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Monday, December 26, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
resolutions and a year in review: 2011
Last year I did a new year's meme reviewing 2010 with 3 top goals for 2011. Here were my top 3 goals:
1. pass my NCLEX on the first try! - check! I was so scared I wouldn't pass the first time around. I kept my test date a secret from everyone I know - even from my immediate family and my husband. Everyone kept trying to get my test date out of me, but I wouldn't budge. I remember my roommate asking me, "are you at least taking your NCLEX sometime in April?" and I replied with "yes" but in reality, I was taking it that very next morning! Must have been playing a good poker face there.
2. land an awesome RN job in either the ICU or ER. - I didn't get a job in the ICU, but I got a job in an ICU stepdown/telemetry unit, and honestly, I couldn't be happier. Maybe I will try the full-fledged ICU once I gain more experience. And I'm really glad I didn't start out in the ER. Again, maybe some other time. I may stay in progressive care for my entire nursing career, or maybe I will switch around. Only time will tell.
3. continue to perfect my cooking skills. - check! I'm no Martha Stewart but I think I can cook pretty well. I still have a lot to learn, though. The next test will be Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day dinner!
So, I would say, 100% :D Which never happens. Kudos to me!
And now, 2011 in review:
2011 Accomplishment - passing my NCLEX and becoming an RN! That was a huge accomplishment, I think.
2011 Discovery - hmm, I honestly do not know about this one. Last year I mentioned taro bubble tea hahaha. This year? I'm drawing a blank.
Favorite 2011 vacation/holiday - The only "vacations" I took were the 3 trips I made to Fort Leonard Wood, MO to visit hubby during BOLC. We were going to make a last-minute trip to Vegas but decided not to go because it was too expensive. We decided on Vegas once our good friend (who was also the best man at our wedding) comes back from deployment. I was going to make a trip to Ohio with hubby but couldn't because of work commitments. And I think my favorite holiday this year was Thanksgiving. Even though we were away from our families, it was nice to spend our first Thanksgiving together. I made an awesome Thanksgiving spread. We were invited to hubs' 1SGT's house, which was fun - a lot of delicious food and us wives just sat around talking about random things, including our Pinterest addictions haha. There was no Bunco at this gathering, however. Apparently Bunco is very popular among military wives and I have yet to attend a Bunco gathering.
Best dining in 2011 - probably Landry's in San Antonio. They have other locations, too, but this place is right along The Riverwalk (which is gorgeous, btw!) and the seafood is so fresh. I took my in-laws there on Veteran's Day weekend and they really enjoyed it. Landry's has the best appetizers. If you ever have a chance to go, try their shrimp en brochette and their jalapeno poppers. You won't be disappointed.
2011 regret - honestly, I cannot think of a single regret I have regarding this year. That is amazing.
Magic moment in 2011 - our wedding :) I wish Pinterest existed at that time because I see SO MANY cute ideas regarding weddings, but I consider our love and marriage more beautiful than the wedding itself.
What states did you visit in 2011? - Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas.
2012 Goals:
1. Read more. - I feel like I didn't read much because I was too busy studying for my NCLEX, and then when I got a job I still found myself studying. I am currently studying for some certifications related to my field, but lately I have also found more time to actually read things I enjoy. I am currently reading Confessions of a Military Wife by Mollie Gross which is HILARIOUS, btw. If you haven't read that book yet, you really need to. I also started reading The Hunger Games, the first of three books. Although aimed at younger adults, this book is so captivating. I cannot wait to read the other two books in the series. I also have a long list of books that I am just dying to read!
2. Learn something new. - as a nurse, I learn something new every day. This "learn something new" goal applies to something not related to my job - it could even be picking up a new hobby or "craft." Things that would be interesting: scrapbooking, knitting/crocheting, or amateur photography (I really need to invest in a GOOD camera, though, and not just a point-and-shoot one).
3. Volunteer. - I would love to volunteer on post. And by doing so, maybe I can finally meet other Army wives that I can connect with, but of course that wouldn't be the sole purpose. I love helping others and doing good for others (after all, "Do Good" was my sorority's motto!)
4. Work out more. - This has been a constant resolution of mine and a constant battle of success and failure. I was on a yoga kick for awhile, then I stopped. Then I started again, attending the free classes on post, but then I stopped because of work...I end up working the days they have yoga classes. I really like yoga, but I really enjoy bike riding, too. BLORA (stands for Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area) has a fierce mountain biking trail that I would probably never attempt, but maybe I can find some more "relaxed" trails around here to bike on. When the weather gets warmer, of course.
5. Go on a missions trip. - Every year, my hospital plans a missions trip to some area of the world. In the past, they have gone to Haiti, Costa Rica and Honduras, among other places. This year they went to Guyana, South America. I really wanted to go on this year's trip, but couldn't because of finances. I would love to go this upcoming year if finances allow and also depending on hubby's military duties.
6. Become more spiritually connected through God. - Growing up, I didn't go to church or anything. The only time I go to church is on Christmas Eve or Easter or something. To be honest, religion just seems awkward to me. Maybe that is because I don't really know about it. I'm not very familiar with The Bible or anything. I believe in God, but that is pretty much it. I really want to see myself grow spiritually.
7. Learn a new language. - I know random words and phrases in different languages, mainly Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, Japanese, Korean & Polish. I took Spanish in high school but all of that went down the drain and now that I live in Texas, I regret not knowing it. I would love to learn any language, really. My husband keeps asking me about going to Germany or South Korea, which I wouldn't mind either and that would give me a good "excuse" to learn either German or more Korean :)
What are your resolutions for 2012?
Monday, December 19, 2011
boredom
If you’ve never been clubbing, do you think you’d enjoy it or not? Why? If you do go clubbing, what do you like about it?
I don't like clubbing. Too hot, stupid drunk girls are all over the place and the music is so loud you can't have a conversation. Plus I don't really like dancing and I couldn't bust a move to save my life haha
What are you planning on doing for New Year’s Eve this year?
Spending it with hubby :) No plans to go to a party or anything. Thankfully I am off, but I work New Year's Day.
When you’re upset do you tend to eat more or less than usual? Is there anything else you do differently when you’re upset?
I eat less. I also tend to get quiet, but being quiet could mean other things, too...like I'm tired or something.
Can you recommend a good movie you’ve seen recently?
It came out in 2006, but Apocalypto. Probably one of the best movies I have seen in very long time. It is entirely in Yucatan Mayan language. It had me hooked from the very beginning all the way to the end.
How many people do you give gifts to at Christmas? Do you receive more than you give?
Immediate family, including my in-laws. And close friends.
What would your dream kitchen look like?
I never really thought about it, as long as it's big. With an island.
Are you a very tactile person? Do you enjoy physical contact with your friends, family etc?
Only with my husband ;) I don't mind hugs from family, though.
Do you think you will gain weight over the Christmas period?
I always gain a few pounds, but then I lose them so it's not a big deal.
What name do you go by?:
Melissa. or Mel.
Look past your computer screen, what's in front of you?:
Coffee table, TV.
Who was the last music artist you listened to a song by?:
Helena Beat - Foster The People ♥
Have you driven anywhere today?:
Yep. Went to the post office, Old Navy, the PX and the K-mart (Korean mart).
What are your plans for the coming weekend?:
It's Christmas, so doing Christmas-y things :)
Who was the last person you spoke to in person?:
the cashier person at the K-mart.
Do you prefer wearing hoodies to coats?:
I like hoodies. Nothing wrong with being comfortable. I like coats, too, tho!
Is there anything written on the shirt you are wearing?:
Nope
Do you own a tie dyed shirt?:
Actually I do. It's pink tie-dye and the front says "Friends don't let friends miss clinicals" and the back says "Akron Nursing" haha.
Did you make it yourself?:
nope
Have you ever been to another continent?:
Nope. Maybe one day...
Have ever had more than $500 in cash on you at one time?:
yeah
Do you ever go out of your way to avoid someone?:
oh yes hahaha.
How much was gas the last time you looked?:
$3.21, I think? And that was for 93. I have to put premium in my car.
Is there someone who would support you no matter what?:
Absolutely.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
Probably in Fort Leonard Wood lol...maybe still here. That would be nice. And probably with a kiddo.
Is there any actual chance you could be pregnant right now?:
Nope.
Do you still get carded when you try and buy things you're old enough to?:
Oh I get carded all of the time hahaha.
What was the last movie you saw in theaters?:
The Thing!
