Thankful Thursday | my first time in scrubs!
This week I am thankful:
that I got to order scrubs
Yesterday I went to the uniform store and got fitted for student uniform scrubs.
(!!!!!!)
And I have never in my life been so excited to wear shapeless clothes. Ha.
Because of all the obstacles I faced to get here, I feel extra giddy about every step that's getting me closer to my dream. 🙂
I'm really doing this, you guys!
for this gap in my own schooling
Some of my fellow fall 2023 nursing students just finished a full semester, AND they're taking microbiology or anatomy and physiology 2 over the summer.
I am feeling so thankful that I got to be off from school this last semester, and also that I don't have to take classes this summer. It's been wonderful to be free to be available for Lisey and all her moving stuff and to have time to help Zoe finish up her last semester of high school.
Plus, it's nice not to be taking any classes while I navigate all the nursing school prep stuff, like the medical tests, the CPR certification, the uniform ordering, and so on.
This time off from school is letting me take care of a lot of important things so that I can jump into school this fall with a nice clean slate.
(And hopefully with lots of energy for studying!)
for 22 years of memories with Lisey
This week I was thinking over fun times with her in the past and I thought, "I could be sad that those times are over. OR I could be thankful that they happened!"
I have over two decades of memories from living with Lisey, and when I think of it that way, I feel wealthy in time-with-Lisey currency.
Even though she will be living in Hawaii now, that doesn't take away all the memories I have of her. Those are stored in my heart forever.
I was also thinking...I left home when I got married at 19. So my parents didn't even get this many years of having me at home.
And there are also people who experience the heartbreak of losing their children before they reach Lisey's age. Twenty-two years would feel like an amazing gift to them, and it can also feel like that to me. 🙂
that Lisey's flights went well
She successfully made it to Las Vegas and then Hawaii!
Her baggage all made the weight limits!
She texted me on her layover and said, "I already met a new friend." Because another girl who is also moving to Hawaii was waiting for the flight. Yay!
And she FaceTimed me when she landed. I got to see the palm trees over her head. 🙂
for the cat. Because of course.
for the last time of getting a kid ready to graduate
I filled out the paperwork to get Zoe officially graduated and it feels good to be closing the door on the homeschooling chapter of my life.
It's working out great that I am finishing that role just in time to start my full-time nursing student role.
for mulberry season
I was very excited this week to see that the mulberry trees on my usual walking path now have ripe fruit!
My fingers are stained with mulberry juice every day now. 😉
I am so happy for you that you get to spend your energy on other stuff than your prerequisites these months! You can focus on those now. Take care of yourself - and we are looking forward to seeing you wear those scrubs for real in the autumn!
Thankful for lovely weather in the past week, and a garden that is sprouting green everywhere. For the first blossoms in the sweet peas (I had sweet peas in my wedding bouquet, now 33 years ago). For being welcomed back warmly at work after our short holiday. For having maintenance done to our home, and feeling secure we have the money set aside for this purpose.
How wonderful to see you in scrubs!!
Thankful that I have been given two different job interviews
Thankful for gorgeous spring/summer weather where we are- it smells like lilacs everywhere and they are so pretty.
Thankful that my husband was unexpectedly given an inheritance from a distant relative- we're using it towards our mortgage
@Sarah K, Oh, two different job interviews! That's great news! My fingers are crossed that they go well for you.
@Sarah K, Good luck on getting offers for the jobs. I hope you end up with the best job ever!
Popping in before leaving for work. You look fantastic in those scrubs, Kristen! I'm excited for you!
In today's photo, the cat looks to me as if she's saying, "Today I am the still point in Kristen's rapidly turning world." And so she is. (Also, you're really rockin' those scrubs, Kristen!)
Today I'm thankful, as I have been so often, for my dear Dr. Bestest Neighbor. I was very worried about DH after my Tuesday visit to him: He was **completely** out of it; I didn't like his color (kind of waxy yellow); and his breathing was sort of rough. I flagged down my favorite LPN, who said he hadn't eaten breakfast that day or dinner the night before, either. She took his vitals and said she'd have either her RN supervisor or the house NP take a look at him--but I wanted Dr. BN to see him as well. (As a former medical director of our local hospice, he's seen a lot more people in the end stages than I have.)
Dr. BN accompanied me yesterday and went over DH pretty carefully (pulse, eyelids, hands, feet, etc.). We were also both glad to note that DH's color was better, and to hear from the LPN that he'd resumed eating. Dr. BN assured me that apart from cold/slightly mottled hands (which aren't out of the ordinary in DH's present state), everything he was checking for looked good. So it seems to me as if DH may have taken another step down the Alzheimer's stairs, but is not at the bottom yet. And a neighbor like Dr. BN is a pearl beyond price.
@A. Marie, Glad that your husband is a little better and thank you for the Eliot reference. He is my favorite.
@A. Marie,
I’m thankful that you have the unwavering support of Dr. BN. I am sorry for your heartbreak.
@A. Marie, I'm thankful that you have Dr. BN to help you navigate the difficult waters of Alzheimer’s. After dealing with Mom's Alzheimer decline, I understand how difficult it is for the caregivers and my heart goes out to you.
