Let's be honest...being single is great, but there are moments that I miss living life with people. Perhaps that is one of the reasons I miss college so much. I was constantly surrounded by people who I was able to go on grand adventures with or do even the most mundane tasks with. Yes, I've made friends since I moved to the cities, but having coffee once every couple weeks is not quite the same as being with them every spare moment of your day. And as I think about sending out a Christmas card with a picture of just me and trying to make big life decisions like buying a car with no one to confer and talk it through with, life seems a little bit lonely.
The good news is that I know this time will past. So here's to embracing singleness and independence and doing what I want ;)
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Thursday, November 24, 2011
a time to be thankful
I believe that an attitude of thankfulness should not be limited to one day a year, but in the same breath, I am glad that there is a day set aside for us to take the time to reflect on the past year and be overcome with all there is to be thankful for.
I have so much to be thankful for, but this year, the top of the list is health. Praise God for his miraculous hand of protection over me during the 2 month journey of my apendix rupturing and the recovery that followed. I was brought to tears today thinking about the fact that so many things could have gone wrong and the turn out could have been very different, but I am as good as new minus one organ and a healed scar as a reminder of his protection and purpose that he has for me yet to come.
The thankfulness does not stop there. My family is amazing and always there for me, even though I am definitely a hand full!
I hope you all enjoyed a grand Thanksgiving feast today! I feel as though I ate about half of the 22 pound turkey my grandma made. Along with lots of mashed potatoes, cookie salad, stuffing, cranberries, rolls and green bean salad...and pie. It's not often that I eat like this when I cook for myself-gotta love family get togethers :)
I have so much to be thankful for, but this year, the top of the list is health. Praise God for his miraculous hand of protection over me during the 2 month journey of my apendix rupturing and the recovery that followed. I was brought to tears today thinking about the fact that so many things could have gone wrong and the turn out could have been very different, but I am as good as new minus one organ and a healed scar as a reminder of his protection and purpose that he has for me yet to come.
The thankfulness does not stop there. My family is amazing and always there for me, even though I am definitely a hand full!
I hope you all enjoyed a grand Thanksgiving feast today! I feel as though I ate about half of the 22 pound turkey my grandma made. Along with lots of mashed potatoes, cookie salad, stuffing, cranberries, rolls and green bean salad...and pie. It's not often that I eat like this when I cook for myself-gotta love family get togethers :)
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Honey Pumpkin Pie
I've always wanted to make a REAL pumpkin pie. Not with the pumpkin that comes in a can, but from an actual round pumpkin that is freshly picked from the vine. Well, a few weeks ago I was able to check that off my list of things to do before I die. I went to a pumpkin patch with some friends and saw the baking pumpkins and knew I had to do it. Here's the recipe I used as well as some pictures of the process...ENJOY!!
Honey Pumpkin Pie
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 2 eggs, slightly beaten
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 unbaked pie shell
Combine pumpkin, honey, cinnamon, vanilla and salt. Add eggs and milk. Pour into pie shell and bake at 425ยบ for 40 to 45 minutes. Makes 6-8 servings.
(a little warning, I haven't edited the pictures yet, so don't judge)
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| The pumpkin used to make the delicious pie. |
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| All cleaned and ready for the grand transformation. |
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| Cut the pumpkin into 1-2 inch cubes. |
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| Put in a large pot with an inch of water. Boil and then cover and steam. |
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| Drain. |
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| Remove the skin... |
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| MUSH!! |
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| Then to make the pie :) |
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| Ready to be cooked. (ps the batter is delicious!) |
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| Pre-oven.... |
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| perfect! |
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| Ready to eat :) |
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
adjusting
Well friends, this whole having a big girl job is a big adjustment. Working 40 some hours a week plus commuting is a very different change of pace from what I was used to. So be patient with me. I'm learning how to manage my time and am also wondering how people do this! Hopefully I'll post more soon and fill you in on what's new in my life. But now I must go to sleep. Goodnight :)
Sunday, October 16, 2011
new favorite
Someone shared this song with me today, and I can't help but play it on repeat. Check it out!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
big kid.
Today I started my new job as a Student Records Coordinator at Rasmussen College. It's been quite the journey getting here and is just the beginning of what I'm sure will be an overwhelming next few weeks. I was given a warm welcome by the few that I interacted with today and then will be introduced at our all-staff meeting on Friday. I've been told I'll have to stand in front of the room and answer any questions people have for me as well as tell them 3 interesting facts about myself-oh joy. (If you can think of anything interesting about me, please let me know! It always seems as though when you force yourself to think about your quirks you can't seem to pinpoint them)
I'm really looking forward to being a part of this team and learning all that my job entails. One of the most exciting things is that I have an office with a name placard with my name on it, outside of my door already. As I was ironing my pants last night, preparing for actually wearing dress clothes to work, I thought to myself, "tomorrow I'm going to put on my big girl pants."
There are a few reasons this stuck out to me.