Is there someone you'd drop everything for if you could see them right now?:
Yes!
What is your birthstone?:
Pink Zircon, Opal.
Do you have any relatives who were born in another country?:
Yes, quite a few, actually. My grandparents (dad's side) are from Guangdong province, China (aka Canton)...my mom's parents, great grandma, my mom, my aunt and my mom's cousin and her husband are all from Poland. Eddie's grandma I think is from Czechoslovakia.
Would you rather visit Iceland for a week or Rome for a day?:
Rome..
Who was the last person you rode in a vehicle with?:
My husband.
What were you doing at this time yesterday?:
Probably also sitting on the couch on my computer.
What was the last thing you cooked?:
ravioli
When was the last time you slept in a bed with someone else?:
Saturday morning.
When was the last time you slept in a bed not your own?:
Not since May...
When was the last time you slept on something other than a bed?:
I don't know, probably a week ago?
What is in your pockets right now?:
Nothing. Don't have pockets.
What will you probably be doing at this time tomorrow?:
Getting ready for work.
Who do you look more like, your dad or your mom?:
My mom, I think.
Do you get along with your parents usually?:
Of course.
Where is your best friend at the moment?:
In OH-IO.
Are you an optimist?:
I try to be.
I don't like clubbing. Too hot, stupid drunk girls are all over the place and the music is so loud you can't have a conversation. Plus I don't really like dancing and I couldn't bust a move to save my life haha
What are you planning on doing for New Year’s Eve this year?
Spending it with hubby :) No plans to go to a party or anything. Thankfully I am off, but I work New Year's Day.
When you’re upset do you tend to eat more or less than usual? Is there anything else you do differently when you’re upset?
I eat less. I also tend to get quiet, but being quiet could mean other things, too...like I'm tired or something.
Can you recommend a good movie you’ve seen recently?
It came out in 2006, but Apocalypto. Probably one of the best movies I have seen in very long time. It is entirely in Yucatan Mayan language. It had me hooked from the very beginning all the way to the end.
How many people do you give gifts to at Christmas? Do you receive more than you give?
Immediate family, including my in-laws. And close friends.
What would your dream kitchen look like?
I never really thought about it, as long as it's big. With an island.
Are you a very tactile person? Do you enjoy physical contact with your friends, family etc?
Only with my husband ;) I don't mind hugs from family, though.
Do you think you will gain weight over the Christmas period?
I always gain a few pounds, but then I lose them so it's not a big deal.
What name do you go by?:
Melissa. or Mel.
Look past your computer screen, what's in front of you?:
Coffee table, TV.
Who was the last music artist you listened to a song by?:
Helena Beat - Foster The People ♥
Have you driven anywhere today?:
Yep. Went to the post office, Old Navy, the PX and the K-mart (Korean mart).
What are your plans for the coming weekend?:
It's Christmas, so doing Christmas-y things :)
Who was the last person you spoke to in person?:
the cashier person at the K-mart.
Do you prefer wearing hoodies to coats?:
I like hoodies. Nothing wrong with being comfortable. I like coats, too, tho!
Is there anything written on the shirt you are wearing?:
Nope
Do you own a tie dyed shirt?:
Actually I do. It's pink tie-dye and the front says "Friends don't let friends miss clinicals" and the back says "Akron Nursing" haha.
Did you make it yourself?:
nope
Have you ever been to another continent?:
Nope. Maybe one day...
Have ever had more than $500 in cash on you at one time?:
yeah
Do you ever go out of your way to avoid someone?:
oh yes hahaha.
How much was gas the last time you looked?:
$3.21, I think? And that was for 93. I have to put premium in my car.
Is there someone who would support you no matter what?:
Absolutely.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
Probably in Fort Leonard Wood lol...maybe still here. That would be nice. And probably with a kiddo.
Is there any actual chance you could be pregnant right now?:
Nope.
Do you still get carded when you try and buy things you're old enough to?:
Oh I get carded all of the time hahaha.
What was the last movie you saw in theaters?:
The Thing!
Is there someone you'd drop everything for if you could see them right now?:
Yes!
What is your birthstone?:
Pink Zircon, Opal.
Do you have any relatives who were born in another country?:
Yes, quite a few, actually. My grandparents (dad's side) are from Guangdong province, China (aka Canton)...my mom's parents, great grandma, my mom, my aunt and my mom's cousin and her husband are all from Poland. Eddie's grandma I think is from Czechoslovakia.
Would you rather visit Iceland for a week or Rome for a day?:
Rome..
Who was the last person you rode in a vehicle with?:
My husband.
What were you doing at this time yesterday?:
Probably also sitting on the couch on my computer.
What was the last thing you cooked?:
ravioli
When was the last time you slept in a bed with someone else?:
Saturday morning.
When was the last time you slept in a bed not your own?:
Not since May...
When was the last time you slept on something other than a bed?:
I don't know, probably a week ago?
What is in your pockets right now?:
Nothing. Don't have pockets.
What will you probably be doing at this time tomorrow?:
Getting ready for work.
Who do you look more like, your dad or your mom?:
My mom, I think.
Do you get along with your parents usually?:
Of course.
Where is your best friend at the moment?:
In OH-IO.
Are you an optimist?:
I try to be.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Books!
Hubs didn't want to leave me here by myself, but I told him I would be fine. Besides, I am a pretty independent person. I guess that's a good trait for a military wife to have. We'll see how that fares during deployment, however, seeing since I don't have any friends or family out here. But, I digress. I didn't want him to miss out on a trip home because I couldn't go. I forced him to go on his own for a week lol.
I really want to get a Kindle. I can't decide if I want the Kindle Keyboard of the Kindle Fire...the Kindle Fire is more fun but I also like the simplicity of the Kindle Keyboard.
I downloaded the Kindle app for my Macbook. The first book I downloaded happened to be this one:
I have been wanting to read this one for awhile now. I love this book! It's funny and so far everything is so true! Except my trips to the Commissary aren't nearly as horrifying haha. I started reading it earlier today after I came home from the airport and I am already halfway through. I highly recommend this one if you haven't read it already.
I have a whole list of other books on my list that I want to read, too:
* Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption - Laura Hillenbrand
* Left Neglected - Lisa Genova
* You Know When the Men Are Gone - Siobhan Fallon (I think I might read this one next...it's another military-themed novel, following the lives of several wives at Fort Hood, TX)
* The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
* Separated by Duty, United By Love - Shellie Vandevoorde
* I Love A Man in Uniform: A Memoir of Love, War and Other Battles - Lily Burana
* The Help - Kathryn Stockett
* The Making of a Nurse - Tilda Shalof
* A Dog's Purpose - W. Bruce Cannon
* Critical Care: A New Nurse Faces Death, Life & Everything in Between - Theresa Brown
Does anybody have any other suggestions?
Monday, December 12, 2011
Military Monday!
Be sure to link up at Semper Wifey's blog! :)
I hate coworkers who will say to you, "that's not patient" and therefore they won't help you. Nursing is a team effort. I try to pitch in and help those who are "not my patients" when I have the time. Not only will your fellow coworkers be thankful, it also earns you brownie points with your team and management. Not that I'm in for it for just brownie points. I truly enjoy helping others. Obviously, because I'm a nurse.
Work has been hell lately. We have one side where ALL of our totals as well as patients with sitters/in restraints are. I typically do my shifts in threes and of course I got stuck on that side for all 3 nights. I didn't really say anything except on my last night, telling the charge that side really needs to be split up. I mean, 3 out of my 4 patients were totals. It was awful. One night one kept climbing out of bed and became very agitated (and even a happy dose of Haldol only worked for about 30 minutes) and that went on until around 0500 when my "special bed" finally arrived (the other nights were fine thanks to my special bed :D)...my other patient down the hall was confused and kept pulling all of their wires off (thank goodness they didn't pull out my IV!)...and then of course my other patient was a 150kg bed-bound patient who can transfer from bed to chair (including a bedside commode) but decided they just wanted to lay in bed, oh, and they were going through a bowel prep...with a bleed. -_-
Speaking of bowel preps, I can't help but laugh at the names of those prep solutions. Especially "GoLytely." Seriously? haha.
Yesterday I took my ACLS course. For 10 hours. Normally they split the course up over 2 days - videos/teaching/practice and then the second day you do your skills test and written test. In this class we did the whole thing in one day. It was a very long day, but I passed my megacode and everything else and now I am ACLS-certified! Just don't go and expect me to run a code haha. Docs typically run them, anyway. By the time we find a patient and initiate CPR and get them hooked up to the crash cart, the ER doc is already in the room leading everything.