@A. Marie, such a hard time. Hugs.
@A. Marie,
That was so kind of your neighbor - he really earns the name of Dr. BN. I'm so glad that your husband looks better and the doctor found nothing concerning.
@A. Marie, I rejoice in your stories of your DH's adventures through the years and I note his difficult situation (and yours) with sorrow. Thank goodness for your wonderful neighbor, a dear friend who has been there for you in both phases.
@A. Marie,
We all need a still point in this rapidly turning world!
Many thoughts and prayers to you as you navigate this journey.
@A. Marie, my mom had Alzheimer's and would stay stable for long periods. Those times when she would crash down on a step without warning were heartbreaking. (((Hugs))) What a blessing Dr. BN is in all ways.
@A. Marie, Prayers and hugs to you, your husband and family, and your Dr. BN. Also for the caring nurses and staff. I'm so sorry you're having to deal with Alzheimer's -- it's a long, rough journey for all concerned.
@A. Marie, what a roller coaster you've been on. I'm glad that you have the BNs on your side. Sending positive vibes your way.
@A. Marie, SO thankful you have friends who are providing support as you navigate your difficult path.
@A. Marie, It's so great that you have this great neighbor and friend - you are clearly the kind of person who attracts and cultivates rich friendships; I'm so glad you have this help. And so happy to know that Dr. BN's checkup turned up good results.
@A. Marie, I second what everyone else has said. Should I ever find myself in the same situation as yours, I know I'll be able to draw on all of the lessons you have shared here. Hugs to you across the miles.
Plus, you never know, Kristen. I was sure my daughter would never live at home again--then the pandemic happened and I yanked her out of Manhattan. Couldn't have predicted that.
I am thankful for:
1. My son being home from France.
2. It's June! Yes! Summer!
3. The organizer ghosted me, I think! I told her it was gonna be a challenge. Instead I hired someone else who will be here Saturday. Yay, organization!
4. We had a fright when the cat opened the screen door by himself and was nowhere to be found. He was sunning himself on the deck. Good thing he has his looks to fall back on.
5. The climbing rose I planted last summer looks so good. And I have hopes that the grapevine I planted three (?) years ago will actually produce this year.
@Rose, So...did your son enjoy Cannes?
@Steph, Oh yes, but he was disappointed he didn't get to meet his idol Scorsese.
A friend had provided some information about cats who get outside and seem nowhere to be found. It seems they often freeze up or freak out and are often hiding in a nearby garage or shed or other close place, not running far away. They can't process that you are calling them or putting food out, seemingly are paralyzed by fear.
I'm glad you found your coconut-oil scented beach boy on the deck.
@Steph, And he didn't illegally smuggle me some French cheese this year. Damn, that's good cheese. Not sure you can have a bad meal in France, though.
@Heidi Louise, I had heard similar, that indoor-only cats are so freaked out to get outside they don't go far. Thank goodness we found him and now know to keep the screen doors locked. My daughter is planning to make a matching collar and bow tie out of scraps of the fabric she is going to make a dress from for her cousin's wedding in a few weeks.
I hope my niece appreciates the vintage 1920s wedding card I got for her. Seems like yesterday I was making my brother a card for his wedding to her mom, which involved a lot of pictures of chickens because he was hen-pecked, or something. I just remember a lot of pictures of chickens. Hm.
What a wonderful way of looking at your time with Lisey.
I am thankful that today would have been my Mom's birthday. She lived almost 91 years and she was able to be active until a few months before the end of her life. She would not have been happy being immobile. She was a wonderful mom and grandma.
I am thankful for the lovely spring weather we have had. I know it will generally be warmer going forward but it couldn't have been a nicer spring.
I am thankful for the life our new neighbors have brought to their "new" house. Our former neighbors were wonderful but they were empty nesters that were away a lot. The new neighbors have two kids and two dogs and they are loving their "new" home.
I am thankful for DH. He is a hard working person that always treats others well.
I am thankful for other family members as well.
@K D, We had an elderly friend end life the same way. She was incredibly active (international medical mission trips! events! mentoring young doctors!) until the last few months of her life. We like to think that she really lived life until the very end, and isn't that a wonderful legacy?
It is wonderful that you have had a break between finishing your prerequisites and the beginning of your nursing program. Time may be the most precious commodity.
I am thankful that we had a day on the water during Memorial Day Weekend. I love going out in the boat with my son, friends, and family.
I am thankful that my older son married such a wonderful women. My DIL is a great person and a terrific mother.
I am thankful that my daughter has come for a two-week visit. She just completed her doctorate. During the last 3 years, she has been immersed in her work and has had little time. I really have not seen much of her, and we went long stretches without being able to chat. It’s fun to have her home!
I thankful that my middle son made it safely to the little town in Alaska where he will be doing working on his thesis and doing guide work over the summer. It’s a long trip from the East Coast and involved multiple days of travel as well as planes, trains and automobiles.
I am thankful that we have had fairly mild weather for this time of year. I dread Florida’s summer heat, but for now I can still be outside without sweating.