1. If you know me well enough, you'll know that one of my favorite sayings (credit given to my mother) is "put on your big girl panties and deal with it". This isn't a situation that I need to "buck up" in order to deal with, but rather than putting on my big girl panties, I put on my big girl pants.
2. These are not my grown up pants. Just my big girl pants. One step at a time, ya know? I still don't think of myself as an adult and prefer to gradually take on that title, so for now I'll stick to being a big kid.
3. The fact that I was ironing my pants is crazy to me. No longer can I wear jeans or a skirt and leggings to work, but I have to be a presentable and professional person in the business world. Still waiting for that to sink in.
Well, those are just a few of my ramblings. I survived my first day and plan to go back tomorrow. I'm exhausted after one full day, but here's to many more :)
I'm really looking forward to being a part of this team and learning all that my job entails. One of the most exciting things is that I have an office with a name placard with my name on it, outside of my door already. As I was ironing my pants last night, preparing for actually wearing dress clothes to work, I thought to myself, "tomorrow I'm going to put on my big girl pants."
There are a few reasons this stuck out to me.
1. If you know me well enough, you'll know that one of my favorite sayings (credit given to my mother) is "put on your big girl panties and deal with it". This isn't a situation that I need to "buck up" in order to deal with, but rather than putting on my big girl panties, I put on my big girl pants.
2. These are not my grown up pants. Just my big girl pants. One step at a time, ya know? I still don't think of myself as an adult and prefer to gradually take on that title, so for now I'll stick to being a big kid.
3. The fact that I was ironing my pants is crazy to me. No longer can I wear jeans or a skirt and leggings to work, but I have to be a presentable and professional person in the business world. Still waiting for that to sink in.
Well, those are just a few of my ramblings. I survived my first day and plan to go back tomorrow. I'm exhausted after one full day, but here's to many more :)
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
on faithfulness...
As many of you probably know, the last few weeks have emotional and overwhelming as I've been going through the interview process with Rasmussen College and making some big life decisions that were/are a bit risky.
I started the interview process about a month ago now. Trying not to get my hopes up after each interview was hard, because after each one I kept feeling more and more attached and excited about the opportunity. 5 interviews later I was told they would get back to me by the end of the week. I was on vacation in D.C. at the time, which was a good distraction. While there, my current boss texted me to offer me a full-time position with benefits. Talk about a curve ball. That made the potential decision of what to choose if offered the position with Rasmussen even harder.
I had to tell Here's Life by Friday at 5 PM if I would be accepting the position and staying with them...unfortunately I had not heard back from Rasmussen yet. I knew they were running a background check, but that is no conclusive information in order to make a wise decision on what your future will look like. After checking in with Rasmussen on the status and time frame of things, I was told I was one of their top candidates but they were finishing up the interview process with another potential candidate and would be in touch in a week or so. Talk about feeling your stomach drop.
I was so torn at this point. I love Here's Life Inner City and the people I work with, but can honestly say that I don't see myself there long term. So after much prayer and many tears, I took a huge step of faith and told Here's Life thanks for the gracious offer but that I couldn't accept it.
And then I waited. Trusting that God had a plan. Whatever it was going to be, I knew He was in control. Even though I had such a sense of peace about my decision, the unknowns were definitely looming in the back of my mind. If I did get the Rasmussen job, would I like it? And the bigger question. If I didn't get the position at Rasmussen, then what? Work part-time and continue to look for a job? Move home and work part-time and look for a job? I went home this past weekend and it was the longest 4 hour drive ever. Just me and myself thinking about what was to be. Even though I had an amazing sense of peace, the unknowns continued to seep into my thoughts.
God is SO good though. Yesterday at 4:45 PM, I received a phone call from Rasmussen offering me the position. I didn't even hesitate saying "I accept". Desperate? Maybe. Excited? Beyond belief! I got off the phone and screamed like a little school girl! Who am I to doubt God's plan for me. And he is so faithful and has proven it over and over to me. Throughout my life and this past year especially, I should know that God knows what he's doing.
I'm a little scared about starting a new job and meeting new people and a little sad about leaving my current co-workers, but this is just another step in my journey and and all I can help but do is smile :) So on October 11th at 9:30 AM, I will walk into my new job and sign some official papers that will make me Rasmussen College's newest Student Records Coordinator. Thank you Jesus, and thank you to everyone who has listened to me and supported me through this process!
I started the interview process about a month ago now. Trying not to get my hopes up after each interview was hard, because after each one I kept feeling more and more attached and excited about the opportunity. 5 interviews later I was told they would get back to me by the end of the week. I was on vacation in D.C. at the time, which was a good distraction. While there, my current boss texted me to offer me a full-time position with benefits. Talk about a curve ball. That made the potential decision of what to choose if offered the position with Rasmussen even harder.
I had to tell Here's Life by Friday at 5 PM if I would be accepting the position and staying with them...unfortunately I had not heard back from Rasmussen yet. I knew they were running a background check, but that is no conclusive information in order to make a wise decision on what your future will look like. After checking in with Rasmussen on the status and time frame of things, I was told I was one of their top candidates but they were finishing up the interview process with another potential candidate and would be in touch in a week or so. Talk about feeling your stomach drop.