And I wish I didn't have to get recertified in BLS every 2 years now. They test you on BLS in ACLS, so having a BLS certification in addition to ACLS is kind of redundant, IMO. Oh well...
Next up is NRP (neonatal resucitation program) and PALS (pediatric advanced live support), even though I refuse to take kiddos on my unit.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Christmas survey
Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot chocolate all the way! I cringe at the thought of egg nog...yuck!
Colored lights on tree/house or white? I love them both, actually, but I think I like white lights a little more. Our tree has white lights :)
Do you hang mistletoe? Nope. I can kiss my husband any time I want to ;)
When do you put your decorations up? Typically after Thanksgiving.
What is your favorite holiday dish? pierogi :) my aunt's tastes like the bomb dot com haha...she makes 3 different kinds - potato & cheese, saurkraut and plum. The plum ones are my favorite. She also makes this mushroom soup with these VERY expensive mushrooms from Poland - I'm talking $80/lb! I always feel bad because I never eat the mushrooms (never have been a big mushroom fan) but the flavor of the broth is fantastic. This is your "typical" slovak Christmas Eve meal.
Favorite Holiday memory as a child? Coming down the stairs and seeing the living room OVERFLOWING with gifts. I know, sounds a little materialistic, but I was young at that time haha.
When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I realized Santa's handwriting looked just like my mom's haha.
Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Growing up we did. Sometimes it would be after midnight so it was technically Christmas Day by then haha
How do you decorate your Christmas tree? with lights and ornaments :P
Snow! Love it or Dread it? Dread it. I only like it when I am inside cuddled up in a blanket and not out in it :P
Do you remember your favorite gift? the N64 we got was really cool. My brother & I didn't quite react like "The Nintendo Kid" tho lol, but we loved it!
What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin pie! Mmmm :)
What is your favorite holiday tradition? Christmas Eve dinner that I talked about above. That is only when I go to Connecticut for Christmas, though.
Candy Canes: Yuck or Yum? They're okay.
Favorite Christmas movie? Christmas Vacation haha.
Saddest Christmas Song? Oh, I dunno. I like Christmas music.
What is your favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night and Silent Night.
Colored lights on tree/house or white? I love them both, actually, but I think I like white lights a little more. Our tree has white lights :)
Do you hang mistletoe? Nope. I can kiss my husband any time I want to ;)
When do you put your decorations up? Typically after Thanksgiving.
What is your favorite holiday dish? pierogi :) my aunt's tastes like the bomb dot com haha...she makes 3 different kinds - potato & cheese, saurkraut and plum. The plum ones are my favorite. She also makes this mushroom soup with these VERY expensive mushrooms from Poland - I'm talking $80/lb! I always feel bad because I never eat the mushrooms (never have been a big mushroom fan) but the flavor of the broth is fantastic. This is your "typical" slovak Christmas Eve meal.
Favorite Holiday memory as a child? Coming down the stairs and seeing the living room OVERFLOWING with gifts. I know, sounds a little materialistic, but I was young at that time haha.
When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I realized Santa's handwriting looked just like my mom's haha.
Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Growing up we did. Sometimes it would be after midnight so it was technically Christmas Day by then haha
How do you decorate your Christmas tree? with lights and ornaments :P
Snow! Love it or Dread it? Dread it. I only like it when I am inside cuddled up in a blanket and not out in it :P
Do you remember your favorite gift? the N64 we got was really cool. My brother & I didn't quite react like "The Nintendo Kid" tho lol, but we loved it!
What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin pie! Mmmm :)
What is your favorite holiday tradition? Christmas Eve dinner that I talked about above. That is only when I go to Connecticut for Christmas, though.
Candy Canes: Yuck or Yum? They're okay.
Favorite Christmas movie? Christmas Vacation haha.
Saddest Christmas Song? Oh, I dunno. I like Christmas music.
What is your favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night and Silent Night.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Friday Fill-in
It has been awhile since I have done one of these. Be sure to link up at Wifey's blog!1. If I could be on any reality TV show, I would be on...The Amazing Race.
2. This past Thanksgiving was...my first Thanksgiving cooking! The turkey was phenomenal - so tender, moist & juicy with flavor! I was very impressed and hubs told me I did an awesome job. We celebrated our Thanksgiving on Sunday (11/27) because of work and hubs had to pull overnight staff duty on Saturday. I ended up turning our turkey leftovers into a very delicious turkey pot pie. I guess I can cook after all ;)
3. I'm looking forward to December because... it's our first Christmas as a married couple :)
4. One thing I would like to accomplish this month is... pass my ACLS course with flying colors! It's coming up on December 11th. Still have studying to do!
5. To me, winter is...I don't like winter. I hate being cold all of the time and I only like snow for a little bit and then I get sick and tired of it. Lucky for me I live in Texas now and even though it snows here it won't be anything like Ohio :)
Thursday, December 1, 2011
this too shall pass...
Finally got our tree up! And of course my favorite ornament on our tree:
Bought it for $10 at Target the other day. Money goes towards charity for books and things to help children of deployed soldiers help cope during that time.
And speaking of deployments...hubby is deploying, and relatively soon, too. We lucked out, though. He's only going for a few months as opposed to 8 or 9 because the unit he is going to is already there. Hubs jumped the gun and was able to work it out so that he can go over there.
He really wants to deploy. I don't blame him. You don't go through 4 years of ROTC and 4-5 months of MPBOLC to sit on staff duty for the rest of your military career. I'm so proud of him. He thinks I should be happy about him deploying, but I'm not. I'm happy for him because this is something he has been waiting for and with things sort of toning down in the sandbox and Mr. President slowly withdrawing our troops, he's afraid he will never deploy as a PL. From my point of view, though, I don't think any milspouse can be thrilled about a deployment. Even though it is only for a few months as opposed to 8-9 which I am so thankful for, a deployment is still a deployment, and I'm still very scared.
Lots of thoughts racing through my head...
Monday, November 21, 2011
misc monday: good news for online shoppers
I found this website called Retail Me Not...tons of online coupon codes for websites! Hubs really wanted a Cleveland Browns Tervis tumbler (the BEST coffee tumblers, btw!) and I made the mistake of not grabbing it the first time at my local Bed Bath & Beyond. I decided to order one for him online (and I was better off because he liked this design better). I also decided to order another one for myself - "Nurse" with a stethoscope. I couldn't pass that up! Anyway, I decided to do a Google search for online coupon codes and this website was the first to pop up.I was browsing through the different codes. I tried both "MILITARY" (10% off) and "RETAILMN15" (15% off + free shipping on all orders $75+) and both worked, but you cannot combine offers. I think this is great for those that like to do online shopping :)
Happy Military Monday!
A little bit about me:
* I'm 24 and new(ish) to the Army life. My husband & I got married on May 14th of this year and two days later we journeyed over 1,000 miles south to hubs' first duty station at Fort Hood, TX. So far I really like it.
* I'm a registered nurse who works night shift on a cardiac step-down. It's tough being a new grad, but I still love every moment of it!
* I love The Walking Dead (tho it's been kind of lame lately, where are all of the walkers?!), House & Grey's Anatomy...and Mercy, but I was so sad to see that show end!
* I drive a 2011 Volkswagen GTI and I love it very much :) Hubs drives a 2010 Subaru WRX and he loves it very much (we like cars!) :)
* I have a serious coffee addiction.
* I also have a serious Pinterest addiction.
* We have no kiddos or fur-babies yet. I want to get a Russian Blue kitty. Not ready for actual kiddos yet...probably won't be for at least another couple of years!
Fort Hood - 2 free pies & a movie!
For my Fort Hood followers/those who are in the Fort Hood area and just stopping by - don't forget to get your 2 free pies and movies! USO is handing them out from 1000-1800. Both commissaries are open today. Warrior Way Commissary is handing out 1 movie; I went to Clear Creek Commissary and they were handing out 2 movies! Pies include apple, pumpkin, cherry, blueberry & sweet potato (maybe one more but those are the flavors I remember).
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
It's been awhile...
Sorry for the lack of updates. I have been busy with work - on for 3 nights, off for a day and a half then on again for 3 nights - and we had our first visit from our in-laws this past weekend!
They flew into Austin on Friday for Veteran's Day. We took them to lunch at The Salt Lick in Round Rock (very yummy BBQ place, featured on Man Vs. Food!) and took them around Fort Hood.