Wishing every peace, good health and prosperity.
That should be woman singular not women. I’m thankful my son has only one wife.
@Bee, that cracked me up!
@Bee, ....that you know about. DUN DUN DUNHHHHH
@Bee, Congrats to your doctorate-daughter! What a great accomplishment! Also to your sons, one doing his thesis and one a new bridegroom (of one beautiful bride, no less.) Sounds like your family is doing very well!
@Bee, Your son gives you a perfect excuse to come to Alaska!
@Bee, I share your relief that your son has only one wife. As Mr. Rochester points out in Jane Eyre just after he's gotten busted at the altar for attempting bigamy, "Bigamy is an ugly word!"
@A. Marie, #teambertha
Scrubs! Graduation! A new start for Lisey! So much to celebrate!
This week I'm thankful that my husband and I were able to sell our 14 year old car within 10 hours of listing it for sale. That car moved us to Florida, and then to Maine...and Iowa and Michigan, and back to Florida. So many memories. It was sad to let it go, but it was time. And now a teenager gets to have his own adventures in Baby Blue.
I'm thankful that we've been having a little rain. We really need it, and in typical Florida fashion, it's mostly been raining on the other side of town and not where we live, haha, but we got a little. Also, last week my friend and I got caught in a downpour after doing some shopping, and I could not stop laughing at how drenched we were. I reminded myself of how my mom laughed and giggled when she watched something that made her so happy.
I'm thankful for my husband's company, which is allowing him to drive a company vehicle to and from work. It saves us from sharing our one remaining car, at least for his commute, and at least for now.
This week I am thankful for:
1. Folks like you, Kristen, who want to help others and are willing to do all it takes to become a qualified healthcare professional in order to do so.
2. Being able to celebrate with family this past weekend. All the walking was tough for me, but so worth it to be there and be with them.
3. That the weather for our drive upstate was beautiful and the traffic was okay.
4. Friends who bring you treats.
5. That this short workweek actually feels shorter this time. Sometimes the extra day off makes the workweek feel longer for some reason.
I'm really having to flex my thankfulness muscle this week - it does not come easily. Which I guess makes it all the more important that I take the time to notice:
*my son bought a car, so he returned mine to me. Was it cleaned out? no. Was it filthy? Also no. I'm just super picky about having a clean car. And I am happy I could help him with a car for a month or so while he goes thru a sad time (divorce at 27. ugh)
*happy to have my job - for now. I am not financially ready to retire, but I do feel a more focused on what I need to do to get there.
*thankful for my home, my relative good health, new friends at work, and 4 days off a week to get things done at my house. The projects are moving to the front burners, and that feels great. (:
You look good in scrubs!
Thankfuls:
-a healthy body after a week of stomach bug at our house
-open windows because it’s warm outside
-getting to see my son with a trial power chair in our house. A bit terrifying (is that what parents of teen drivers feel?), but so cool.
-a quiet moment to rest before my day gets going
@Kaitlin, I remember when my friend's son first got a power chair. They had a lot of dinged-up walls. I'm sure the feeling of being out of control is similar, but at least with teen drivers, the INSIDE of my house is a safe space. Yikes.
@Kris, I did not get a power chair until my 60s and our house is scarred with marks from when I rammed into things. It still happens sometimes!
This is such a sweet post. I'm so glad you have so many wonderful memories with Lisey and that she has the gift of having such a supportive mom! What a great way for her to launch into the world.
I'm thankful for...
1. The time I get with the kids over summer break. At 8, 11 and 13, they aren't quite as rambunctious as they used to be, so this summer feels a lot more chill.
2. That I have a job that I love. I haven't always had a job (I was a stay-at-home mom for many years and now I'm a work-from-home mom), and I haven't always loved the jobs that I did have, so I don't take this for granted.
3. That I get a couple of days away with my husband to visit art museums--my happy place. We haven't done this in years, and I'm almost giddy about it.
4. My mini cactus garden, because plants also make me happy. 🙂
“I could be sad that those times are over. OR I could be thankful that they happened!”
Thank you for sharing your POV! I love how your reframing. It inspires me to do the same.
Positive as usual, but I know your heart must be hurting for yourself, despite the excitement for Lisey. Glad you have lots to do and focus on to distract yourself.
I'm thankful this week for . . .
--More rain! The pastures are looking really green now, which is something we haven't seen in awhile. It's exciting.
--Soooo glad it's summer break and we have so much more time at home now. I hate having to go anywhere in rain/snow, and now I don't have to.
--It's such a luxury having arranged our jobs/life so that when school is out, we have all the time with our children. I'm so relaxed. I can read many books to the small ones! I can do my kitchen things any time, not just on my days off! I can keep my house cleaner! (Good thing, given the amount of mud getting tracked into my house right now.) I can take a nap in the afternoon! Glorious.
--And my husband also has more time in the summer, because he's not driving the bus. I don't have to work around his bus run for dinner, which is great.
--I have SO MUCH volunteer lettuce that came up around my tomatoes. It's like a salad-in-a-bed, and I'm stoked. 🙂
Scrubs look good on you Kristen!