I was so torn at this point. I love Here's Life Inner City and the people I work with, but can honestly say that I don't see myself there long term. So after much prayer and many tears, I took a huge step of faith and told Here's Life thanks for the gracious offer but that I couldn't accept it.
And then I waited. Trusting that God had a plan. Whatever it was going to be, I knew He was in control. Even though I had such a sense of peace about my decision, the unknowns were definitely looming in the back of my mind. If I did get the Rasmussen job, would I like it? And the bigger question. If I didn't get the position at Rasmussen, then what? Work part-time and continue to look for a job? Move home and work part-time and look for a job? I went home this past weekend and it was the longest 4 hour drive ever. Just me and myself thinking about what was to be. Even though I had an amazing sense of peace, the unknowns continued to seep into my thoughts.
God is SO good though. Yesterday at 4:45 PM, I received a phone call from Rasmussen offering me the position. I didn't even hesitate saying "I accept". Desperate? Maybe. Excited? Beyond belief! I got off the phone and screamed like a little school girl! Who am I to doubt God's plan for me. And he is so faithful and has proven it over and over to me. Throughout my life and this past year especially, I should know that God knows what he's doing.
I'm a little scared about starting a new job and meeting new people and a little sad about leaving my current co-workers, but this is just another step in my journey and and all I can help but do is smile :) So on October 11th at 9:30 AM, I will walk into my new job and sign some official papers that will make me Rasmussen College's newest Student Records Coordinator. Thank you Jesus, and thank you to everyone who has listened to me and supported me through this process!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
trying to be patient...
Why is being patient so hard sometimes?? For those of you who may not know, I've been going through the interview process for the last couple weeks...yes weeks. I've technically had 5 interviews total so far, whether they were over the phone or face-to-face. And now, I must wait. I'm supposed to hear by the end of the week, so really not that long of a wait, but after all of this time and energy I've invested, I'm just ready to know if they want me or not!
Well I'll let you all know whether I get the job or not, but until then-pray for me!
Well I'll let you all know whether I get the job or not, but until then-pray for me!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
memories!
It's been about 6 months since I had my emergency appendectomy/emergency surgery, so thought it would be fun to share some photo's that will now be published for the first time! Praise God for his protection and healing and for where He's brought me since then-I am truly blessed :)
I don't have a current picture of the scar, but you can trust me that it's looking much better! It's still hard to believe that all actually happened, but what an adventure!
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| The day before I went in to the hospital. My dad taught me how to saw properly as poison was spewing through my abdomen. |
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| I was a sad sight... |
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| Post-tube removal-nice! |
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| The incision with the staples holding me together... |
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| ...and after the staples were removed. |
My grand re-entrance to the world-wide-web...
...or the blogging world at least. The lackadaisical days of summer seem to have sucked me in. So who really knows if anyone actually follows me on here anymore, but if you do-great! Summer always seems to slip through your fingers and you wonder where the time has gone. It's a fun time of the year because bed-times get pushed back and there's a careless sense of time and no real schedule to anything. With that though, time seems to fill up rather quickly or completely escape you (well, me at least). The past few months have been filled with camping, weddings, Twins games, sitting by the pool, road trips and many other grand activities that make summer wonderful.
But here I am, looking forward to fall! The air was fresh and crisp today, and made me ready for pumpkin lattes :) (anything made with pumpkin actually) Fall is my favorite. The crisp leaves, the change of pace, the change of wardrobe, and the list could go on.
That's all for now...just wanted to say hello again and that you will (hopefully) be hearing from me soon!
But here I am, looking forward to fall! The air was fresh and crisp today, and made me ready for pumpkin lattes :) (anything made with pumpkin actually) Fall is my favorite. The crisp leaves, the change of pace, the change of wardrobe, and the list could go on.
That's all for now...just wanted to say hello again and that you will (hopefully) be hearing from me soon!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Peanut Butter Cookies
The other night I had the urge to bake even though it was unbelievably hot outside. So I cranked on the A.C. and began perusing recipes...since my motivation was somewhat low I went for what looked like the easiest recipe and then turned out to be some of the best peanut butter cookies I've ever made. I thought they seemed a bit dry when I first tried one, but at work the next day they got raving reviews..."Just like my grandma's" is what one guy said! So here's the recipe:
Easy Peanut Butter Cookies:
Easy Peanut Butter Cookies:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp. vanilla
Sunday, July 10, 2011
thunderstorms
I LOVE thunderstorms, and there is an epic one currently taking place.
I used to be scared of them, so why do I love thunderstorms so much? Because now I see them as one of THE most epic ways we can see God's power and creativity. SO awesome.
And now I am turning off all of the lights in my apartment and sitting by my window so I can thoroughly enjoy the beauty of it all :)
I used to be scared of them, so why do I love thunderstorms so much? Because now I see them as one of THE most epic ways we can see God's power and creativity. SO awesome.