On Saturday, we drove to San Antonio and went to the zoo there. Afterwards we headed to The Alamo and had dinner on The Riverwalk at Landry's (best seafood ever!) and spent the night at The Marriott, about 8 miles from downtown. I love The Riverwalk and I want to go back there for the holidays because I heard that is when that place really "comes alive" (it's always busy, though!) The place was already decorated with lights but I guess they don't come on until closer to Christmas.
Sunday was a lazy football day. I'm not a big fan of football, to be honest. I would rather just know if someone wins or loses instead of sitting there watching the game. I always fall asleep lol. That doesn't mean I don't have favorite teams, though :) The Browns lost which is no surprise to me (I hate the Browns anyway) but I'm happy the Texans won :)
On Monday we had lunch at Pappadeux, another seafood restaurant. For my Ohio followers, there is one in Cincinnati ;) You supposedly get 30% off if you are military, but this one in Austin said you only get the discount if you are uniform. WTF! Unless you're coming home, who has time to drive all the way out to Austin during their lunch break lol. Anyway, Pappadeux was decent, but still doesn't beat Landry's in San Antonio. Hubs' parents are a fan, though, so we took them there. Afterwards we drove them to the airport and they were off to Ohio :( This weekend went by way too fast.
Overall it was a nice visit. Eddie & I suggested to take them to Houston/Galveston or Corpus Christi on their next visit. We even thought about renting a condo for a week at one of those places, or at South Padre Island. Something different instead of going to Myrtle Beach or Seabrook (SC). It will be like another family vacation :) I also want to do that for our wedding anniversary.
Hubs was talking to me the other day on how he may never deploy as a PL. He kind of got screwed on his assignment, I guess. The Army was thinking about sending him to Iraq back in July, but instead they chose the other PL because that guy isn't married and obviously my husband is. I was happy because that meant my husband would be home but at the same time I felt bad because I know how badly my husband wants to deploy. You don't go through 4 years of college/ROTC and then 5 months of BOLC to sit on staff duty for the rest of your military career. That would be like me spending $80,000 on my BSN/RN and never getting a job as a nurse or something.
His unit is non-deployable at the moment because they just came back in August. Another unit was going to go sometime this year but they didn't need a PL...and then those deployment plans fell through so they are no longer deploying. Yet another unit is to deploy early next year. Hubs' CO is trying to get him a spot on that deployment but as of now, no luck.
In March, hubs' unit is going to be doing a CCMRF ("see-smurf") mission. I forgot what it what stands for, but basically my husband and his unit have a 72-hour response time to natural disasters, terrorist attacks, zombie apocalypses, etc. that happen here in the U.S. It doesn't "count" as a deployment and during the whole CCMRF period, the unit is non-deployable. Hubs' PL time ends sometime this upcoming year so basically, unless he gets a spot in another unit, he will not deploy as a PL. If he deploys afterwards (say if he is a CPT or something) he said he'll be stuck on staff duty. I don't know how true that is...I've seen pictures of CPT's and even majors out doing patrols and stuff.
Things can change, though. And I know you never know with the military. So I guess we'll see. Regardless if my husband deploys as a PL or not (or ever, since we're supposedly slowly pulling out our troops from the sandbox), I'm still so proud of him and thankful for his service. And no one better ever dare say that my husband "never made a difference."
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Free calling cards for your deployed loved ones!
AAFES PX/BX is still offering free pre-paid phone cards for your deployed loved ones! Offer is still good until 4 November!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
?
And btw, the Main PX at Fort Hood is huuuuuuge!
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Tuesday, October 18, 2011
instant nurse: just add coffee.
I'm starting my 3 night stretch tonight.
I hope work doesn't suck.
Some nurses left and now the ICU is expanding, so that takes away some nurses from my unit who want to work permanently in the ICU.
Which means we're becoming short-staffed.
I thought about picking up some OT shifts to help combat the short-staffedness, but I'm trying to think of a way to do it without burning myself out. After 3 nights in a row I'm dead...we'll see!
Monday, October 17, 2011
Run for your lives.
This past weekend hubs and I saw The Thing, which is a prequel to The Thing (made in 1982) which was a remake of The Thing From Another World in the 50's lol. The Thing is one of my favorite horror movies. It's about an alien that crash lands in Antarctica, is founded by a group of humans and then the alien starts attacking them. The alien attacks them and then imitates it's victim, creating a perfect copy of the victim - this leads to mistrust amongst the group because who is really human and who is just an imitation? The Thing (2011 prequel) shows everything that happens and ends where The Thing (1982) starts.
Although the 2011 version had me jumping out of my seat several times, I still think the 1982 version is better. Highly recommend :)
The Walking Dead also premiered last night! I'm excited for this season :) And during the commercials I saw an ad for a 5k zombie-infested obstacle course race! There will be one in Austin on December 15th, 2012. I hate running and I don't think I could do a 5k, but this looks really fun. It's like Warrior Dash, only 10 times cooler in my opinion. I have over a year to train if I want to do it!
Although the 2011 version had me jumping out of my seat several times, I still think the 1982 version is better. Highly recommend :)
The Walking Dead also premiered last night! I'm excited for this season :) And during the commercials I saw an ad for a 5k zombie-infested obstacle course race! There will be one in Austin on December 15th, 2012. I hate running and I don't think I could do a 5k, but this looks really fun. It's like Warrior Dash, only 10 times cooler in my opinion. I have over a year to train if I want to do it!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
loneliness...
I was supposed to work tonight.
I came into work and the moment I got there, the unit received the on-call list.
It was between me and two other nurses. They said I could stay since I was the first one there.
Then the other nurses came. One refused to go home (she already dropped off her kids and other stuff) and the other volunteered, but she lives about 30min away whereas I only live about 8min away. I volunteered since I live the closest and I don't have kids to worry about.
It just sucks because I was already there, all ready to go!
We'll see if I get called in tonight.
It just sucks because I wasted my whole day sleeping and now I plan on staying up all night so I can stay on my sleeping schedule. I'm supposed to work the next 2 nights.
I really hate staying up all night, though. I get bored with sitting around on my computer and half of the time there isn't anything to watch on TV. Nothing interesting on Netflix, either. I could CLEAN, but hubby is now asleep and I need to be quiet.
It really sucks not having friends here. Sure, there are my work friends, but those are work friends. and I try to go to all of the monthly FRG meetings, but sometimes with my work schedule that is impossible. I feel like I have nothing in common with the other FRG members...they are all older, more established wives with kids. Don't get me wrong, everyone I met has been very nice, I just feel like we have nothing in common. Maybe once hubs & I have kiddos of our someday that will change. We will see...
In other news, I received a $0.50 raise, hooray! :D
I came into work and the moment I got there, the unit received the on-call list.
It was between me and two other nurses. They said I could stay since I was the first one there.
Then the other nurses came. One refused to go home (she already dropped off her kids and other stuff) and the other volunteered, but she lives about 30min away whereas I only live about 8min away. I volunteered since I live the closest and I don't have kids to worry about.
It just sucks because I was already there, all ready to go!
We'll see if I get called in tonight.
It just sucks because I wasted my whole day sleeping and now I plan on staying up all night so I can stay on my sleeping schedule. I'm supposed to work the next 2 nights.
I really hate staying up all night, though. I get bored with sitting around on my computer and half of the time there isn't anything to watch on TV. Nothing interesting on Netflix, either. I could CLEAN, but hubby is now asleep and I need to be quiet.
It really sucks not having friends here. Sure, there are my work friends, but those are work friends. and I try to go to all of the monthly FRG meetings, but sometimes with my work schedule that is impossible. I feel like I have nothing in common with the other FRG members...they are all older, more established wives with kids. Don't get me wrong, everyone I met has been very nice, I just feel like we have nothing in common. Maybe once hubs & I have kiddos of our someday that will change. We will see...
In other news, I received a $0.50 raise, hooray! :D
more pinterest ideas
Hubby gave this two thumbs up :)
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Sunday, October 9, 2011
Crockpot Lasagna
I also really need to start taking pictures of the whole set-up/cooking process.
1 package of ground beef (I used 93% lean and the meat is still moist, not dry at all!) - this package was roughly around 2lbs, btw
2 jars of pasta sauce (I used Prego Tomato, Onion & Garlic)
Ricotta cheese
1 package of shredded Italian cheese (I used Italian Blend)
Lasagna noodles, *uncooked*
Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste (I used to season the beef)
Brown the beef in a skillet, season to taste. Drain off excess grease. Mix in jars of pasta sauce.
