Thankful Thursday | Injection #1: done!
This week, I am thankful:
that I got to give an injection this week
I had only ever done injections in the lab, in a fake practice sponge, and I felt rather terrified of giving an injection to a human being.
But this week in clinical, I did it! I was nervous, but it went fine, and I think I will be less nervous next time.
Getting over the hump of the first one is the tough part, I think (I hope!).
I think a lot of things will be easier next week; now I know how to use the hospital documentation system, I know how to use their vital signs machines, I know where things are located on that floor...I'm just gonna have my feet under me a little better next week.
that I've managed to walk almost every day, despite rainy weather
It's been a bit wet here, but by working around the weather (and also by just committing to getting a bit soggy some days), I've still been able to do a lot of walking this week.
I try to remember...without the rain, we will not have the green scenery that I love so much.
for a sunny Sunday
It was a lovely day on Sunday...warm and sunny, and I got out to enjoy it!
for perks of afternoon/evening clinical hours
Given my druthers, I'd have chosen the shift that starts at 7 am. But I can see upsides of my shift (which starts at 1:00 pm)...I have time to get in a walk, a workout, a shower, some schoolwork, some blog work, and still have plenty of time to pack a dinner meal before I leave.
After my shower, I just throw on my scrub pants and the long-sleeve shirt I wear under my scrub top. And I wait until right before I leave to put on my actual scrub top.
No, "what should I wear?" dilemmas at all. 😉
for Facebook Marketplace
Sonia just had a birthday, and I was wanting to get her a Tiffany-style lamp for one of her presents. Sooo, I poked around on Facebook Marketplace for a while, and I found this little lamp!
Isn't it just so cute? I love the miniature style of it.
I love that Facebook Marketplace makes it so easy to find things like this.
(And don't worry; I already gave the lamp to Sonia. I'm not putting birthday spoilers up here. 😉 )
that we are almost halfway through the semester
Next week is week eight, and since the semester is 16 weeks, that means we are nearly halfway through. Woohoo!
Also: that means spring break is coming up, and as much as I love school, I'm excited about a bit of time off.
for a great grade on last week's exam
I can't remember if I told you guys, but I got 49/50 on the last OB/Women's Health exam, which I took last Thursday. Yay!
OB is my wheelhouse. 🙂
I love that lamp!
I'm thankful:
*for butchering day. It's hard work, but it's TRADITION in a big way. And it's community. And it's watching my children be capable. I was so proud of them. Some folks at butchering are getting older and need others to step up. My kids did that.
*that my brother-in-law and his family came for a visit. When she saw I was making scrambled eggs for breakfast, my 3-year-old niece told me, "You're the best!"
*for a day with my sons today. Well, two of them. The amblyopia boy has his eye appointment today. After that, the two boys will help watch my niece's sons when she gives me a massage to see if it will help my shoulder problems.
*that our new chickens are in their newly finished coop finally.
*for the coming spring.
*that I actually have time to comment this morning. That's not been the case lately, and probably I shouldn't for a few months of upcoming busy times.
@Jody S., does amblyopia involve patching the strong eye? (I wore a patch in first grade.)
My daughter had amblyopia. She didn't have a patch but she did have to wear bifocals from the age of three.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, Yes. He has been faithfully patching a few hours each day, and it is improving. But, according to the doctor, his time is quickly running out for more improvement because he is 10 years old.
I am thankful this week that we were able to drive to Florida and back without issue (from WV). We had a safe and enjoyable trip and the weather did a lot for my soul and health. And we started our spring bike riding. Came home to a lot of blooming flowers and trees because of the warm weather here. Unfortunately, the weather is back to the way it is supposed to be in spring: rain and cool. But like Kristen said, the plants and flowers need the water.
Thankful that my daughter made another trip around the sun this week. I can't believe she is 37!!! Time certainly does fly!
Thankful that my husband gets up and makes coffee everyday. For over 30 years, I was the one putting together the coffee pot and making coffee. It's nice that a retiree can do it now before I get up. LOL
Thankful that I have a job that I've had for 32 years and that 21 of those have been at home. I really, really want to retire, but I would have to get health insurance so I am sort of stuck here. I have very nice people on my team that I enjoy working with except for 1 person. I have to learn to overlook her habits because I need the health insurance for 2 more years. Now back to work!
Here's is hoping everyone has a good week ahead!
@Maureen, there's always that one person....I constantly am giving myself an attitude adjustment pep talk about one of my co-workers ...I'm thankful I love the rest of them!
@Marlena,
Sadly, for me, that one person is (ahem) *my boss*. She's horrendous. I'm hoping I can hang in there for three more years until I retire.
@Maureen, My priest told me it's the husband's job to make the coffee; it's right there in the Bible -- HeBrews.
It's a terrible joke, and I love it. :p
@Roberta, interestingly enough on our church campus there is a bookstore with coffee shop named HeBrews. FYI
Thankful for:
A healthy delivery of a great niece.
A good speech therapy visit for the youngest. He tried to copy her, just couldn't make the sounds but was full of laughter with their game.
The ability to go grocery shopping without having to track every dollar as I put it in my cart.
Nice weather. Spending a lot of time outside and being able to open the windows up.
I like to get out every day though I don't walk on ice or when a tree/branches could fall on my head. A friend that spent two weeks hiking in Scotland, on a lot of wet days, told me "There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing".