-I'm thankful that our son's summer college classes have started and so far, he is excited and enthusiastic about school. I'm hopeful that he will be happy with his decision to go back to school to get a computer science degree.
-I'm thankful that we are financially secure enough to help our son get his second degree. I may postpone going part time, but it won't delay my retirement.
-I'm thankful for the beautiful weather we've had this week.
-I'm thankful that this weekend I get to see both kids and celebrate Mother's Day (my own special day since our daughter was in Europe for the "ordinary" Mother's Day)
-I'm thankful for our dog. She is the most energetic animal I've ever met but she is always so happy and ready to play.
You rock the scrubs! Enjoy the pretty blue color (mine are black).
The ongoing launching of children into adulthood is such a happy-sad time. Hugs.
Speaking of which ... thankful that my son is enjoying his summer internship. And thankful that our extended family has been taking him under their collective wings. They are providing him with mountains of food, as well as companionship. I think this will prove to be a memorable summer for all of them.
Thankful that my HS daughter won the physics award yesterday. That was unexpected. It was awarded as much for hard work and good attitude as it was for getting a good grade in the class (so I guess what I'm actually thankful for is that she is a hard worker, even with subject matter that doesn't naturally come easily--it's a good predictor for how she will do in college and later on in life).
Definitely for AC!!!! It's HOT in Michigan this week. Also, for my gym membership, which is greatly appreciated on 90 degree days.
For the opportunity to work on Monday. No, really! I had a good day, my coworkers were awesome, and it got me out of attending the local parade that my daughter was marching in (am I the only one who hates parades?).
@Kris, no you are not the only one who dislikes parades!
I also hate parades, but then I hate things like fireworks and balloon launches. If everyone else is having innocent fun, I'm going to scowl angrily.
I'm thankful Kristen's and Lisey's Excellent Adventures (remember Bill and Ted?) are starting at the same time, even if they will be far away (geographically) from one another, because embarking on something new and exciting "together" (even if apart) will be yet another shared experience. New beginnings for each of them.
Thankful for my health. I had a bout with a back flare-up in December right before Christmas and with lots of Chiropractors visits, change in diet and now physical therapy/exercise I am on the mend. I feel sooo much better. So thankful for my chiropractor and that he has kept encouraging me to take non surgical routes for treatment. I truly do feel better. I was worried because my brother, sister and I are taking an international trip in the fall and I didn't want my back to hold me back. I feel confident now that I will enjoy the trip and have fond memories with them.
Best wishes to Lisey and best wishes to you, Sonia and Zoe. My youngest had a bit of an adjustment to make when her sister moved out; her personality is resistant to change, and it almost affected her more than it did her dad and me.
1. I'm going to join Bee in being thankful for the surprisingly cool (for FL) Memorial Day weekend. It was simply delightful. I'm sure this sounds weird to people in cold climates.
2. I'm thankful that the holiday's extra day gave me time to groom the dogs well, protect the car's backseat with covers, and load both dogs up to visit DH in the nursing home, an hour from where I live. I surprised him, and his face lit up when our older dog, who we rescued when she was only four months old, trotted into his room and immediately jumped up on the bed with him to give him kisses. The newer dog doesn't really know him, but seemed happy to see him. Neither dog enjoys traveling or the nursing home, but they did well and certainly made DH's day.
3. I'm thankful for my grown children for many reasons, but today I'll mention this reason. They each voluntarily pay a third of the private room fees for DH's room, so that I only have to pay one third myself. I'm so, so grateful.
4. I'm thankful for the dozen or so blooms on my Meyer lemon tree. The deep freeze this winter froze it back a bunch, but it looks like it's going to recover, eventually.
5. I'm thankful that the "Heavy Hitter" okra (Baker Creek seeds) that I planted using seeds from a two-year old packet, are coming up well this year. Last year they struggled with some torrential rains. Keeping my fingers crossed.
6. Oh, and the potted Peacock Ginger (Kaempheria) that I divided this winter, planting some of the rhizomes in another pot, is now coming up fine - it's always slow to come up - and the ones in the new pot just have started to sprout. I had thought that new pot was going to be a failure. My goal is to keep dividing it and start planting some in the yard. It's the deep south substitution for hostas.
@JD, I love your #2 in particular. And, as usual, I'm envious of anyone who can grow okra. Goodness knows I've tried, but between the ravenous deer and the fluctuations of Central NY weather, I've stopped trying. As a consolation prize, I've found that purslane (another of the weeds I eat) makes a passable substitute for okra in gumbo.
@A. Marie,
I like purslane, but don't get that much of it in my yard. I do love okra, though. I'm glad I can grow it because fresh okra is usually expensive in the stores around here.
@JD, I love your #3. You and your husband clearly raised good and generous people!
1. For perspective. Being a caregiver for an elderly person with cognitive issues is no joke. It is difficult practically and emotionally. But I am grateful that I am able to be in this season of life caring for someone that I love dearly and I am grateful for all that it is teaching me about prioritizing self care so that I can pour out onto others. Everything I am experiencing in this season is invaluable, I will never get these days back and I am so blessed to have them.