And now I am turning off all of the lights in my apartment and sitting by my window so I can thoroughly enjoy the beauty of it all :)
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Happy
Well friends-summer has overtaken my blogging but I thought tonight I'd share a little post (if anyone still reads this that is).
I'm loving life and feeling great! And for most of you, you know that these are not words that have come out of my mouth for about...a year. There's so much I could blubber on about all of that, but for now I just want to say thanks to everyone who's been there for me this year-Lord knows I haven't been the most pleasant at times.
I'm also preparing myself to bird-sit and house-sit for 3 weeks in July...should be an adventure!! That's all for now :)
I'm loving life and feeling great! And for most of you, you know that these are not words that have come out of my mouth for about...a year. There's so much I could blubber on about all of that, but for now I just want to say thanks to everyone who's been there for me this year-Lord knows I haven't been the most pleasant at times.
I'm also preparing myself to bird-sit and house-sit for 3 weeks in July...should be an adventure!! That's all for now :)
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
grateful
Today I'm grateful for friends who ask questions and truly care about what's going on in your life. I'm grateful for chair races through the warehouse when people are antsy at work. I'm grateful for new friend requests on facebook. I'm grateful for messages from people letting me know they're thinking of me. I'm grateful to be a child of my Heavenly Father. What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Who would've thought...
I never thought I would ever say this, but sometimes I wish I lived closer to my family. I love them dearly, but I always wanted to go somewhere far away. Now that I live only 4 hours away, I find myself being homesick and wanting to go back as much as possible. Only 2 more days...
Friday, June 10, 2011
I'll never give up.
Though it seems like I am a failed blogger, I will keep on trying to update you all on my life via blog...later. Hope you're enjoying summer :)
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
the lady's a genius!
Well folks, she did it! I couldn't be more proud of my mother. After years of time and energy, my mom is now a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Congratulations Mom!!!
Monday, May 23, 2011
fighting for hope
I just listened to a great sermon on Psalm 42 that I would encourage you to take the time to listen to it. Check it out...
Spiritual Depression in the Psalms
Spiritual Depression in the Psalms
Sunday, May 22, 2011
new projects
Here are a few of my latest sewing projects...
The pictures are all I have energy to post this evening, so until next time dear friends. Hope you had a wonderful weekend :)
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| Huzzah banner for my mothers graduation |
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| Apple tote bag |
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Words of Wisdom
B.
This position is not open but I thought after looking at the job description it might give you ideas about what you might like to "do with your life". Maybe your life isn't about doing but living?
love you
MOM
This position is not open but I thought after looking at the job description it might give you ideas about what you might like to "do with your life". Maybe your life isn't about doing but living?
love you
MOM
Friday, May 13, 2011
...
I know that I have not been a faithful blogger, but sometimes I just do not know how to express myself. Or possibly it could be the fact that I'm afraid to express myself. I do not have a way with words, and what I try to say usually comes out wrong or is misinterpreted. That's why I'm a contemplative observer. I'm not good at verbalizing, which leads to my nature of internalizing.
I know that many of my thoughts this year have been about change and hardship, and maybe some are sick of hearing about it but this is the season I am in. For the moment. This is a time of refinement. The purpose of which I am not sure, and where I will go from here only God knows. Praise the Lord for that. While I continue on this journey, I rest in the comfort and peace of the most Holy One.
I know that many of my thoughts this year have been about change and hardship, and maybe some are sick of hearing about it but this is the season I am in. For the moment. This is a time of refinement. The purpose of which I am not sure, and where I will go from here only God knows. Praise the Lord for that. While I continue on this journey, I rest in the comfort and peace of the most Holy One.
"See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. For my own sake, for my own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield my glory to another."
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
hmmm...
I'm perplexed by what to write today, but I know it's been a while so I feel as though I should put something up...
I have a co-worker that will sometimes share the word of the day with us at lunch. Do you know what todays was? Akimbo. Do you know what that means? We always take turns trying to guess (some people come up with pretty ridiculous definitions) Anywho....akimbo.
Akimbo <is a human body position in which the hands are on the hips and the elbows are bowed outward, or bent/bowed in a more general sense> such as...
I have a co-worker that will sometimes share the word of the day with us at lunch. Do you know what todays was? Akimbo. Do you know what that means? We always take turns trying to guess (some people come up with pretty ridiculous definitions) Anywho....akimbo.
Akimbo <is a human body position in which the hands are on the hips and the elbows are bowed outward, or bent/bowed in a more general sense> such as...
Sunday, April 10, 2011
23
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
I still cry.
Today I took a different way home from work than I usually do. This new way ended up bringing me past the radiology clinic where I had my first CT scan telling the doctors there was something seriously wrong with me. As I drove past, tears came to my eyes as I thought back on the entire experience of my appendix rupturing. The time leading up to and following my surgery are still a blur and I continue to realize how much of a toll it all took on me; not only physically but emotionally.