I am thankful for spring like weather. It is a bit early and the implications for the planet not so great but I am enjoying it. We have had a lot of rain but I remind myself that it is better than a drought (or snow). The daffodils are beautiful.
I am thankful for upcoming travel plans to see friends and family. I was able to use Hilton Honors points for a hotel stay that would have otherwise been very expensive.
I am thankful for group texting. Sometimes it is the crazy stuff that brings joy. This week there is a discussion among my siblings about jelly beans (the various varieties they like/dislike such as spiced, Starbusrt, etc.). Four of us are in our sixities and one is mid-fifties.
I am thankful for Freecycle. I was able to give away expired ibuprofen and some food we were not going to eat.
@K D, my two sisters and I are all in our 30’s and we have also discussed jelly bean merits in our group text, who knew it was such a popular topic!
Many good school things for you this week. Good work.
Thankfuls . . .
--That I don't have to sub at school today. I was supposed to sub yesterday and today for a teacher who had surgery scheduled. Then she got sick, so I subbed for her on Tuesday instead, she had to cancel her surgery, she came back yesterday, and I am off the hook for today. YAY. My mother-in-law is coming for a week's stay on Saturday, and I REALLY need to clean my house.
--For, again, flexibility in my husband's schedule so he could, again, be home with sick children (AGAIN) this week when I had to work.
--For our spring break, that starts when school lets out early at 2 p.m. today. So looking forward to not cajoling five people out of bed in the morning. I get up on my own really early, so I'm talking about the five other people in my house. 🙂
--For the new track coach, who is young and enthusiastic. Middle son loves to run, and this is his first year doing track. I'm glad he has a track coach he likes. It was definitely time for our previous track coach to retire from it, after I think thirty years.
--That the recovery for eldest son's second surgery has not been as painful as the first. He can start putting a bit of weight on his foot this week, he'll start physical therapy in a couple of weeks, and he should be fully functional and ready to work by the end of school in May.
--For an understanding foot doctor, who does the final post-surgical appointment via video call so we don't have to drive 300 miles for a three-minute visit. We're the first he's ever done this for, so I hope he'll continue offering it as an option when he can for other people who are coming long distances.
@kristin @ going country, regarding sick AGAIN children—my excellent ENT told me that children have been sicker and more often for the past two years. Doctors are blaming the COVID lockdown. Kids lost two years of normal immune system building.
@kristin @ going country, hope your son wil continue to recover well!
@kristin @ going country, there's NOTHING like a mil's impending visit to get your off your tush to clean your house lol!!
Love the cute lamp! I found a hanging Tiffany style light at flee market last summer for $20 that my dad is going to add the wiring to be hung & plugged in. My aunt (in Florida) bought 2 bigger lights (similar flowers) at (moving) neighbor yard sale last year. Tiffany style lights are so elegant & pretty looking.
Thankful teen on mend from illness. Still weak but getting better.
Thankful for the sunshine (always) before the predicted rain next few days.
Thankful for supportive & understanding coworkers.
Thankful for rescue dogs who have been watching over teen during sickness. Giving loves & snuggles.
Thankful for my pantry & freezer which has kept us (mostly) fed while I was not able to get to store for almost month. Love that stocking up on items we use while on sale enables us to not starve when life is unpredictable.
Thankful for ability to have safe home/shelter, food & good living conditions. Sometimes people forget how blessed/lucky we are to have everyday life compared to others.
Have a great day everyone! 🙂
45 years ago, when I was medical technologist in training, I had to learn to draw blood (from real people, who were sick, and who hated it and much as I hated it). Although I eventually was able to do it, I never liked it. The manager of the program told me that I had to get over the fear of causing people pain (with the needle). Seems like a quaint idea in today's world.
Congratulations on your first successful injection. It will become easier and easier as time goes on.
@Bell, re your blood DRAW it took an extrarodinary number of years to get through to techs that another person had found the perfect solution for my abominable veins was to use the butterfly normally used for infants and small children. Voila when they opened their ears. They and I are now so much happier.\thanks for listening to my rant.
This was a lovely post to read, Kristen, so many wonderful things happening in your life. <3
This week I am thankful for:
1) New friends. We have been in our new-to-us community for seven years, and after much effort, now have a lovely circle of friends, but we continue to reach out when we meet new people who have energy that seems to go well with ours. Yesterday we walked to the beach for lunch with a new couple, and we all had a really delightful time, including at the end when we had to make a mad dash back to the house to avoid rain amidst laughter.
I have to add that as our friendship circle ages, and diseases begin to strike, continuing to expand our friendship circle outward seems the most positive thing we can do try and buffer the inevitable.
2) Trimmed trees. We have a Blue Water view protection ordinance in our HOA CC&R's, but it's no fun having to enforce them, so I was thrilled when a neighbor trimmed a large tree this week, hugely opening up our ocean view.
3). The ocean. I try to stop and appreciate it in some form each and every day. It grounds me and opens a doorway into serenity for me in a way I don't fully understand, but thoroughly appreciate.
4) Pomelos. A dear friend gave me three of them, and after cutting and cutting through the rind of the first one, finally got to the surprisingly sweet flesh. What a wonderful treat this different kind of grapefruit is!