2. For all of the growth in my gardens and green all over my yard. I love gardening, watching things grow, planting, harvesting, even weeding. It is a hobby, a task, exercise, and just brings me such joy every day.
3. For looser fitting clothes, ever increasing energy, new abilities, stronger muscles and an overall leaner, stronger version of my body. Weightloss and exercise is never an easy task but I am thankful for the scale and non-scale victories I am seeing and the encouragement it gives me to keep going.
4. Coffee. Batch cooking. My washer and dryer. Cleaners that make the task of having a clean home a bit easier. Lovely scented candles. All the things that make my life practically so much easier.
5. Worship music. Nothing like truth set to music to make me truly happy and thankful.
Happy Thursday!
@Angie, kudos to you on both your caregiving and your successful weight loss. I'm walking the walk with you on the caregiving, and I admire the weight loss.
Lots to be thankful for!
1. My elderly father fainted/passed out in the shower. He went to the hospital by ambulance and had many tests. Final verdict: severe dehydration. I was very relieved it was nothing more serious. Maybe this will finally convince him to drink more fluids. He avoids it because he does not like to use restrooms outside of his home.
2. My older daughter graduates from high school in exactly a week. She was admitted early decision to her favorite college and has gotten many scholarships to help pay for it. We also will use college savings. I'm thankful we saved and I'm thankful she made the effort to get scholarships!
3. My younger daughter will finish 9th grade in 2 weeks. She had a great year. I am thankful because the middle school years were not great (to say the least!) so it is wonderful to see her thriving.
4. I found out that I am being paid $1000 for an extra school job rather than the $500 I expected! Yay! They ran the details again and it qualified for $1000!
Kristen, thank you for keeping us current on all the events, including those mulberries (I have a fruitless mulberry dominating my front yard). The reality of your career dream within reach is an excellent remedy for potential melancholy about all the difficult changes in your family.
How cool to be able to wear colored baggy clothing instead of some dumb white dress with a weird hat. 😎
Thankfuls:
A giant load of mulch getting delivered today!
The ruined road to our cabin is getting repaired, incrementally inching further up the hill (lower 9 of 21 miles now passable)
A not-hot week
The convenience of ordering library books and then picking them up at our local library
Working from home never ceases to be a blessing and a thrill and a relief.
The insurance company already sent a check to repair my bumper after getting backed into just 2 weeks ago. (Now I have a decision to make. . . )
Oh Kristen, I am so thankful for you, your Thankful Thursday posts and your ability to share positive thoughts amidst challenging situations.
Congratulations on getting fitted for your scrubs! You will appreciate wearing scrubs - no “what am I going to wear today” thoughts. They wash well and are durable, too.
One suggestion: take good care of your feet. Wear good, supportive shoes. I worked as an RN for 43 years, you will be on your feet a lot.
Looking forward to continuing to read your updates. You’ve got this!!
I graduated from nursing school in the 90’s and I still remember vividly that feeling and excitement about wearing scrubs. Soon you’ll learn when it’s your day off and you put jeans on, they’ll feel constrictive and like you’re dressed up. My family will say mom’s not working today. She has her fancy clothes on!
SO MUCH GOOD NEWS! I am getting chills seeing you in those scrubs!! I am a retired Nurse Practitioner (labor and delivery and women’s health) and I remember my first day of nursing school like it was yesterday.As far as I am concerned you are a NURSE the day you put those scrubs on and go to your first class. In COMMUNITY COLLEGE they are gonna get you out there into clinical ASAP and you will be working your butt off and having a great time.I LOVED nursing school.it was a TON of hard work and long nights making care plans, long days in clinical hoping I did not hurt somebody!!!!
You have some very exciting times coming up! AND Lisey in Hawaii.. you will visit for sure! Facetime makes it so easy to “SEE” our kids now,even when they move far away.
Thanks for sharing all the bits and bobs of your life with us.AND THAT KITTY! ADORABLE!! What a ham! Your living room looks so cozy and I can “feel” the love in the photo.you certainly are redesigning your life very thoughfully, and it will all pay off!!
P.S. I sure wish we could have worn comfy utilitarian scrubs when I was in school.Our uniforms consisted of a white uniform, , white stockings,nurses shoes, and a striped pinafore that went OVER the white outfit! Also, a cumbersome nurses cap that had to be bobby pinned into your hair and stay there all day.We knocked over IV’s with it, got it dirty and bloody now and then, and generally it got in the way big time. Yet we coveted those caps. When we did our OB rotations, we got to wear really pretty mauve scrubs (it was the 80’s) and most of us “took home” a pair by the end of the rotation. I was proud of my white uniform when I got my first job, but scrubs are so much more practical.. I mean, nursing is not a very “clean” job.. scrubs make much more sense and I was glad to get a job in OB after 4 months on med surg, and finally,EVERYONE went to scrubs.
I just love your positive attitude! I know I've told you this before, lol but it's worth repeating. My mom has an attitude like that. She'd rather look for the good and there are times when I say, 'what would mom's attitude be like towards this' and change mine. But a lot of times I don't. I wish I could change that about myself.