Yes, I'm still tired and the scar where the incision was made is still sensitive but I'm healing and making great progress. So, I suppose that I am healing emotionally as well. Yes, I cried multiple times in the hospital but that can be expected. Since being hospitalized, there are times that just thinking about everything that took place makes me cry. I think I cried myself to sleep almost every night for about the first week after being discharged. I don't really know why...maybe it was thinking about the total invasion of any personal bubble I once had, or the fact that things could have been much more serious than they ended up being, or my perspective on life being completely changed.
The tears become more spread apart as time goes on, and I become less of an emotional basket-case. But just as the physical aspect of healing will take time, so will the emotional side of things.
Yes, I'm still tired and the scar where the incision was made is still sensitive but I'm healing and making great progress. So, I suppose that I am healing emotionally as well. Yes, I cried multiple times in the hospital but that can be expected. Since being hospitalized, there are times that just thinking about everything that took place makes me cry. I think I cried myself to sleep almost every night for about the first week after being discharged. I don't really know why...maybe it was thinking about the total invasion of any personal bubble I once had, or the fact that things could have been much more serious than they ended up being, or my perspective on life being completely changed.
The tears become more spread apart as time goes on, and I become less of an emotional basket-case. But just as the physical aspect of healing will take time, so will the emotional side of things.
Monday, April 4, 2011
one week completed!
I survived my first whole week back in the real world. Though it was exhausting, it's been good getting back into a routine and keeping busy (after being MIA for 3 weeks, there's a lot to catch up on). Part of my time was spent organizing my room and hanging up a few things, including the curtains I made. That's right I made curtains. I feel like it was quite an accomplishment, but to be completely honest-if I ever want curtains again...I think I might just buy them. Anywho...things are coming together and life is starting to feel somewhat normal again. Still looking forward to the day I can wear jeans though :)
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| The final product! |
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| I decided to combine the fabrics I liked... |
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| The wavy mirror I had above my dresser fell and broke while I was gone, so I made some changes. |
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| The blue fuzzy blanket still sheds... |
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| It's all coming together! |
Friday, March 25, 2011
on stoicism.
Many people are in the hospital for weeks if their apendix is burst for 2-3 days. Mine had been ruptured for 3 weeks and I was only in the hospital for 6 days. It still boggles my mind that their was not more damage done to my body considering the fact that their was poison spewing into my abdomen for that long. The only reason for this is the grace of God and his hand of protection over me. One fact I try not to think about is that I could have died, but I down-play everything so I try not to make a big deal out of it (unless I'm trying to get someone to go to the Beiber movie with me-which still hasn't worked).
As I'm continuing to process this whole chain of events there are a few things that stuck out to me...
First, I noticed the words that were used to describe me. Mild-mannered. Stoic. Trooper. Tough. Unbelievably high pain tolerance. Wow. (speechless). None of the doctors or nurses could believe that I had been so sick for so long without having gone to a doctor.
From all this, I realized how prideful I am and how little I am willing to ask for help. I always think, "It's not that bad" or "I can take care of it on my own". Well, guess what. Sometimes you have to get over yourself and admit you're in pain, or admit you need help. This entire experience from beginning to whenever I'm fully recovered is teaching me extreme humility. Do you know what it's like to not be able to shower yourself? Or brush your hair? Or lean over to pick something up? This list could go on, but really what I'm getting at is that I had to forget my "I can do everything" attitude and ask for help. I think this is a very valid application to everyday life.
As I'm continuing to process this whole chain of events there are a few things that stuck out to me...
First, I noticed the words that were used to describe me. Mild-mannered. Stoic. Trooper. Tough. Unbelievably high pain tolerance. Wow. (speechless). None of the doctors or nurses could believe that I had been so sick for so long without having gone to a doctor.
From all this, I realized how prideful I am and how little I am willing to ask for help. I always think, "It's not that bad" or "I can take care of it on my own". Well, guess what. Sometimes you have to get over yourself and admit you're in pain, or admit you need help. This entire experience from beginning to whenever I'm fully recovered is teaching me extreme humility. Do you know what it's like to not be able to shower yourself? Or brush your hair? Or lean over to pick something up? This list could go on, but really what I'm getting at is that I had to forget my "I can do everything" attitude and ask for help. I think this is a very valid application to everyday life.
Monday, March 14, 2011
EXPLOSION.
Well folks, it turns out I never had the stomach flu. Apparently my appendix ruptured around February 16th...so, a long time ago. I've told and re-told the story many times but for anyone who doesn't know and is interested, here is what I've experienced for the last four weeks... (*just a warning this is a little lengthy)
February 16th: I woke up not feeling very well (I figured it was from the chili cheese dog that I had the night before). But by mid-morning at work, I knew that I was not ok. I left work early, which was a good thing because I got home and proceeded to spend some time on the bathroom floor because I was in so much discomfort. At this point I figured I had some 24 hour bug and that I'd be good to go by Friday. I was wrong. The next six days were a blur of time on the couch, in the bathroom, in bed with intense stomach cramping, diarrhea, vomiting and fever. It was the worst thing I've ever experienced (rightly so, knowing now that this is when they think my appendix burst). In the midst of those 6 days, I went into a walk-in clinic that told me "It's just a bad bug that you're going to have to wait out." So I did.