5) My mom. I didn't expect this jog in the road at this time of life, but having her temporarily living with us while she awaits escrow on her new, downsized condo, has been lovely for both my husband and I. She is trying so hard to fit in and not be a burden it makes me smile. And she's so excited and appreciative about the changes in her life it makes me humble.
@Tamara R,
your thankful list is beautiful to read! All about connection and simply stop for a moment to enjoy nature's beauty
Thankful for :
*Special Olympics, which gives my kiddo a chance to play sports. And the teachers who dedicate their time to give these kids a time to shine.
*my big sister, who made a beautiful pink quilt for the silent auction at the special olympics fundraiser tonight.
*my colleagues at work who listened to me vent over some very frustrating situations this week.
*the cathedral in my diocese. We were there for child's confirmation, and the church is a work of art. Glorious colors, amazing stained-glass windows. Made the day even more special.
@mbmom11,
I just adore churches and cathedrals that have stained glass windows. Yesterday, I had to drive out to a nearby town to pick up a clock from a Buy Nothing member, and their home is across the street from a quaint, small church with the prettiest stained glass windows...not super fancy, but so pretty.
Great score on the lamp, Kristen! And I'm delighted (as I'm sure we all are) that your clinicals and your latest exams are going so well.
My main thankful this week is for my next-door neighbor's (NDN's) longtime accountant and tax preparer. While I don't want to go into detail, I finally got in touch with this gentleman myself yesterday, after a series of delays and conflicting stories on NDN's part. Long story short, he's not only willing but relieved to have help from NDN's other close friend (CF) and me in pulling together NDN's tax paperwork, despite the fact that neither CF nor I have power of attorney for NDN. (It did help that the accountant lived on NDN's and my street as a boy; when I mentioned that I'm NDN's neighbor, this made things much easier!)
@A. Marie, oh how I wish I were your neighbor!
@A. Marie,
Your neighbor is very, very fortunate to have someone like you and CF to help! Bless you!
@A. Marie, Isn't it odd to be having children you knew now be old enough to be professionals? My husband's eye doctor is a kid we knew when he lived in the same extremely remote village we did. I should say was a kid...how could he have grown up, gone to med school, and opened his own practice when the husband and I have not aged in the slightest!?
@Lindsey, as Jane Austen said about one of her nephews (the one who ended up writing her first biography): "He is getting very near our own age, for WE do not grow older, of course."
@A. Marie,
You are the Bestest Neighbor. Your NDN (and all of your lovely neighbors) are so blessed to have you as part of their community/extended family.
Excellent score on the lamp!!! I’ve a deep love for stained glass and plan to gradually fill our house with it as budget and lucky finds allow. My husband and I like to joke that one of the many reasons we zeroed in on our tiny house is that less square footage means we can afford to decorate it the way we want. 😛
Speaking of which, I’ve a BIG thankful this week. Our very not frugal ($$$$) crawlspace insulation work came with a free inspection after a year. I asked the customer service rep if the appointment could be moved up to six months, as some city street work outside the house had given it several jolts while concrete was broken through, large equipment was dropped and/or parked outside, grumble grumble. The crawlspace/foundation company had done a complete assessment of the entire house with measurements, etc., so I knew they could compare numbers and condition to make sure we had nothing worse than some cracked plaster (which I already repaired myself). The company was glad to oblige. The inspector found that our paid work is doing exactly what it's supposed to, all our measurements are the same, and the free inspection found no surprises from the month-long street shenanigans. (The construction work began RIGHT after our crawlspace work, so it was six months all around—plenty of time for problems to show.) Since any damage would mean more work/money for the company any question, they’re “You’re all good!” carries weight. What a relief!!!! I am quite serious when I say the house SHOOK several times during the aforementioned street work. Blessed be our little 1890s house--they don't build them like this anymore.
@N, For the record, friends in the trades had voluntarily checked out the house post-road work and were confident we were in the clear. However, they also encouraged me to bump up the free inspection to have the actual numbers compared for peace of mind. My trades friends are firm believers in the "If it were my home, what would I want/do?" rule and always advise accordingly. <3
@N, I fully expect you to figure out how to make your own stained glass projects. 😎
A friend of mine gives stained glass classes in upstate NY at the Roycroft campus. I really need to take some time and go. Always wanted to make my own.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, While I greatly appreciate your confidence, there are certain things I know better than to put my worn hands through. 😉 I'm fortunate enough to have several friends who do amazing stained glass windows; I'm saving up to support their talents, with thrifted finds to fill in the gaps.
@Rose,
Same, I'd love to learn how to make stained glass windows/decor. An acquaintance of mine is an art teacher, and made a beautiful hanging sign that has their house numbers on it (it hangs near their front door outside). I'd love to make something like that for my house.
Big Looooooove for tiny lamp!!!!!
Love the lamp!
I'm thankful that DD's blood pressure is almost back to normal. Hopefully the postpartum hypertension will be completely resolved by 6-weeks post birth.
I'm thankful that my 90-year-old MIL got to meet her great-grandson and we got pictures of 4 generations of my husband's family.
I'm thankful that most mornings I get baby snuggles before work. I go by very early in the morning to take a shift with the newborn so DD and SIL can get a little more sleep.
I'm thankful for all the springtime blooming plants.
I'm thankful that there was a cancellation, so I have my first PT appointment today with my favorite therapist.
The original Tiffany lamp would have been called a boudoir lamp. I have one about the same size, with the blue wisteria design (see here https://ibb.co/ckxfjtg ) instead of poinsettia. Lucky girl!