Keep us posted on Lisey's adventures (as much as she'll let you share - with her permission of course) 😉
Yay for your first scrubs! It is so nice for you, as a working student mom, to have had this time to get your ducks in a row. Time is so precious.
Things I am thankful for : After six weeks of physical therapy, a lot of doctor visits and some medication changes, I am feeling so much better. Still have arthritis, of course, but the medical team and I have devised something that really seems to be helping.
Also thankful for my sweet family (always); our tribe of rescued dogs and cats, especially our youngest cat, who is the fluffiest, sweetest armful of chunky kitty love; the first tiny tomatoes in the container garden; and the flickers and woodpeckers visiting our birdfeeders late in the afternoons.
@Ruby, "chunky kitty love" is a pretty good description of my Betty, who sleeps with me most nights now and is a great comfort. DH picked her out at the shelter immediately back in 2015--and as in so many other things, he is taking care of me even now.
@A. Marie, Dora loves to sleep with us. She likes to curl up next to our legs and that soft, warm weight is so comforting.
There's something about her muscular size and fluffiness that makes her just lovely to carry around. That and she's such a sweet cat. It's like carrying around a fuzzy, good-natured baby.
@A. Marie, my daughter volunteers at a cat shelter and one of the cats is Betty, who is a big, lovable girl. Maybe it goes with the name. 🙂
Your future patients are so lucky to have you!
I am loving all the glorious sunshine we have had the last few days! It’s hot and sticky outside but the blue skies are so lovely! And the stickiness makes me really appreciate the bursts of rain that pop up to cool things down.
I decided last weekend to make my husband a temperature blanket for Christmas. I stopped by the craft store and found that my favorite yarn was on sale. I have two of the colors that I want to use in my stash and thankfully I needed very little of those two colors. I’m glad I came up with this idea when I did which should give me time to finish in time for Christmas.
Our state just passed free school breakfast and lunch for next year. My son loves school lunch and this will give him a few extra sleeping-in minutes before school next year. I’m also looking forward to a lower Costco bill each month.
My son is finally off the ibuprofen/Tylenol cycle and is sleeping through the night. His three week check up is next week and my fingers are crossed that his fracture is healing quickly!
Wow! Look at how all these things in your life are lining up so beautifully! Some responsibilities winding down, others ramping up...I'll bet you'll look back at this phase with some sense of pride and maybe some feelings of *woah*. You look like you were meant for those scrubs!
I'm thankful that I'm done with packing school lunches for a bit - last one this morning! And I'm happy that after tomorrow, we won't have to drag ourselves out of bed as early for a while.
Thankful for our friends who are always so hospitable and welcoming. They are always making fun celebrations at their home and welcome us with open arms.
Thankful that inviting friends over last weekend forced me to catch up on some housework. The list of to-do's this weekend is shorter now!
Oh, Kristen, you rock that blue scrub suit! What an exciting time for you and your girls -- all starting exciting new chapters of your lives!
Last week I totaled my car. It's hard to be thankful at a time like this. I was bruised very badly, but not severely injured. 2008r Cobalt would've cost more to fix than it was worth so I ended up paying the wrecking yard $50 and handing over the title in order to save the $300+ tow fee and the storage costs bringing the total to $500. Since no dealer wants to take a totaled 15 yo car in for trade, I suppose that was frugal. So 2 things to be sorta kinda thankful for.
Also thankful for my friends: Mary, my friend at church, who called herself my "chariot driver," taking me to the bank, the title office, the junkyard and to work every day; my coworkers who brought me home; my pastor who offered to go with me to shop for a car (ended up not being able to due to a parishoner's severe injury); and my former next door neighbor who drove me up and down our city's "Motor Mile," to look for cars. It took all day, but we finally found an almost-new used car that oughta last me a while. I didn't know how I would cope, but it turns out I have many friends willing to help out. Esp. Mary, who is an elderly woman with mobility issues; she said she can't do a lot to help others, but the one thing she can do is to drive her car.
This is a very sad one: I'm thankful for the folks at church who do so much to make everything just right, and to love and support everyone in a Christ-centered community. The reason it is sad is that Joyce, who serves on the altar guild, was trying to clean soot off the brick wall when she fell off a tall ladder and suffered a really bad head injury. We're talking emergency brain surgery, the whole works. (If any of you participate in prayer chains, please put Joyce S. on your list, if you don't mind.) Most of all, I'm thankful that the church community is there to pray for one another (they've prayed for me as I grieved my relative, and had my wreck, and now we're praying for Joyce....) and support each other through love and prayer. This has been front and center for me these past couple of weeks, and the Christian love I've felt, esp. when I felt like I was all alone bc my relatives have all passed away, is just overwhelming, even in the face of tragedy.
@Fru-gal Lisa, I'm glad you are feeling supported in a difficult time.
@Fru-gal Lisa, you've been dealing with a lot. While I don't participate in prayer, know that I will be sending positive vibes out into the universe for Joyce S. And for you! We are all in this together.