The next two and a half weeks, I began to feel a little bit better but I knew I was not back to 100%. I still had discomfort in my abdomen but had no fever, and could eat food again (even though I never knew how it was going to settle).
Weekend of March 4th: My family came to visit this weekend and we had a blast hanging out and celebrating my mom's birthday. Saturday we went to the King Tut exhibit, walked around Ikea and went out to celebrate at Joe's Crab Shack. Sunday before they left I knew I was not feeling well. After saying goodbye, I laid on the couch and didn't change out of my pajamas all day.
This is where the fun begins! I woke up the next morning (Monday, March 7th) feeling terrible again. After talking to my mom, she said I should go to the clinic. I called the clinic that morning and made an appointment for 12:30. I told my doctor I hadn't been feeling well for 3 weeks and told her everything I'd experienced for the last 3 weeks. They then ran a bunch of lab work and I had a fever again and after feeling my stomach she told me she was worried about the sensitivity that I still had in my stomach and wanted me to go in for a CT scan. I also had a white blood count of 29. A normal white blood count is supposed to be between 4 and 11, so my body was clearly trying to fight some kind of wicked infection.
I went straight from the clinic to the radiology clinic where I had to drink some nasty paste-like concoction before going in to get scanned. After being scanned, I headed back to my clinic to bring in some more of my bodily fluids to get tested and on my way I received a call. It was my clinic saying that my CT scan came back abnormal and that I needed to go to the closest ER as soon as possible because there was severe inflammation and they thought my appendix burst. I immediately called my mom (crying of course) and told her what they told me. She told me she would get in the car as soon as possible and be on her way-what a blessing knowing you're family is there for you no matter what.
I arrived at the ER around 4 PM where I was immediately greeted by a nurse that was waiting for me. I spent the next 3ish hours in the ER having more tests run, another CT scan and having to tell more people all of my symptoms.
A few hours later around 7:15, I was admitted to the hospital. I had just gotten into my room and my aunt and uncle had just gotten there when the doctor came in. He went on to introduce himself and began to tell me that he believed my appendix ruptured probably three weeks ago when I began feeling sick and that there was now a large abscess causing infection and inflammation in my abdomen that needed to get out. I was then told I needed to go in for emergency surgery in 15 minutes and that the operating room was already being prepped. He went on to explain that this would not be a routine appendectomy, instead an exploratory surgery to take out the appendix, abscess and make sure nothing else was damaged. I was also told that there was a slight chance part of my bowel may be infected and may need to be taken out. Yikes-what a load of information!
So after signing some forms, they wheeled me away. As I was in the prep room, I met a whole bunch of other doctors who continued to talk to me about everything that was going to happen. It was all so overwhelming. I am so happy my mom made it just in time to kiss me before going into surgery :)
I don't remember anything after surgery, but I do remember a lot of people in and out that first night after surgery. Taking vitals, drawing blood, pumping meds into me. Looking back it is all so surreal.
The next day I woke up to find all kinds of tubes and contraptions attached to me. There was a lot of crazy stuff that was done to me in that hospital but I will spare you the details.
I could've never imagined that this is what would come from me going to the doctor to hope to get some antibiotics to kick what I thought was a stomach bug. The 6 days I spent in the hospital have changed my perspective on many things though and I know that I have much to be grateful for because I know that I am extremely blessed that there was not more damage done. All in all this has been a crazy journey that I've been on for 4 weeks. I'm still processing everything that has happened to me, but am so, SO thankful that everything is ok and that I am on my way to recovery.
Well dear friends, there is the short version and with all that said, I don't think I will ever hesitate to go to the doctor ever again. My doctors and nurses took such great care of me and do such wonderful things. (At one point I even thought "this is such a great thing they do...maybe I'll be a nurse so I can help people." That changed after some poking, prodding and emptying of bags.) The body is an amazing thing though and we are most certainly "fearfully and wonderfully made"!
Thanks for reading and thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers!! I cannot express how much I appreciate it. Much love to you all :)
February 16th: I woke up not feeling very well (I figured it was from the chili cheese dog that I had the night before). But by mid-morning at work, I knew that I was not ok. I left work early, which was a good thing because I got home and proceeded to spend some time on the bathroom floor because I was in so much discomfort. At this point I figured I had some 24 hour bug and that I'd be good to go by Friday. I was wrong. The next six days were a blur of time on the couch, in the bathroom, in bed with intense stomach cramping, diarrhea, vomiting and fever. It was the worst thing I've ever experienced (rightly so, knowing now that this is when they think my appendix burst). In the midst of those 6 days, I went into a walk-in clinic that told me "It's just a bad bug that you're going to have to wait out." So I did.