This week I am thankful:
That the puppy thing is working out OK! I was so nervous calling on Monday but everything is all right. My son is about 4 hours away from the pickup. I also get nervous when he has a long drive, because I'm a mom, I guess. So far so good!
That once again, we're making good progress on my house/the cottage. I am so glad I buckled down and had some things done that I've been putting off, such as replacing old rusty window hardware in the sunroom, which has 18 windows.
It's staying a little lighter, a little brighter and a little warmer out.
I feel very joyful this week. Happiness is a warm puppy.
@Rose, So glad you saved the puppy-dog! May you have many years of happiness with your new pet.
@Rose, wonderful that you will have the new pup! Do tell us about its anctics in the time to come
@Rose, that lamp is muy fabuloso!
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, It belonged to my great grandmother. I think it's from the 60s.
It's only when you see the original Tiffany wisteria lamps that you think....mmmm not so much on mine. ha! Like this bad boy which you could pick up for $100,000 or so.
https://www.artnet.com/artists/tiffany-studios/pony-wisteria-table-lamp-dP4s42ZLEdTjAJY-y4ETXg2
@Rose,
Such a cool lamp! Even of it's not "real" Tiffany. Lol. And the NEW PUPPY IS COMING! Sorry to shout. Got a little excited there. 🙂
I love the lamp - I'll bet Sonia did, too. When I was a teen, I was allowed to use Top Value stamps (does that date me?) to buy a Tiffany-style hanging lamp for my bedroom. It was still hanging in my old room when my parents' house burned, or I would have that lamp now. Since I am a stained glass fan, my youngest and I took a long, one-day trip to Fairhope AL to an architectural rescue shop and purchased two stained glass church window sections to hang way up in the two small gable windows of our current house, which we were then building. A carpenter working on the house used wood scraps from building our staircase to put frames around the stained glasses and hung them for us in the windows while the painters had the scaffolding up, all for free. So there's a good memory and a thankful. I still smile every time I see the sun pouring through the stained glass.
1. I'm thankful for the 8th birthday last Saturday of one granddaughter and the 10th birthday of her sister, coming up next Monday.
2. Maybe it's been the excess rain we had, but I'm thankful for the unprecedented carpet of wild violets that appeared in my back yard. Violets are the flower for my birth month; I think they are so pretty.
3. I'm thankful that my little garden beds are growing. The greens are really looking -and tasting - good.
4. I'm thankful that I finally have mulberry blossoms on my mulberry plants. I bought them as live plants about six inches tall and I'm keeping them trimmed back to bush height. This is the first year I've seen blooms and I'm thrilled, as I love mulberries - assuming I can net the animals out of them.
5. I picked the first ripe loquat and ate it this morning. It will be a fight to beat the squirrels and crows, but I usually get some loquats. This tree is too big to net.
@JD, another violet lover here! Your post made me smile.
@Dee in AZ, ditto.
@JD, I want a mulberry plant so much! I'm waiting til I get in my forever house to plant some. Enjoy!
@JD, my mother not only used to save Top Value stamps, but would let each of us four kids in turn pick a prize every time she had X number of books. Needless to say, she had lots of willing child labor on the licking and sticking of stamps!
@A. Marie, Never heard of Top Value -- for us it was S & H Green Stamps that Mom would get at the grocery store checkout. When I was setting up my first apartment she let me have all her books of stamps so I got an avocado green rolling cart for my kitchen. I wonder what ever happened to that? I know I don't still have it....
@JDinNM, Wikipedia says "Top Value ceased operations in the early 1980s, after which S&H would accept ... unredeemed Top Value books, before S&H itslef also ceased business."
@JDinNM,
If I remember correctly, Top Value stamps were yellow. They used the lick 'em and stick 'em books, which was a task for us kids, as A. Marie noted. I never saw S&H stamps, but I did hear about them somehow. Those days are sure gone, aren't they?
@JDinNM,
Yep, my mom got the S & H Green Stamps when I was a kid! I have zero recollection of what she acquired with them...maybe kitchen things?.
@JDinNM, don't forget Gold Bond - think that was the name. Not as popular as S&H Green Stamps however. I too remember both. It was a big deal when you got enough to fill one page, much less multiple pages.
@Selena, by the 70s I do believe it was all Blue Chip stamps on the west coast. It felt to me like they pushed S&H out.
Our local art museum has an exhibition of Tiffany lamps. So beautiful.
Grateful my son is home, that we were able to meet up with my siblings and spouses for coffee, that my college roommate who lives 3 hours away is in town for a conference and we can meet up for lunch, that my daughter is closer to making a college decision, and that my kittens are a constant source of entertainment.
Thankful that exactly two months after our flood work has finally begun on our home.
Thankful and hopeful that repairs will only last 6 weeks and we will be home by mid April. I am just desperate to be home.
Thankful for the friendship and support of one of my trainers who is such a blessing to me trying to manage anxiety, stress, etc while still helping me stay consistent in my workouts.
Thankful for the resilience of my body. Even with all of the stress & anxiety this time has brought I am still doing 3-4 bootcamps a week, eating healthy, working on better sleep, and doing my best to try and get some self care in.