* The weather. It is a gorgeous, mild mid 70's with a breeze. Makes working so enjoyable.
*My new steers. Watching them become acclimated to the fields and barns. So fun!
*for planting the vegetable and flower gardens.
The best neighbor in the world, sharing his expertise and advice on so many things!
He is helping me tackle a huge downed tree. Priceless!
@Blue Gate Farmgirl, well, I'll arm-wrestle you on the "best neighbor in the world," since I'm convinced I've got the best ones in Dr. and Ms. Bestest Neighbor (see my comment above). But I'm glad you've got such a good one. We all get by with a little--no, a lot of--help from our friends.
I am so thankful for:
The YMCA. Our city has a great Y. We use so many of their services. My husband works out regularly at the Y. Our kids learned/are learning to swim there. We do after school care and summer camps through the Y. They seem to have so many family support services we need. I know that is the result of many decades of work by many hands. I appreciate every one of them.
My husband. Not only do we run a household together, but we also run a business together. It is smooth sailing almost all of the time. A couple days ago we disagreed about the amount of an upcoming distribution. I grew up in a household where every time my parents disagreed, daddy stomped around like a toddler until mama just let him have his way. I am so grateful that in my household my husband and I talked it through, discussing how we both felt and why. Later we came back together, and he honestly acknowledged that he was reacting out of emotion and that I had a good point. It is such a blessing to have a partner who is mentally and emotionally healthy.
The normalcy of online meetings. I teach in person, and wouldn't have it any other way. But for so many meetings--short meetings, meetings that are mostly a presentation, etc.--Zoom is just so much more efficient. I love that society (at least my corner of it) seems to be settling into a good sense of when it makes sense to meet in person and when it makes sense to meet online.
I've been thinking of you and hoping for a good day for you yesterday and today!
This week I'm thankful:
* that my middle kiddo graduates from kindergarten this afternoon! I used to think kindergarten graduations were silly, but my oldest missed out on it because it was during the COVID lock down, so now I feel like, "Yes! Let's do all the kindergarten graduation things!"
* for all the planning our school puts into making the end of the year special.
* for cold brew coffee in the summer.
* for the way the third grade parents have bonded since we went to third grade camp with our kiddos.
* for one final day of just me and my youngest kiddo before the bigs are home for summer break.
You have such a great way of finding even more positive in the positive---like with not only enjoying your daughter's extended time living with you, but recognizing that there are many parents who never will get that with their child.
1. Thankful for summer's first rain, even though that meant the temps were back into the mid and low 30s.
2. For the lobster the husband brought home even though it was not on the grocery list. I love lobster and he is totally indifferent to it, so he really was thinking of me when he bought it.
3. For pound hound, who is so affectionate, even if it sometimes a bit much. We were lying on the couch next to each other, taking up all of the space. He wanted to be part of the party so his jumped his 70 pound body up and laid on top of us.
4. For excellent health insurance.
5. For electricity. It was off for a few hours and I was reminded of how much easier it makes life.
@Lindsey, I'd give a lot for a photo of you, the husband, and Pound Hound all piled up on the sofa together. And although I know that you've gotten out of the chicken business ahead of your planned trip this fall, I hope (and knowing you, am certain) that Pound Hound will be spending the trip time in comfortable accommodations.
That blue color on those scrubs is striking, go you!
This week I am thankful for the early morning sun signaling summer is around the corner.
For good health as I feel perimenopause creeping around me.
For my houseplants that add a touch of natural beauty and freshness to our home.
For my family and interesting, funny conversations during dinner time.
For payday since I get paid my salary once a month.
Scrubs: I have transitioned from all white to multi-colors in my lifetime. I am thankful I was able to make my tops rather than buy them because it allowed me to choose seasonal prints that the nursing home residents seem to enjoy. I never got the hang of fitting a decent pants pattern but was thankful to find two brands that fit well (except for length, almost always an issue when you are 4'11").
Thankful to have finally gotten my veggie plants planted. Had no idea what tomato plant varieties I had as I ended up with some after our Master Gardener plant sale. Eight and no two alike. Well, this will be a fun experiment! Same with peppers, I do like jalapenos, but for the most part prefer the fruity flavored ones. Still have two annual color pots to plant, some in-ground color for pollinators as well as perennial natives. So thankful I can work in the dirt. It is very therapeutic.
Thankful for friends who help in time of need. I have enjoyed the 70' weather with windows open and cross breezes, but yesterday it got up into the high 80's. One of dear brethren and his son came and put in the window AC unit. My home is small and it provided almost instant relief esp. for my dog, Molly.
Finally, I am thankful for the lifetime I had with my Aunt Ruth. She was witty, never knew a stranger, worked in retail for years. She helped keep that side of the family history. After my parents died, she never forgot a birthday, get-well, or thinking of you card. I am thankful that I took opportunities to visit with her. She passed this last Friday after a long and full life, leaving three great daughters and two granddaughters and a great granddaughter on the way.
I wish my nursing school uniform had looked that good. When I started 20 years ago, we were the last graduating class to wear the dowdy white uniform, white stockings and shoes, and the starched white cap. The patients loved the caps, but they were such a pain to wear. We had a uniform burning party after graduation.