The next two and a half weeks, I began to feel a little bit better but I knew I was not back to 100%. I still had discomfort in my abdomen but had no fever, and could eat food again (even though I never knew how it was going to settle).
Weekend of March 4th: My family came to visit this weekend and we had a blast hanging out and celebrating my mom's birthday. Saturday we went to the King Tut exhibit, walked around Ikea and went out to celebrate at Joe's Crab Shack. Sunday before they left I knew I was not feeling well. After saying goodbye, I laid on the couch and didn't change out of my pajamas all day.
This is where the fun begins! I woke up the next morning (Monday, March 7th) feeling terrible again. After talking to my mom, she said I should go to the clinic. I called the clinic that morning and made an appointment for 12:30. I told my doctor I hadn't been feeling well for 3 weeks and told her everything I'd experienced for the last 3 weeks. They then ran a bunch of lab work and I had a fever again and after feeling my stomach she told me she was worried about the sensitivity that I still had in my stomach and wanted me to go in for a CT scan. I also had a white blood count of 29. A normal white blood count is supposed to be between 4 and 11, so my body was clearly trying to fight some kind of wicked infection.
I went straight from the clinic to the radiology clinic where I had to drink some nasty paste-like concoction before going in to get scanned. After being scanned, I headed back to my clinic to bring in some more of my bodily fluids to get tested and on my way I received a call. It was my clinic saying that my CT scan came back abnormal and that I needed to go to the closest ER as soon as possible because there was severe inflammation and they thought my appendix burst. I immediately called my mom (crying of course) and told her what they told me. She told me she would get in the car as soon as possible and be on her way-what a blessing knowing you're family is there for you no matter what.
I arrived at the ER around 4 PM where I was immediately greeted by a nurse that was waiting for me. I spent the next 3ish hours in the ER having more tests run, another CT scan and having to tell more people all of my symptoms.
A few hours later around 7:15, I was admitted to the hospital. I had just gotten into my room and my aunt and uncle had just gotten there when the doctor came in. He went on to introduce himself and began to tell me that he believed my appendix ruptured probably three weeks ago when I began feeling sick and that there was now a large abscess causing infection and inflammation in my abdomen that needed to get out. I was then told I needed to go in for emergency surgery in 15 minutes and that the operating room was already being prepped. He went on to explain that this would not be a routine appendectomy, instead an exploratory surgery to take out the appendix, abscess and make sure nothing else was damaged. I was also told that there was a slight chance part of my bowel may be infected and may need to be taken out. Yikes-what a load of information!
So after signing some forms, they wheeled me away. As I was in the prep room, I met a whole bunch of other doctors who continued to talk to me about everything that was going to happen. It was all so overwhelming. I am so happy my mom made it just in time to kiss me before going into surgery :)
I don't remember anything after surgery, but I do remember a lot of people in and out that first night after surgery. Taking vitals, drawing blood, pumping meds into me. Looking back it is all so surreal.
The next day I woke up to find all kinds of tubes and contraptions attached to me. There was a lot of crazy stuff that was done to me in that hospital but I will spare you the details.
I could've never imagined that this is what would come from me going to the doctor to hope to get some antibiotics to kick what I thought was a stomach bug. The 6 days I spent in the hospital have changed my perspective on many things though and I know that I have much to be grateful for because I know that I am extremely blessed that there was not more damage done. All in all this has been a crazy journey that I've been on for 4 weeks. I'm still processing everything that has happened to me, but am so, SO thankful that everything is ok and that I am on my way to recovery.
Well dear friends, there is the short version and with all that said, I don't think I will ever hesitate to go to the doctor ever again. My doctors and nurses took such great care of me and do such wonderful things. (At one point I even thought "this is such a great thing they do...maybe I'll be a nurse so I can help people." That changed after some poking, prodding and emptying of bags.) The body is an amazing thing though and we are most certainly "fearfully and wonderfully made"!
Thanks for reading and thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers!! I cannot express how much I appreciate it. Much love to you all :)
Sunday, March 6, 2011
back to real life
I realize it's been awhile-I actually almost forgot I had a blog. February got away from me! With moving, bird-sitting and having the indescribable sickness (that I am STILL trying to recuperate from), I am now trying to get my feet back on the ground. It'll happen...eventually.
This weekend, I did have the joy of my family coming to visit. It was fun having them see where I live and work and it was just wonderful spending time with them. It was my mom's birthday this weekend too, so we had a fabulous time celebrating the big 5-5.
That's all for now...a quick update and I promise there will be more to come soon :)
This weekend, I did have the joy of my family coming to visit. It was fun having them see where I live and work and it was just wonderful spending time with them. It was my mom's birthday this weekend too, so we had a fabulous time celebrating the big 5-5.
That's all for now...a quick update and I promise there will be more to come soon :)
Monday, February 21, 2011
like nothing i've ever experienced.