And my biggest thankful is for the random lady that God sat beside me in the nail salon this past weekend. She is also caring for an elderly mother and had lots of information on adult day care, respite care, and community resources. She was the answer to so many of my prayers that lately I have not been able to even utter. I am in awe at the way that He orchestrates things to provide what we need as we go along.
Happy Thursday all!
@Angie, That's wonderful, Angie. I hired a lawyer with a geriatric specialty to help me all through that for my mother. Of course, my mom didn't listen to half the ideas, while my sister and I banged our heads on the wall, but not much you can do when someone is in their right mind.
Kristen, you seem to be taking to nursing like a duck takes to water. You're a natural at it! And what an adorable lamp! Happy belated birthday, Miss Sonia!
1. My state participated in Super Tuesday. I voted in Early Voting so I didn't have to stand in a long line; I am thankful for that. But I want to say I'm thankful for, and give a big shoutout to, the election workers. They have to work long hours and I've read where some of them around the country have suffered harassment, so much so I'd be scared to do that job. IMO, election workers are unsung heroes who make our democracy work.
2. That I (finally) got the paperwork/billing statement for the monthly payment on my Kia. WHEW! I believe I told you all that Kia Finance America got my address wrong and was sending my statements to the wrong street. (How can they be that careless?????) For that reason, I'm comparing rates at the various local credit unions (all of which are lower rates than Kia gave me) and will be refinancing soon.
3. That I've gotten more substitute teaching gigs. This week was Spring Break -- no work, no pay. I have extra days and extra hours working retail this week. It doesn't pay as much. But we're back to normal starting on Monday.
4. My old, sick doggie is still alive and we got some quality time this week while I was off.
Her tumor is now about golf ball size. But she doesn't seem to be in pain.
5. I paid off a credit card. So I'm debt-free except for the car.
@Fru-gal Lisa, way to go on that credit card, and excellent plan to refinance through a local credit union. A friend recently bought a giant 5th wheel, and when she told the salesman that she was paying for it in full, not financing it, he said, "Then how are we supposed to make any money on this deal??"
@Fru-gal Lisa, hugs to you and your good doggie girl. And congrats on paying off the credit card!
@Fru-gal Lisa, Just chiming in to endorse and thank you for your comment about our brave election workers.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, Ha! "That sounds like a you problem."
Love the lamp!
I got laid off this week, so it's been a journey. Still many things to be grateful for.
1) That we have more than enough money to manage this. I almost quit last summer, so I just try to remind myself that staying longer, despite how it ended, bought us a lot more financial flexibility.
2) My sister & I ran a half marathon with our 71 year old mom this one. She crushed it. Finished in the top of her age group. She's a huge inspiration. Grateful I'm healthy enough to do this, that my mom & sister are both healthy enough for this, and that we all enjoy each other enough to do a trip together.
3) Super grateful that we have enough money saved to pay for both boys college. I have a junior and senior in high school, so I can't imagine worrying about that right now, after the layoffs.
4) I've had a huge number of colleagues reach out to connect, and I appreciate them to so much. It was really hard not to get a chance to say goodbye, so it feels so nice when people reach out.
5) For an incredibly supportive husband.
@Hawaii Planner, So sorry about what sounds like a bad end to your job. I wish you luck as you figure out what happens next.
@Hawaii Planner, I hope that your layoff seemingly a disaster will be a blessing in disguise. Layoff happened to me late in my career and quite surprisingly, within four months I began the best job I ever had. Both in terms of utilizing my skills and in doing good. This time next year May you look back at 2024 and laugh.
@Hawaii Planner, Even if you have money saved, and you know it's nothing personal, it sucks to be laid off. Happened to me twice in the last five years and I'd never lost a job before. Whatcha gonna do. Give yourself a little time to process it all.
@Hawaii Planner, take care, and I hope you will soon have a new job you would not think of quitting!
@Hawaii Planner, now you can be home more!
@Hawaii Planner, I'm sorry about the layoff. But it's good that you have so many positives to cushion the blow. Best wishes on your next steps, whatever those may be.
@A. Marie, It sounds like her next steps might be another half-marathon!
@Hawaii Planner, getting laid off is a tough transition - I know many great talented people who have had similar experiences. Corporate America astounds me with poor decisions. Glad you have a cushion and the support/admiration of work colleagues- that means a lot.
@Hawaii Planner, So sorry to hear this. After all that travel you did for them! Companies are so ungrateful….which may go without saying.
But I’ve known more than a few people who, after being laid off, found a job they love and wonder what made them wait so long to leave.
Take time to process this setback (or gift?) during a Spring staycation.
@Hawaii Planner, I'm sorry about the job, but I'll bet something better shows up 🙂
@Hawaii Planner, I am sorry you got laid off. I have been "let go" twice without being able to speak for myself and it IS painful. Praying that just the right solution is on the horizon.
@Hawaii Planner,
I can only echo what others have said....I'm so sorry the lay-off happened to you. I feel certain a great new opportunity will present itself when the time is right.
Oh my goodness, I am so sorry to hear of your layoff.
I know you will land on your feet with your skills and your work history, but still, this has got to suck.
What a beautiful lamp!
I'm grateful for a fun evening bowling and going for dinner with some friends. Grateful for beautiful weather today and a walk on the beach. Grateful that spring is here!
I love the lamp. I bought a stained glass lamp off FBMP last year and it's one of my favorite things in my house.