For the crockpot, I suggest spraying with non-stick spray...I didn't have any, so I just took a towel and rubbed a bit of vegetable oil all along the sides.
Cover the bottom of the pot with the beef/pasta sauce mixture.
Layer lasagna noodles (I had to break mine up a bit to make them fit).
Spread ricotta cheese. I admit it was hard to spread this smoothly.
Sprinkle Italian cheese(s) on top of ricotta.
Top with more beef/pasta mixture and repeat.
I made 2 layers using all ingredients, then once I ended with the beef/pasta mixture, I added more lasagna noodles then topped with the remaining beef/pasta sauce mixture. The crockpot was about 2/3 full.
Cover and cook on LOW for about 4 hours, then about 5min before serving sprinkle some more Italian cheese(s) on top.
So yummy!
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Saturday, October 8, 2011
Thank you for the birthday wishes :) I had to work the night of my birthday, but the night before we went to this sushi place in Harker Heights called Shogun. One of the nurses I work with used to work there and highly recommended it. We were pretty impressed! It still doesn't compare to our FAVORITE place back home, but I'm happy to have found some GOOD sushi.
Work wasn't too bad. Our crazy director got fired earlier this week for unknown reasons, but all of us have a good idea as to why. The start of the shift was hectic; I had a patient whom was anxiously awaiting discharge. We were awaiting the doc to write the paperwork and prescriptions. Patient was supposed to be discharged at 1830 but obviously wasn't. It was 1945, I told the patient I kept checking but nothing was in the computer. Patient was getting really angry told me to take out their IV right now. I told them I would grab a piece a gauze and come back. I got the piece of gauze, but I wanted to check one more time to see if the paperwork and the ORDER were in the computer (can't discharge a patient unless the order is in there). Nothing. I started to walk back to the room and the patient was walking down the hall, then said I "lied" to them because I didn't come back to take out their IV. Then the patient threatened to "sue the hospital" because they has been "lied to" during their whole stay (huh?) We told them they could leave but they would be leaving AMA and would need to sign a form, but they refused to sign. One of the hospitalist doctors (who doesn't like me, but whatever) was nearby and since this was a hospitalist patient, we tried to see if this doctor could do anything and hasten the process. No discharge order, no prescriptions. Finally at 2008 the order popped into the computer and the prescriptions were tubed up to the unit. The patient's physician called me and was angry with me, saying that everything was in there an hour ago, blah blah blah..."you're creating mistrust between physicians, nurses and patients" blah blah blah...then told me to tell him what the time said on the order. I told him 2008. He basically said that wasn't possible, it wasn't his fault, etc. While I was listening to this physician's bickering, the charge nurse printed off the paperwork and gave the patient his instructions (which they didn't want to listen to, they just wanted to sign and GTFO) and their prescriptions. The physician then decided to call the RN who did the paperwork in the first place, then I never heard back from him ever again.
Turns out another nurse from A DIFFERENT FLOOR put in the paperwork and the order. I told my supervisor (and made sure the night supervisor knew about it, too) who then called this RN and said she shouldn't have done that. The doctor should have been the one to put everything in.
WTF. Then to top it off, the patient went home without their inhaler (they left in such a rush) which I could totally get in trouble for...but I called the patient later that evening and told them they could come pick it up. They told me they appreciated the call. Maybe now that the patient was home that eased up some of the tension.
And while all of this was going on I also had a patient going through acute ETOH intoxication with a BAC of 407 (with that level you should be in a coma!) with a VERY high BP (systolic >180, diastolic was >100!) so I was also trying to PRIORITIZE...but I guess I was "wrong." Whatever.
Why do I always have to get the patients and family members that are upset with something? A month ago I had family members who were very upset because the patient didn't have an MRI that day, even though the doctors said it wasn't medically necessary. Oh, and they were also pissed because one of the tele leads was off when they walked in (they pop off all of the time!) They were telling me this is all my fault, etc...I literally just got report then went to see my other patient because they were DESATING to the 70's...again, I was prioritizing. I didn't tell them why I was in another room, I just said I was in another room...and the family member, "a fellow nurse", had the nerve to say to me, "I don't care if the patient next door was DYING, this is unacceptable" - WTF!!! Family members were yelling at me/the charge/the doctor in the hallway and all of this bickering and shit went on for FOUR HOURS....finally they apologized, but really. WHY ME???
Last night hubs and I were in the mood for Italian, so we went to Giovanni's in Copperas Cove. Too bad they were PACKED, so we went down the street to Seoul Garden for some Korean instead lol. Tomorrow we're planning on going to Waco to go to the zoo lol...just for something to do and to get out of here for a bit! Plus there is a Quaker Steak and I'm dying to have some buckeye BBQ ribs and supercharged wings :)
Work wasn't too bad. Our crazy director got fired earlier this week for unknown reasons, but all of us have a good idea as to why. The start of the shift was hectic; I had a patient whom was anxiously awaiting discharge. We were awaiting the doc to write the paperwork and prescriptions. Patient was supposed to be discharged at 1830 but obviously wasn't. It was 1945, I told the patient I kept checking but nothing was in the computer. Patient was getting really angry told me to take out their IV right now. I told them I would grab a piece a gauze and come back. I got the piece of gauze, but I wanted to check one more time to see if the paperwork and the ORDER were in the computer (can't discharge a patient unless the order is in there). Nothing. I started to walk back to the room and the patient was walking down the hall, then said I "lied" to them because I didn't come back to take out their IV. Then the patient threatened to "sue the hospital" because they has been "lied to" during their whole stay (huh?) We told them they could leave but they would be leaving AMA and would need to sign a form, but they refused to sign. One of the hospitalist doctors (who doesn't like me, but whatever) was nearby and since this was a hospitalist patient, we tried to see if this doctor could do anything and hasten the process. No discharge order, no prescriptions. Finally at 2008 the order popped into the computer and the prescriptions were tubed up to the unit. The patient's physician called me and was angry with me, saying that everything was in there an hour ago, blah blah blah..."you're creating mistrust between physicians, nurses and patients" blah blah blah...then told me to tell him what the time said on the order. I told him 2008. He basically said that wasn't possible, it wasn't his fault, etc. While I was listening to this physician's bickering, the charge nurse printed off the paperwork and gave the patient his instructions (which they didn't want to listen to, they just wanted to sign and GTFO) and their prescriptions. The physician then decided to call the RN who did the paperwork in the first place, then I never heard back from him ever again.
Turns out another nurse from A DIFFERENT FLOOR put in the paperwork and the order. I told my supervisor (and made sure the night supervisor knew about it, too) who then called this RN and said she shouldn't have done that. The doctor should have been the one to put everything in.
WTF. Then to top it off, the patient went home without their inhaler (they left in such a rush) which I could totally get in trouble for...but I called the patient later that evening and told them they could come pick it up. They told me they appreciated the call. Maybe now that the patient was home that eased up some of the tension.
And while all of this was going on I also had a patient going through acute ETOH intoxication with a BAC of 407 (with that level you should be in a coma!) with a VERY high BP (systolic >180, diastolic was >100!) so I was also trying to PRIORITIZE...but I guess I was "wrong." Whatever.
Why do I always have to get the patients and family members that are upset with something? A month ago I had family members who were very upset because the patient didn't have an MRI that day, even though the doctors said it wasn't medically necessary. Oh, and they were also pissed because one of the tele leads was off when they walked in (they pop off all of the time!) They were telling me this is all my fault, etc...I literally just got report then went to see my other patient because they were DESATING to the 70's...again, I was prioritizing. I didn't tell them why I was in another room, I just said I was in another room...and the family member, "a fellow nurse", had the nerve to say to me, "I don't care if the patient next door was DYING, this is unacceptable" - WTF!!! Family members were yelling at me/the charge/the doctor in the hallway and all of this bickering and shit went on for FOUR HOURS....finally they apologized, but really. WHY ME???
Last night hubs and I were in the mood for Italian, so we went to Giovanni's in Copperas Cove. Too bad they were PACKED, so we went down the street to Seoul Garden for some Korean instead lol. Tomorrow we're planning on going to Waco to go to the zoo lol...just for something to do and to get out of here for a bit! Plus there is a Quaker Steak and I'm dying to have some buckeye BBQ ribs and supercharged wings :)
Thursday, October 6, 2011
happy birthday to meeeee....
I turn 24 today, yikes.