I'm dealing with a sick child today myself so one reason I couldn't post until now.
I'm thankful that she's okay (just sick) but also thankful that she has many more years of living at home. I can't even imagine what it must be like with Kristen facing an empty nest with three no longer living with her and only one left (whose days at home I'm sure are numbered.)
I personally through a host of reasons lived at home until I was in my mid 20s. I saved a lot of money up that way and it's one reason I was able to buy my house and all that. I do think it caused me other issues, though.
Aww, you look cute in scrubs. I guess you ain't no scrub. 😉
Oh congratulations!!! On striving and reaching with the nursing degree (you will be the kind of nurse we all wish we had!). For graduating your last through home education. My hat's off to you, I just launched my first homeschooled one....three more to go. For being able to joyfully watch another daughter begin a new adventure.
This week I'm thankful for (road trip edition)
1. The funds (from LOTS of frugal habits) that have made a 2-week family trip over the US possible.
2. For a reliable car and the national infrastructure that make it possible for us to see wonders like Rushmore, Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon safely and easily. I've been daily reminded of the great sacrifices the early explorers and settlers made to enable it.
3. For the opportunity to explore these wonders with my family while we're all still healthy and young enough to enjoy it easily.
4. For GPS and good phone cameras. No hauling bulky photography materials!
5. For a kind neighbor and in-laws that are watching over our home and pets.
6. For a little time away to think and get some much-needed big picture perspective back.
Thankful my Instant Pot & air fryer had dinner done in record time this week.
So nice to sit on our deck and not get ate by skeeters!
Thankful the temp has been in the 80's in the evening, no humidity at all. Perfect for sitting on the back deck.
I took an hour off work to take care of my long list of phone calls I have been putting off for WEEKS! Eek! I am so thankful that is done.
It really has been a crappy health week in general but my oldest sent me videos of the grands that totally cracked me up all week long.
That my BIL is still alive. Just diagnosed with lung cancer so very tough week for the family. He is such a kind person.
Thankful the house my sister is buying was appraised for less and the seller accepted the appraised value price so that saved her 5k.
On a side note-wearing scrubs must make it really each to pick your outfit for work each day! 🙂
I’m glad you’re able to see the bright side of Lisey going to Hawaii. I’m afraid I would not be too joyful if my daughter and her husband relocated to Hawaii. I get a bit panicky when they talk about new job opportunities that might lead to them moving since it’s nice to have my only daughter just an hour away. One of our boys has lived in Florida for 5 years and he recently took a totally remote job so I think I will see more of him now. Nice to see your cup half full instead of half empty-something I need to be reminded of from time to time.
Last week I had the opportunity to go to the Isabella Gardner Art Museum. It was a free trip offered by the town senior center. Two days before the event, I asked if I could go on the list if someone cancelled out at the last minute.....and I was very lucky. Free trip, free guided tour, free boxed lunch.
On this blog posting day, the weather was hot and nice. I took my grandson to the beach. Then when we came back to my house, he went swimming in the pool with his cousins.
I feel so fortunate to live within 45 minutes drive of many water locations--ocean, bay, rivers.
Kristen, I hope you have a peaceful and relaxing summer.
Your bright blue nurse’s uniform would cheer up any patient! It’s almost as bright as your smile!
I’m thankful to receive your emails today. I was beginning to worry about you but worries drive me to prayer, so you’ve been lifted in prayers over the weekend:)
I’m thankful for extra time for my husband and me to spend time with our grandson. We have a few longer visits with him coming up this week and next.
It’s so cool to see how quickly he is changing and how his personality is developing.
So thankful for s as ll the sunny weather, morning birdsong and evening tree frog serenades.
congrats to you and lissey. u look fab in your scrubs. a real fashionista!!! so exciting. and i c a vaction to hawaii in your future. all the best.
I am very excited about your student scrubs too! What a big achievement! 🙂
I thought that scrubs were scrubs and was surprised to learn there are ones for students.
You will be a great nurse!
Kristen - I love, Love, LOVE when you share your reframing of a situation! There are days when I really struggle to do that, and these posts help me to gather myself and dig deep for a silver lining.
My FFT:
- I am finally sleeping like a normal human being again after juggling jet lag for a couple weeks
- The county has been re-digging the culverts on our street. I lined mine with weed barrier fabric and river rock a few years ago, and was afraid I would need to remove it all. But the head of the crew said I was good to go! Whew!
- I’ve been having some blood oxygenation issues at high altitude, but am not in any imminent health danger. While I’m sad that this won’t be my final landing place, I’m so very thankful my iWatch alerted me to the problem, and that my pulmonologist was able to confirm it’s just living in the mountains that is causing me trouble.There could have been really serious health ramifications for me if I just went about my business unaware that altitude was not my friend!
- I was able to find a rental home a few thousand feet lower than where I am currently living, which I can slowly move to over the course of this month
- For my little shih tzu who is always ready to cuddle and cheer me when I need it most
You will L O V E wearing scrubs!!