Thankful for walks with my son. He's been walking with me, and it's nice to have time to just chat about nothing.
My sourdough starter hasn't died and I'm finally making decent bread.
For the day of sunshine we had between all this rain!
For time change coming this weekend! I have a hard time waking up in the dark.
My husband got a raise at work.
Way to go, Kristen, on your test and giving that first shot! I gave allergy shots to our dog and cat for two years and feel relatively accomplished at doing sub cu on critters. The cat was not good about his shots and made it rather exciting. 😀
Today I am thankful for a lunch date yesterday with my college besties-- 43 years of deep friendship is a blessing. Also thankful for excellent results on last week's blood tests, my "report card" after losing a lot of excess weight and weaning off three of five prescription medications. Extra thankful for sunshine after a dreary start to the week, that our rescued pup is calming down nicely and learning good manners commands, and that my quince hedge is blooming. It's a reliable sign that the earth is warming up and spring is truly here.
@Ruby, congratulations on the weight loss and the prescription losses too!
Pretty lamp!
My thankfuls this week:
-that I can afford my house, food, car, and cat
-that said, I'm thankful that tomorrow is payday!
-that I got my work project as complete as it needed to be last night
- that my work hours are flexible and allow for naps
- that it's spring break next week!
This week I am thankful for:
• I was able to chaperone my son’s band trip to Chicago last weekend. It was a real gift to be able to watch him experience this trip and being able to see his band put on a performance at the Field Museum was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
• We finally have a move-in date for our new house and a closing date for our current house. This month is going to be BUSY but we have been looking forward to this for months!
• My doctor has a few ideas on what to do for my cough that has been lingering since October. I have high hopes for the new plan.
• I was able to spend a lot of time outside while in Chicago and all the sunshine was much needed and very welcome.
• My most recent audiobooks have been very entertaining and keeping me motivated while packing up our house.
• This weekly exercise! Yesterday I had my days mixed up and I started thinking about all the things I was thankful for and it put me in a great mood. Once I got on my computer I realized it was only Wednesday and I would have to wait a day, but I was already in a great mindset.
Great job on the injection, which can’t be easy to do, and probably has an art to it that you acquire with practice.
Speaking of art, the Tiffany lamp is an adorable find. You have the best BN group!
I’m thankful for PT right now. Where would we all be without these wonderful medical people who get us back on our feet so efficiently? A friend had a knee replacement and they had him walking right after surgery.
Super thankful that both DSs married lovely girls who add soo much to our family. Both are talented hard workers in their fields, as are the boys, and we are grateful for them all.
@Erika JS,
I had a knee replacement last November, and I agree with you 100% about Physical Therapists. Mine is terrific!
Congratulations on Sonia's birthday! The lamp is lovely and just something for her-
This week I am thankful
*that our eldest cat is still around, despite health problems, we love him dearly
*that I plucked up courage to ask something that was important to me
*that my family encouraged me
*that the weeks of nerves I felt before I made the request are now behind me
*that we can learn from past experience and not get into exactly similar situations again
I do not know why it is so hard to ask something for ourselves when we would not hesitate to ask something for our family or friends but there it is. And I bought myself flowers because I deserve them 🙂
@JNL, maybe you would like the book recommended by AF in Virginia (in her Meet a Reader post) called "Ask For It". I bought it after reading her post, and it is languishing on my To-Be-Read stack. If we were neighbors, I'd lend it to you!
@Central Calif. Artist Jana,
Thanks for recommending! I'll note the title for my to read pile-
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, That might go in the Books I Haven't Read But the Title Is Enough list. (That said, I don't have problems Asking for It. You don't ask, you don't get.)
Years ago, my former life coach could not stop laughing when she was mentioning self help books for me--I said, "Well, I admit I find them all boring. I do have a copy of 'Feel the Fear But Do It Anyway' which I've never read, but the title works great!"
I don't know a better way to put it than feel the fear but do it anyway. And after a while, you won't feel the fear.
Thankful that I was able to get in to the Dr. this morning. Have been off work since a week ago Wed for my spring vacation. Weekend was splendid but I returned Sunday eve not feeling well. To return to work tonight and just couldn't see that happening but felt guilty to call in after being off a whole week. Dr. says I have good reason to stay home. R lower lobe pneumonia. I had diagnosed it myself but was glad for my sweet Dr.'s 2nd opinion. (wink, wink)
Thankful driving was easy in the city I visited. I seem to do better when no one is with me. Thankful for learning some valuable information r/t gardening and being with like minded friends. Thankful I was able to complete my list of visiting my family members and spending quality time with them. My funnest thing was to pick up bakery items exclusive to the bakery there. They make the most delightful angel food cupcakes with buttercream frosting.
Thankful for the kennel Miss Molly visits when I'm gone. I missed the window of opportunity to pick her up Sunday night after misinforming myself of the pickup hours. (If I looked once, I looked three times!) I drove home in tears because I missed her so much. I am thankful that I found out that the kennel proprietor fixes supper and has her whole family there EVERY Sunday night and that was so good to hear. When I picked up Molly on Monday morning, she was happy to go or stay there! Ornery Pup!
@Chrissy, One time we picked up our boy from a Rover stay while on last fall's Last Hurrah trip. We met in a parking lot for the exchange, since she had an appointment close to the highway we were about to take. After the dog hopped out to greet us, we opened the door to the van. He jumped into her still open car door instead of our vehicle. I understand--she let him swim in their pool!