Or as one of hubby's 1SG's told him, "oh is your wife turning 17? One more year and she'll be legal!" bahaha.
We had plans to go to Vegas this weekend but we decided not to go because it would be too expensive, especially for only 3 nights. I'm still looking forward to the 4 day weekend, though :)
Or as one of hubby's 1SG's told him, "oh is your wife turning 17? One more year and she'll be legal!" bahaha.
We had plans to go to Vegas this weekend but we decided not to go because it would be too expensive, especially for only 3 nights. I'm still looking forward to the 4 day weekend, though :)
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
thunderstorm!
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Monday, September 26, 2011
what's YOUR song? week 33!
It has been awhile since I have done this! Be sure to head over to Goodnight Moon to link-up :)
This week: You Make Me Happy - Lindsey Ray
This song makes me feel all bubbly and carefree and happy! Enjoy!
This week: You Make Me Happy - Lindsey Ray
This song makes me feel all bubbly and carefree and happy! Enjoy!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Friday Fill-in!
Be sure to link up at Wifey's blog!
1. My favorite thing that happened this week was....My week was pretty uneventful lol. Maybe it was buying my new pair of gray Toms :)
2. Find a penny, pick it up and wonder...where that penny has been. germs D:
3. Autumn is officially here and my favorite part of the season is...no, I live in Texas. Autumn is NOT officially here, it's still hotter than shit outside. At least we're down to the double digits and late evening/early morning is pretty cold, which I like :) It was 63 degrees this morning when I left work and I thought it was so cold! I had to turn up the heat and had a chance to use my heated seats in my car :) But anyway, to answer the question, my favorite parts of the season are the color-changing trees, the cooler weather (Autumn is my favorite season!) and pumpkin spice lattes haha :)
4. One of the things I would like to do before winter arrives is...I don't know. Maybe go mountain biking at BLORA.
5. I (would/would not/might) be willing to participate in MilSpouse Secret Santa. :)
1. My favorite thing that happened this week was....My week was pretty uneventful lol. Maybe it was buying my new pair of gray Toms :)
2. Find a penny, pick it up and wonder...where that penny has been. germs D:
3. Autumn is officially here and my favorite part of the season is...no, I live in Texas. Autumn is NOT officially here, it's still hotter than shit outside. At least we're down to the double digits and late evening/early morning is pretty cold, which I like :) It was 63 degrees this morning when I left work and I thought it was so cold! I had to turn up the heat and had a chance to use my heated seats in my car :) But anyway, to answer the question, my favorite parts of the season are the color-changing trees, the cooler weather (Autumn is my favorite season!) and pumpkin spice lattes haha :)
4. One of the things I would like to do before winter arrives is...I don't know. Maybe go mountain biking at BLORA.
5. I (would/would not/might) be willing to participate in MilSpouse Secret Santa. :)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
....and a simple dessert....microwave cinnamon apples!
Okay, the moment I saw this, I had to try it.
Cinnamon apples = fall. It's not very fall-ish in Texas right now, which makes me sad. Fall is my favorite season.
1 apple (I used a Gala apple for this because that is what I have on hand, but you can use whatever apple you like!)
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp corn starch (I used all-purpose flour because that's all I have on hand)
1 spoonful of sugar (I just used regular granulated sugar...but if you would rather use Stevia or Splenda or something, go right ahead!)
1 tbsp water
Raisins (optional)
Slice your apple. I'm lazy and use an apple slicer. Best thing ever. You can choose to leave the skin on or peel it off...I left it on, but I think next time I will peel them. Throw everything into a bag and shake/mix around until everything is evenly coated. Open the bag a bit to vent, place in the microwave for 2 minutes and viola! They're done :) Easy clean-up, too...just throw away the bag! But be careful, because the bag will be VERY hot and be careful of steam burns!
This would be amazing with some vanilla ice cream.... :)
Hainanese Chicken Rice
My apartment smells HEAVENLY right now!!!
This is a Hainanese Chicken Rice recipe, adapted from HERE.
Although the name is of Chinese origin, this is considered to be Singapore's national dish. It's so simple!
Of course, I can't get a true "kampong" chicken (a chicken from a village) and I honestly do not have a pot big enough to boil a whole chicken. So instead, I bought a $5 rotisserie chicken from Walmart lol. I carved out all of the breast meat and cut it into smaller chunks. You could use the leg meat if you want, but I prefer all white meat.
1 chicken
3 cups of Jasmine rice, uncooked
3 cups of chicken stock (I used Swenson's 30% Reduced Sodium Chicken Stock)
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 slice of ginger, minced
matchstick carrots, diced (I just grabbed a handful from the bag lol)
vegetable oil
salt & pepper to taste
Take the Jasmine rice and rinse a couple of times, then soak in water for at least 10 minutes. Drain and try to get as much liquid out as possible.
While my rice was soaking, I went ahead and minced the garlic and the ginger. I heated a pot with some vegetable oil and added the garlic and ginger and stir-fried on medium-high heat. OMG the smell was amazing and SO FRAGRANT!! Just be careful not to burn them, which I have a tendency of doing...but today, I was successful! Yes!
Once the garlic and ginger are fragrant, add the rice and stir fry for a couple of minutes.
Add the stock and carrots. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then turn the heat to low and cover for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, take put the pot aside (with the lid still on) and let it sit for another 5-10 minutes. Refrain from opening the lid, because this the heat/steam is crucial to the cooking process for the rice!
While I was waiting, I sliced up the chicken breast. Once the rice has "rested" go ahead and add your chicken and you're ready to go!!!
This was soooooooooo delicious!!! I'm sure it would taste even better if I cooked my own chicken and made my own stock, but for my adaptation this was VERY tasty. The rice was perfect, the carrots were tender (I was afraid they would be underdone...probably so if I used larger chunks) and the rotisserie chicken compliments the rice very well. I highly suggest you try this!
Vegas! and travel-weary.
Hubs & I (along with our friends Bryant [who was our best man at our wedding] and Ryan) decided we're going to Vegas next month. We're staying for 3 nights/4 days. It will be nice to get out of Texas for a few days and to see some friends we haven't seen in awhile! Bryant will also be deploying later this year, so this is pretty much the last time we'll get to see him, for awhile, anyways.
We thought about driving, but it's like 24 hours. If we were staying longer I would consider it, but since I work Thursday night and we're leaving Friday morning, I figured we should fly instead.
But I hate flying. Actually, I'm terrified.
I used to love flying, but not anymore. The last time I was on a plane (which was nearly 5 years ago) I freaked because we ran into some turbulence and then the plane literally DROPPED what felt like several hundred feet. My anxiety was at an all-time high.
I'm not going to let my fear of flying stop me from going on this trip, though! Unless something else comes up. It's going to be expensive - we're looking at spending between $1100-$1200 just on round-trip plane tickets and a hotel alone, but I know it will be worth it. Plus I've never been to Vegas!
I thought about either bringing a carry-on duffel bag with me, or sharing a suitcase with hubs (which I feel would be cheaper, because either way we're bringing a suitcase). As I mentioned before, I haven't flown in nearly 5 years, and this was before the whole "3-1-1" rule was implemented (3 oz bottles or less in a 1 quart bag, 1 carry-on per passenger). Sooooo if I throw all of my stuff in a suitcase, do I have to abide by that 3-1 rule, or can my liquids/lotions/creams be of any size? Will my purse count as a carry-on? Do my liquids/lotions/creams have to be in those clear plastic bottles that they sell at Target/Walmart, or can I get away with "travel" products in their original packaging (such as the miniature lotions/shower gels/body sprays they sell at Bath & Body Works?)
And of course, what should we do when we get to Vegas? I'm not sure where we're staying at yet...Bryant is staying at The Luxor hotel on the strip, but at $168/night (and increasing rate on the weekend), we might stay elsewhere.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Military Monday blog hop!
:)
Because I work night shift, my sleeping schedule is constantly messed up.
Especially when my manager happened to split up my shifts this past week. I'd rather just do my three in a row and be done with it.
I woke up at 0300...I was wide awake! So I lazed around, added about another 230967203690276 pins (at least it feels that way!) then at 0730 I prepped the ribs for the crock pot.
...Though they aren't really ribs because only like 3 of them actually have the bone lol. They're more just like chunks of meat.
I trimmed some fat, seasoned with salt and pepper and threw them in the crock pot with a whole bottle of Sweet Baby Ray's honey BBQ sauce. Put the pot on low. The ribs have been braising for about 9 hours and I took a little taste and they are AMAZING. So tender they literally fall apart and melt in your mouth. Mmmm.