The stomach flu is a terrible, terrible thing. When I left work early on Wednesday, I could never have imagined what was about to happen...6 days-and counting-of torture. The past 6 days have included fever, a lot of time in the bathroom, vomiting, and stomach cramping. All together making for a pretty miserable experience. At times I wished I would just be put out of my misery and at one point I actually asked my mother if she would attend my funeral. maybe a little overdramatic I do think I am making progress though, so hopefully I'll be back to good health very soon. With all that said, I would never wish this upon anyone. But a BIG THANKS to all the wonderful people who were there for me :) You are so, so appreciated!
Monday, February 14, 2011
a few things...
First:
Happy Valentines' Day! A day of love...today I made peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, bought myself some wine and a bouquet of flowers-it's going to be a great night!
Second:
I made cloth napkins (inspired by Britta) for a friends birthday this evening and I think they turned out quite nicely if I do say so myself :)
Third:
Here are a few pictures of my new home...there are still a few things that need to be hung up and put away, but it is coming together! Check it out-
So there it is folks. peace.
Happy Valentines' Day! A day of love...today I made peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, bought myself some wine and a bouquet of flowers-it's going to be a great night!
Second:
I made cloth napkins (inspired by Britta) for a friends birthday this evening and I think they turned out quite nicely if I do say so myself :)
Third:
Here are a few pictures of my new home...there are still a few things that need to be hung up and put away, but it is coming together! Check it out-
the kitchen
another perspective...
the family room (with Ashley and Bob the bird that we've been bird-sitting)...
my room...
the dining room...
a few more views of my messy room...
Friday, February 11, 2011
M.I.A.
It's been awhile since my last post, but I have good reason for my absence. I've been in the process of moving. I knew this before, but moving is the worst. Having the help of wonderful friends makes it better though :) Along with the craziness of moving and adjusting to more change in life, we had no internet. And on top of it all, I've been bird-sitting for the past week. Bob the bird. I knew I didn't like birds, but this week has given me enough affirmation that I can say with complete confidence that I will NEVER own a bird. Though he's cute when he plays peekaboo and sings you songs, he squawks and hisses and nips at your fingers when he's angry at you. The con's outweigh the pro's. With all that said, I am back online and will soon post pictures of my new apartment that have been asked for. Though there are still a few things to be put away and hung on the walls, it's coming together. But for now I say goodnight. Oh and I would like to know if anyone has any thoughts on whether I should get bangs or not? peace.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
half a year.
Well folks, it's been almost 6 months since my move to the cities. As I prepare to move into my apartment and welcome yet another change in my life, I've been reflecting on what a roller coaster of a ride it has been so far. In a way it has been a blur and somewhat dream-like...it's kind of strange to think that this is where I live now and that this is my real life. Not really sure why it's so weird to me, but it is. So here is to new things to come and growing up...it's crazy up in here!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
consumed.
I just about posted the longest post ever with my word-vomit about all of my failures as a human. Don't worry though, I've spared you all! To make a long story short, it's easy to be consumed by things/thoughts/feelings about this world, rather than being focused on our eternal future/hope/glory. It's tough sometimes. In the chaos of life that is hitting me in the face and ripping me apart like a stage 5 hurricane I have turned to Psalm 46. In the midst of chaos of mountains quaking and nations being in uproar, God says in verse 10,
"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
So here I am. Being still. In awe of the wonder of who God is. Knowing he will be exalted.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Winter is Like Childbirth
My new thought… Winter is like childbirth. It’s terrible at the time and extremely painful, but there must be some endorphin released in the spring that makes you think, “That wasn’t so bad, I can do it again.” Why do we trick ourselves like this?
Monday, January 17, 2011
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
A day to celebrate a noteworthy man for a noteworthy cause! King was the chief spokesman for nonviolent activism in the civil right movement and successfully protested racial discrimination in federal and state law.
Did you know that the holiday was first observed in 1986 but not officially observed by all 50 states until 2000?? Many states resisted celebrating by giving it an alternative name or combining it with other holidays. (I thought this was shocking)
Did you know that the holiday was first observed in 1986 but not officially observed by all 50 states until 2000?? Many states resisted celebrating by giving it an alternative name or combining it with other holidays. (I thought this was shocking)
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” –Letter from Birmingham Jail
Thursday, January 13, 2011
SUN
I have never wanted spring so much in my life as I do this winter. I usually don’t mind winter. I enjoy the snow and bundling up and the quietness that comes on winter nights. And I’ve always found spring to be a little overrated anyway. ( I suppose spring isn’t really a season in North Dakota, it’s just when all of the snow melts and the bottoms of your pants get wet and dirty.) But as I think about it, it really is an equally wonderful time of year that I am eagerly awaiting this year! Color and plants starting to grow and sun… I think sun is what I am most looking forward to. I used to hate heat and dreaded going to Myrtle Beach for a summer because of the heat, but here I am 2 years later ready to book a flight to any beach that will take me. Until then I will get to the conference room where we each lunch early so I can sit in the spot that the sun hits…on the days that it’s shining.
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