@Lindsey, TRAITOR
I know people and animals are different, and presumably, you don't have the same needle phobia that I do (I can't imagine why you'd want to be a nurse if you did!), but the first time I had to give our diabetic kitty his insulin injection was definitely the worst time. My husband did it for months before I tried, and I cried the first time I did it. Fortunately, the kitty was fine! It was definitely not anything that I ever enjoyed doing, but I got much better at it, and was able to do it with no tears. If I got there, I am SURE you will be fine with doing more injections. 🙂
What a lovely lamp!
I'm thankful that the big rain we had this week was not accompanied by tornadoes or strong winds, just a good old fashioned thunderstorm, which I enjoy. Plus we collected a lot of rainwater, which I'm also thankful for!
Thankful for a handy husband who's good at fixing things and just doesn't give up until he finds a solution. My computer was acting screwy, thinking I was clicking on random things when I wasn't. First we tried switching the bluetooth port for the wireless mouse, didn't fix it. Tried a wired mouse, that didn't fix it. Finally he remembered my computer is actually a tablet that has a touchscreen, and there's a hairline crack in the monitor so the touchscreen driver thinks somebody's touching the screen all the time. Uninstalled the software for the touchscreen and voila! fixed. Of course I'll have to re-uninstall when there's a stupid update via Windows, but I know how to do that now.
Thankful for God, who helps me get out of a rut and pull myself up when I'm my own worst enemy.
Five thankfuls (and thankful it isn't "Thursday's Thirty Thankfuls")
1. The crew that faithfully and cheerfully works with me on cleaning up at church (the closets! the storage areas! WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE??)
2. RAIN!
3. My sister for taking care of Mom while she is in and out of the hospital and rehab. Mom moved near older sister 2 years ago and I am so very thankful. (And sometimes thankful for the 800 mile distance, which qualifies me for Bad Daughter of the Decade.)
4. Flexibility in my work schedule so that I have the luxury of reading through all the comments and enjoying everyone here.
5. Opportunities to earn extra $ in doing yardening for a friend's vacation rentals when the weather (and the painting) allows.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana,
Welcome to the BDotD Club. 🙂 I rarely admit to anyone (except to the Frugalista Commentariat) how relieved I was when my mom moved from my area (Ohio) to Colorado to live with my oldest sister about 4 years ago. Lots of baggage there that I won't get into here, but grateful that my sister and she get along so well.
Today I am particularly thankful for the good news contained in this article on how we (consumers) are making purchasing decisions that will help bring inflation down closer to the Fed target of 2%. https://apnews.com/article/inflation-consumers-price-gouging-spending-economy-999e81e2f869a0151e2ee6bbb63370af
@MB in MN, Thanks for sharing that article. Maybe we're not as dumb as the food manufacturers are hoping we are!
@MB in MN, great article! I stopped buying a few things that just got too expensive, even at sale prices. I’m looking at you, Tostitos!
I remember my first IM injection, my hands were shaking so much I am surprised I didn't give myself a needle stick. God bless that patient that allowed a young, terrified nursing student to just stab them in the arm. We have been pretty rainy/snowy here as well, which is nice to a point (like guys, it's called the Donner Pass for a reason....do not go there when weather is rolling in). I will be sad for the cozy rainy days to end but I am really, really looking forward to starting my garden soon and my tomato plants need the sunshine.
Oh, I still remember giving my first injection to a real person back in 1976. We used metal tubex syringes back then, and my instructor told me, it’s like throwing a dart, just pick the spot of the injection, and once the needle pierces the skin, the worst is over. After a 42 year career, I wonder how many injections I gave! Glad you got that over with, Kristen, piece of cake now.
My thankfuls:
Thankful that my husband has had the rest of the tumor resection on his back done and that he has a wonderful attitude and “just get it done and move on” approach.
Thankful that our State income tax refund has already appeared in our bank account.
Beyond thankful for a massage therapist who has a holistic approach and really strong hands! I had some serious knots that she magically worked out of me! I really appreciate her.
Thankful that our kids like us enough that we have booked a camp for two weeks in June to spend together. We are lucky to be able to afford it and look forward to June! We will celebrate three birthdays, two wedding anniversaries and Father’s Day in this time!
Thankful to see the snow leaving and spring coming!
Thankful for our upcoming trip to visit our daughter and her family in a couple of weeks and spend Easter with them.
Thankful for you, Kristen, and this thoughtful, caring community that you have built. I’m glad that you are part of the next generation of nurses who will bring wonderful care to your patients.
This week I'm thankful for:
* this frugal community! I'm not typically one to struggle with comparison games on social media, but I saw something a friend posted this week that hit some of my insecurities and made me feel kind of awful. Thankfully, I had just been on Kristen's blog and I was able to remind myself that there are all kinds of people out here who don't think intentional spending is a bad thing. That day I kept reminding myself of y'all and the reasons why I do what I do and it made me feel better.
* that I don't have any sick kids! My daughter's best friend got sick right after they had a 5 hour play rehearsal together, so I fully expected it to take her out a couple of days later. But our house stayed healthy!
* stability.
* that we can afford to buy fruits and veggies for our family.
* that God hears us and sees us.