Now to wait for hubs to get home. It's so hard resisting the urge to eat a bunch of ribs now!
Friday, September 9, 2011
Milspouse Friday Fill-in!
1. My plans for Labor Day included being lazy! That's exactly what hubs & I did :) We had some pool time because it was in the 80's that day and GORGEOUS (I have been trying to avoid going outside because Texas has been so damn hot!) and I'm still as pale as ever haha. I would have loved to grill out but we don't have a grill and we're not allowed to have them because we live in an apartment, or hang out with friends, but that's the problem - we really don't have any "friends" here!
2. Call me crazy, but sometimes I just need to be alone.
3. One of the funniest things I've seen lately is the show Arrested Development! Hubby and I decided to randomly watch it one night on Netflix and it's hilarious! I recommend watching it :)
4. It's strange...a messy kitchen drives me crazy...but if any other place in the house is messy that is perfectly fine with me!
5. One, two, buckle my shoe...three, four, shut the door! :P
2. Call me crazy, but sometimes I just need to be alone.
3. One of the funniest things I've seen lately is the show Arrested Development! Hubby and I decided to randomly watch it one night on Netflix and it's hilarious! I recommend watching it :)
4. It's strange...a messy kitchen drives me crazy...but if any other place in the house is messy that is perfectly fine with me!
5. One, two, buckle my shoe...three, four, shut the door! :P
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Pinning, anyone?
How many of you pin?
I just started pinning yesterday and I'm already up to 315 of them.
IT'S SO ADDICTING.
http://pinterest.com/wh0aitsmel/
I just started pinning yesterday and I'm already up to 315 of them.
IT'S SO ADDICTING.
http://pinterest.com/wh0aitsmel/
pot roast!
And I barely had to do a thing! I was at Walmart and saw a "pot roast kit" - came with the meat, seasoning packet and vegetables. It's a pretty good portion, too, at least for hubby & I. It cost roughly around $15. Just followed the instructions, placed the crock pot on high and let it do the work. It's been on high for about 4 hours and the meat is now cooked to medium (using a meat thermometer) so now I put it on low. Hopefully it will continue to tenderize without overcooking it. Hubs will be home in 2-3 hours :)
I have been on such a cooking/baking streak! Monday I made chicken parmesan along with those mint oreo brownies...though I forgot to buy bread crumbs so I had to make do with the stale bread I had on hand lol...yesterday I made cheddar-pepperjack mac n cheese and today is the pot roast!
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Monday, September 5, 2011
Mint oreo brownies!
Don't these look deeelish?
And they were so easy!
Recipe adapted from Making Memories :) I had to make some changes because I lacked some ingredients, but these brownies turned out AMAZING! Perfect for my sweet tooth and hubby loves them.
* 1 box of brownie mix (I used Duncan Hines dark chocolate)
* 1 package of Mint Oreos, divided into 3 piles (I just divided them based on the rows in the package since there are three of them lol)
* 1 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened
* 2 cups of powdered sugar (Omitted because I didn't have this, I just used granulated sugar, and I did not use anywhere near 2 cups. This I just kind of eyeballed)
* 1 8 oz tub of Cool Whip thawed and in the fridge (Forgot to buy this at the store, so I just used the whipped cream I had in the fridge)
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And they were so easy!
Recipe adapted from Making Memories :) I had to make some changes because I lacked some ingredients, but these brownies turned out AMAZING! Perfect for my sweet tooth and hubby loves them.
* 1 box of brownie mix (I used Duncan Hines dark chocolate)
* 1 package of Mint Oreos, divided into 3 piles (I just divided them based on the rows in the package since there are three of them lol)
* 1 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened
* 2 cups of powdered sugar (Omitted because I didn't have this, I just used granulated sugar, and I did not use anywhere near 2 cups. This I just kind of eyeballed)
* 1 8 oz tub of Cool Whip thawed and in the fridge (Forgot to buy this at the store, so I just used the whipped cream I had in the fridge)
Make brownies according to box instructions. Fold-in 1/3 of Oreos. Bake according to instructions. Cool completely.
In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Fold-in Cool Whip (or whipped cream) and 1/3 of Oreos. Spread over brownies.
Top with remaining 1/3 of Oreos. Refridgerate for 20-30 minutes then serve.
The original recipe called for an additional chocolate layer but since I didn't have chocolate chips on hand (and I was too lazy to go back to the store) I omitted that step.
Mine didn't look as "pretty" as Making Memories', but they were still amazingly delicious and rich!
In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Fold-in Cool Whip (or whipped cream) and 1/3 of Oreos. Spread over brownies.
Top with remaining 1/3 of Oreos. Refridgerate for 20-30 minutes then serve.
The original recipe called for an additional chocolate layer but since I didn't have chocolate chips on hand (and I was too lazy to go back to the store) I omitted that step.
Mine didn't look as "pretty" as Making Memories', but they were still amazingly delicious and rich!
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Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Food nom nom.
Oh, and fresh salmon really tastes sooooooo much better than the frozen kind. We usually just cook the frozen stuff but yesterday I decided to buy some fresh fillets. I need to buy more next time though because that wasn't enough for hubby lol.
For dessert I made chocolate cakes in a mug. So easy! Literally just take a mug and add:
1 tbsp self-rising flour (not heaped or leveled)
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp cocoa powder (I used Hershey's Special Dark)
1 tsp instant coffee powder
1 egg
1 tbsp sunflower oil (I just used vegetable oil)
1 tbsp milk
Some chocolate chips (I used dark chocolate chips)
Mix the dry ingredients, then add egg and whisk together with fork. Add oil & milk. Drop in chocolate chips. Microwave on high for 2 1/2 minutes, cooking times vary depending on your microwave. Let it rest for about a minute and serve with either a dusting of powdered sugar, some whipped creme or vanilla ice cream.
I might have overcooked mine just a bit because it mostly tasted like a sponge cake and towards the bottom it was more gooey, but overall it was very delicious! I served mine w/ whipped creme but I suggest vanilla ice cream :)
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Friday, August 26, 2011
Milspouse Friday Fill-in!
It has been awhile since I have done this. Go link up with Wife of a Sailor!
1. The first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning is...Dammit, do I really have to get up? or I really have to pee. But I think I'll just lay here.
2. Lately, I have been craving...A nice big bowl of pho.
3. Whenever anyone says the word Horse, it reminds me of my childhood because...of that basketball game called Horse? lol idk.
4. The happiest word I know is...Love. All you need is love.
5. My spouse may hate it, but I love...Frozen yogurt. He actually doesn't hate it, he secretly loves it. He just refuses to get any with me because to him frozen yogurt isn't "manly" yet he is always trying to steal bites from my bowl :)
1. The first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning is...Dammit, do I really have to get up? or I really have to pee. But I think I'll just lay here.
2. Lately, I have been craving...A nice big bowl of pho.
3. Whenever anyone says the word Horse, it reminds me of my childhood because...of that basketball game called Horse? lol idk.
4. The happiest word I know is...Love. All you need is love.
5. My spouse may hate it, but I love...Frozen yogurt. He actually doesn't hate it, he secretly loves it. He just refuses to get any with me because to him frozen yogurt isn't "manly" yet he is always trying to steal bites from my bowl :)
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Not-so-fun adventures in the ER.
I got sent to the ER today. Myself and two other nurses from my unit...one who went MIA after a few hours. I think she got sent home. I also got sent home, but not until 0500. I'm hoping I don't get called off tonight, otherwise I'm going to volunteer to go to the ER again.
I was very disoriented. I have never been to the ER before and things are a lot different. For awhile I was just sitting around and I didn't know what to do, even after I kept telling the other nurses to tell me to do stuff because I'll do it. Then I got slammed with discharges. I have never discharged patients before (except in nursing school, like once or twice) but I handled them like a pro :)
And I had to deal with pedi patients!!! It wasn't as scary as I remember. One was so cute, and poor thing kept asking if I was going to stick her with a needle and got scared when I put gloves on...needless to say, no ouchies for her :)
Something upset me, though. We had a 27 year old, DOA (dead on arrival), CPR in progress. Already intubated. Once they got the the ER we continued CPR and pushed some drugs. The doc did an ultrasound which showed cardiac standstill. Patient's color looked awful - definitely cyanotic. We couldn't save them. Drug OD was suspected. It's just so sad, because this patient was very young, and a soldier too. I just don't see how anyone can just throw their life away like that. It bothered me, and it still does.
