indebted/uncomfortable, that become clutter. These are family members. Anyone else?
@Mary, Oh my gosh, yes. I asked the nieces for coffee and only coffee, a bag of coffee each, or just one between the 3 of them (they are aged 38-46). Did I get coffee, yes, but the one niece made a whole coffee gift bag which included a sign and fluffy socks +++, which I had no use for and the said coffee. And the other 2 nieces also padded my coffee gift with other stuff. I just want simple!
@Mary, you are not the only one. I dislike receiving gifts, too. I just smile, say thank you and, unless it's a consumable that I will actually use, I immediately start thinking about how to get it out of my life. Buy Nothing is wonderful for this.
Yes, me too?
@MB in MN, I have used Buy Nothing group and my local thrift store but since family members are the givers, I look to see if I’m using said gifted item. So I have to be upfront at the outset. It is always awkward and I struggle. The gift suggestions I give to family members are consumables. But they still get me other things that clutter and I don’t want.
@MB in MN, THEY look to see
@MB in MN, I laughed when I read your comment because I feel exactly the same!
@Linda in Canada, It’s frustrating. I offer gift suggestions of consumables but I also get items I don’t want or need. I struggle.
@Mary, oh that is awkward and a struggle. If/when they ask, could you say something like "I appreciate your generosity very much. I enjoy the consumable items you give me. Since I knew I wouldn't use ______, I gave it to someone who would be able to enjoy it." Maybe, just maybe, they'll stop buying you things you didn't ask for.
@Mary, I don't necessarily hate receiving gifts, but I prefer them to be consumable, as I have little storage space. As a teacher I get a lot of small gifts. They often get passed on to others.
Just got home from a 12 hour shift. Eating what passes for breakfast and will be asleep shortly. Just to do it all again.
When I worked as a nurse call operator, my schedule was 7 days on, 7 days off. It was rough working but nice to be off that much.
It has always been my observation that when people approach a new to them task with a "beginner's mind" they are eager and thorough learners. They are willing to make mistakes along the way (with supportive teachers to help them get out of a bind) and grow with new knowledge.
Sometimes, though--especially with highly intelligent people who are embarrassed not to know something they think they should, even if nothing in their lives would have ever prepared them for it, they have great difficulty learning, they are highly self-critical, and they get in their own way. This is not to say less intelligent people learn better, but to say that people whose egos are wrapped up in their perception of their own intellect have a harder time being beginners. This is the reason, for instance, that my husband never learned social dancing--he was too afraid to be bad at it before he got good at it.
I work in a profession where practitioners are supposed to have a high intellect (but in reality we are only human--imagine that!), and my observation is that male clients are more likely feel intimidated because they think they should know as much as the person who has devoted many years to earning the degree, licensure, specialization in my field, even if their own experience has nothing to do with my profession.
I love working with beginners who aren't afraid to be beginners, to be bad at something before they get good at it. They are curious and interactive, and make teaching fun. (I'm not a teacher, but my profession and my hobbies often put me in the position of educating others about specific areas where I have expertise). And I'm not embarrassed to be a beginner myself--to ask questions to learn new things. And when someone gives me a tidbit of new information on something I feel a degree of mastery in, I'm thrilled, not embarrassed that I didn't know that already.
Hold on to your beginner's mind, Kristen. It will always serve you well.
I am 71, and retired in May of 2024. I had been a CPA for over forty years. Got a call last week from the firm I retired from, asking if I wanted to come back and work on a project. It is rewriting the quality management document for the firm to comply with the latest requirements from the governing authorities. Went in today, and wow, things have changed in just a little over a year. I'm diving in and doing it. Figured it was good for my brain. Never too late to learn.
I took one for the team and ate all the dribs and drabs in refrig for lunch and dinner tonight. An interesting mix. I made some shrimp tempura (From Costco) for my husband but I at mashed potatoes, a smidgen of rice with mango salsa on it, a hard boiled egg that needed using up, and some cauliflower. Fridge looks good now. HE had some pasta aglio olio made with the leftover thin spaghetti.Fridge in better shape!
Nursing and learnin news things: WhenI was in nursing school we had a very small class. My 8 best friends, my study group, were me, and 7 other married women who all had children and were on our second careers, or,for some, their first time out of the motherhood role.. we loved supporting one another! Our age range was 30-44. Our instructors,however, were all older military nurses!! HARD ON US! But we loved it and lived up to it!!
Be kind to yourself: 5 shifts in a row, 12 hours,is a really lot.Don’t burn your self out early on!!!!!
THANK YOU for continuing to blog when you are soo busy!!
We just got home from a 26 day trip, so my fridge is looking very bare! On tomorrow’s agenda is to clean the fridge before restocking!!!!
I had a head slap moment when I read the comments about the cornstarch. I always buy the box and have always thought it was the messiest thing ever, no matter how hard I tried. After careful consideration, I have chosen an appropriate jar from my “may come in handy someday” collection and will be carefully transferring said box to jar and continue this practice in the future … which, only goes to prove, you’re never too old to learn something! LOL
I don't know why it didn't occur to me to do that with my boxes of cornstarch before!
I refill my Argo container with the cheaper boxed cornstarch!
Strange to me that nursing preceptors are so young. Wouldn’t it be more beneficial if they had more than a few year’s work experience?
Wellll, lots of older nurses have left the field in the last few years. It's slim pickings!
I also really appreciate the plastic corn starch container. I refill mine with bulk corn starch from the bins at WinCo. I know not everyone has a WinCo nearby, in face my closest store is 8 miles from home. I appreciate their large bulk food section and general low prices (without limits, I might add) I'm willing to make a bi-monthly trip to support them and keep my budget in check.
I visited WinCo with Katy in Portland and was massively impressed. I wish we had one here!