* for some time with my childhood church family on Saturday. I don't see them often anymore, but they are dear to my heart. I'm so thankful for the role they played in my life and they way they invested their time and love into me as I was growing up.
I lived in Philadelphia for a long time and got a little nostalgic for East Coast/Big City life a while ago and decided to take up the Philadelphia Inquirer’s offer of a 6-month digital subscription for $1. (Newspapers are hurting these days!) And I loved a recent article about a “mini nurse academy” for elementary school students that a school nurse set up as an after-school, one day a week program offering students an introduction to nursing, first aid and health care. The program is hosted by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Area Black Nurse Association to introduce students of color to nursing as a profession. Some of the students have family members dealing with chronic health conditions which is why they are interested in becoming nurses. One of the nursing students from Thomas Jefferson University who works with this school program as part of her clinical rotation said “It’s important for the kids to see someone who looks like them working in nursing.”
@JDinNM, what a great program! Thanks for sharing that.
@JDinNM, What a cool program!
Love the Tiffany lamp, I bought one at an estate sale that the owner had over a pool table. I hung it in my living room, it is beautiful.
Thankful I was able to take a couple days off, my patience at work is running thin.
For a co-worker who expressed the same feelings above so we felt better after a talk.
For the nice weather this week.
For click n pull orders at Sam's Club. So very helpful to me.
That we will be able to visits the grands this weekend. Can't wait!
How exciting, to be giving shots and so on to real people. It must make you feel even closer to being a real nurse.
1. Our two dogs, who make us laugh every single day. Expensive, especially the Dane, but worth every penny.
2. A travelling cat and dog nail trimmer. We just discovered her last week and are in love with her. She is reasonably priced, came to our house, worked efficiently and had no hesitation in working with a dog that probably weighs more than she does.
3. My heart doctor, who spent an hour with me this morning, explaining why he is requesting certain tests. I just love that he works for our locally controlled non-profit hospital, not a private practice, so is not limited or rushed in how much time he spends with people.
4. My mailman, who knocked on our door for a signature and then brought the package into the kitchen because it was quite heavy. He has seen me in my wheelchair and knows I am rickety on my feet.
5. The husband, always the husband.
@Lindsey, we just talked to Mr. Sumo—one more day of picking (tomorr0w) and 2-3 weeks of packing, so the sumos will continue for a little while longer.
Giving your first injection reminded of how dad would flirt with my stepmother before they started dating. She had started at the hospital he worked at as an ER nurse but felt she needed more practice drawing blood. Dad has good veins and would offer to let her do a few practice pokes every time they're shifts over lapped and they each had a few extra minutes. My grandmother would tease him about it every time he cam home from his overnight shift with bandaids on both arms.
@Brittany, I love this.
-Good food
-Kind, caring people
- friends
- coffee
Oh, Kristen, the injection story reminded me of when I studied nursing and had to give my first injection... to my kindergarten teacher in the hospital for a surgery! She was so kind about it, told me it hadn't hurt a bit, etc. But I will never forget the moment!
Ohhh man! At least mine was on a perfect stranger.
Oh, I wished I lived closer to you. I'd let you practice injections on me twice a week. I hate giving them to myself.
If you were training to be a phlebotomist, I'd send one of my family members out there. A tough cookie from whom to draw blood - and the relative speaks up to ensure he doesn't have to endure multiple sticks before phlebotomist #1 calls for help. I am on the opposite end of the scale. Easy to find but please, PLEASE, use the smallest needle you have. I'm done with bruising and will write a tactful letter IF it happens.
Congratulations on the first injection! I’ve been an RN for 25 years this Spring and I can still remember that first time! It gets easier and easier for sure. I’m enjoying reliving some of the school memories with you and rooting you on virtually!!
When I was in Medical Assisting school, I found giving injections to be a walk in the park compared to catching a vein to draw blood. I have been out of the business for twenty years but I could still give injections.
But, I couldn't find a vein to draw from if I had a road map and a set of arrows.
- time off from work/ school with my husband and kids
- excellent weather and travel luck for our time together
- teens who enjoy spending time with us
- national parks
- Libby library app
That lamp is cuuuutteeee!
We’ve been fighting through the sicks here still so I’ll just stick with all the popping up spring flowers as my gratitude. It just is such a burst of happiness seeing them shoot up every March.
Thankful for ...
1. For a wonderful husband who went grocery shopping, cooked dinner, and helps me out with the kids when I'm sick.
2. The bodies that God has blessed us that can heal itself from the cold/ flu.
3. Warm snuggly blankets.
4. Quiet & relaxing weekend to recover.
5. Warmer and promising weather to melt all the snow away.
thank you for mentioning something and then making explanations re how when and where and even supply a link. THANK YOU
Congratulations on your first injection
Big hurdle
I still remember my first one and it was almost 60 years ago
The lamp is so cute! What a great find!
I’m thankful for an upcoming Saturday with nothing scheduled. That means my husband and I can get a good day of Spring cleaning indoors and yard work outdoors ( obviously) accomplished.
Even though we saw snow flurries on Sunday afternoon, I’m pretty sure Spring is settling in and I’m thankful for more daylight and budding trees.
I’m thankful for pears. I love to eat them and love to paint them ( esp the green ones). I also have a few large fake ones that I move around for decoration in our home. That little pop of green brings a bright spot of color to any area.
I love my houseplants. They’re thriving in spite of my lack of skill in keeping plants alive.