And things will bother you. That's a part of nursing. But you just have to learn to let it go.
I was very disoriented. I have never been to the ER before and things are a lot different. For awhile I was just sitting around and I didn't know what to do, even after I kept telling the other nurses to tell me to do stuff because I'll do it. Then I got slammed with discharges. I have never discharged patients before (except in nursing school, like once or twice) but I handled them like a pro :)
And I had to deal with pedi patients!!! It wasn't as scary as I remember. One was so cute, and poor thing kept asking if I was going to stick her with a needle and got scared when I put gloves on...needless to say, no ouchies for her :)
Something upset me, though. We had a 27 year old, DOA (dead on arrival), CPR in progress. Already intubated. Once they got the the ER we continued CPR and pushed some drugs. The doc did an ultrasound which showed cardiac standstill. Patient's color looked awful - definitely cyanotic. We couldn't save them. Drug OD was suspected. It's just so sad, because this patient was very young, and a soldier too. I just don't see how anyone can just throw their life away like that. It bothered me, and it still does.
And things will bother you. That's a part of nursing. But you just have to learn to let it go.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Roast nom nom.
As long as it comes out good and makes hubby happy, I will be happy :)
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Thursday, August 18, 2011
song link-up!
It has been quite awhile since I have participated in Goodnight Moon's weekly What's Your Song? link-up!
This week is "Sleep On The Dance Floor" by The Postelles. This song makes me feel so light-hearted, I love it! Enjoy :)
I have to work tonight. I'm a little apprehensive after what happened Monday night, which was totally 100% *NOT* my fault. And I'm still pissed at that family. Long story short, one family member yelled at me and said, "I don't care if the patient next door is dying, our loved one could die too!" and um, the patient I was attending to was unstable. Their loved one was fine. It was pretty ridiculous, but I still maintained my composure and basically kissed their asses and did everything I possibly could to make them happy. Ugh.
Tomorrow night, however, is military ball! I am excited :) I'm just going to recycle the dress I wore to the military ball in April at Fort Leonard Wood.
And of course I work Saturday night, too :(
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
For all of my new(er) followers, here is another "get to know me/my hubby" post :) For once I'm not going to blog about work.
Your name: Melissa
Husband's name: Eddie
Your age: 23...I will be 24 in October! I am 6 months older.
Husband's age: 23
Location: Fort Hood, TX!
Branch of military: Army MP.
How many years of marriage/how long have you been together?: We have been together for almost 4 years...married for 3 months!
Anniversary date?: 3 months!
How long has the military been apart of your life?: Not very long. It seems like awhile because Eddie did Army ROTC in college and there were ceremonies and military balls, etc. Not including ROTC (but if you include BOLC), it would be about 9 months.
Photo: Here is a random one from our wedding!
I want some more of that cake haha...for our 1 year anniversary!
How do you feel about the military in general?:
Have you gone through any deployments?: Not yet. I thought he was going to deploy shortly after moving to Texas, but that wasn't the case...*I* lucked out lol! He was actually going to deploy in July, but the Army was trying to decide between him and another LT that happened to be in his BOLC class, so I also know him personally. The other guy wasn't married, and since Eddie is, they decided to send the other guy overseas. I pray for his safety every day. And I feel bad, because 1) I know how badly Eddie wants to deploy and 2) It's practically my fault that he didn't get to deploy this time around, but I'm happy that he will be around for at least a little while. With the military you never know what can happen, though!
A really great memory?: Our wedding!
What are you most addicted to (forums/TV shows/musicals, etc)?: I will admit that I am heavily addicted to Facebook and Twitter and Allnurses.com. Favorite TV shows: Grey's Anatomy, Mercy, House (I love medical dramas!) and recently, Dance Moms hahaha. The new episode is on tonight and I'm very excited! I'm also addicted to Starbucks coffee and get it every night before going to work.
Are you in college/graduated/planning to go?: I graduated in December 2010 and Eddie graduated in May 2010. I thought about going back to school, but eh...I might just stick with my BSN, and add some more credentials to my name like PCCN or CCRN (that stands for "progressive care certified nurse" and "critical care registered nurse" respectively). Because I work in progressive care now, it is my goal to obtain my PCCN. If I transition fully to the ICU, I might go the CCRN route, too.
Any children?: Not yet.
Any pets?: Not yet. I really want a dog but unfortunately our apartment complex doesn't allow them.
If your husband wasn't in the military, what career would be he doing?: Lol he would probably be a professional race car driver, or a professional beer taste tester, if that even exists haha.
Is your spouse a lifer or contract?: Currently on contract...in October he will have 6 years remaining. At this point he is not sure if he wants to remain on contract or make a career out of it.
Favorite thing to do as a couple?: Cook, be lazy and cuddle on the couch and watch movies/Netflix :)
Dream job?: Food critic!
Dream vacation?: I don't know, somewhere exotic and beachy. I would love to go to Fiji, somewhere in The Caribbean Islands or the Bahamas. Eddie wants to go to Tunisia lol.
Do your in-laws drive you insane?: At times they do lol...but I still love them!
What is the worst experience you've had as a couple?: Eddie & I are pretty neutral and overall I think we handle things very well. We handled this move very well, but I would still say it was a tough experience...having to move 1,300+ miles away from all of our family & friends, getting settled, me trying to find work...I wouldn't say that was "the worst" experience we had, it was just very stressful. A lot of changes all at once.
What does your husband do to make you feel loved?: Everything! He always treats me so well and never belittles my feelings. He is caring and understanding and hates seeing me upset. If I am, he'll do whatever he can to fix it and make me happy.
Favorite/least favorite thing about being married?: Favorite: getting to spend practically every day with my husband. Least favorite: making all of those "big" decisions!
What weird/nasty habits does he have that just drive you nuts?: He is VERY messy...and he dips, eww!
Where do you see yourself and your family in 5 years?: Home is where the Army sends us...we probably won't be in Texas anymore, but who knows. I will have my PCCN/CCRN by then. We'll probably have a kiddo on board. Probably have a deployment or two under our belts.
I went to the yoga class on post today and OMG...I felt like I just about died. It was very tough, but I really enjoyed it. Very good workout! For those in the Fort Hood area, this class is offered Mondays & Wednesdays from 1145-1245 and 1730-1830 at Applied Fitness Center (33rd & Old Ironsides). There is also a beginner yoga class offered on Thursdays from 1000-1100 at Abrams Fitness Center (62nd Ave & Support Ave). Easiest way to get to both is by the main gate (TJ Mills Blvd)!
Your name: Melissa
Husband's name: Eddie
Your age: 23...I will be 24 in October! I am 6 months older.
Husband's age: 23
Location: Fort Hood, TX!
Branch of military: Army MP.
How many years of marriage/how long have you been together?: We have been together for almost 4 years...married for 3 months!
Anniversary date?: 3 months!
How long has the military been apart of your life?: Not very long. It seems like awhile because Eddie did Army ROTC in college and there were ceremonies and military balls, etc. Not including ROTC (but if you include BOLC), it would be about 9 months.
Photo: Here is a random one from our wedding!
I want some more of that cake haha...for our 1 year anniversary!
How do you feel about the military in general?:
Have you gone through any deployments?: Not yet. I thought he was going to deploy shortly after moving to Texas, but that wasn't the case...*I* lucked out lol! He was actually going to deploy in July, but the Army was trying to decide between him and another LT that happened to be in his BOLC class, so I also know him personally. The other guy wasn't married, and since Eddie is, they decided to send the other guy overseas. I pray for his safety every day. And I feel bad, because 1) I know how badly Eddie wants to deploy and 2) It's practically my fault that he didn't get to deploy this time around, but I'm happy that he will be around for at least a little while. With the military you never know what can happen, though!
A really great memory?: Our wedding!
What are you most addicted to (forums/TV shows/musicals, etc)?: I will admit that I am heavily addicted to Facebook and Twitter and Allnurses.com. Favorite TV shows: Grey's Anatomy, Mercy, House (I love medical dramas!) and recently, Dance Moms hahaha. The new episode is on tonight and I'm very excited! I'm also addicted to Starbucks coffee and get it every night before going to work.
Are you in college/graduated/planning to go?: I graduated in December 2010 and Eddie graduated in May 2010. I thought about going back to school, but eh...I might just stick with my BSN, and add some more credentials to my name like PCCN or CCRN (that stands for "progressive care certified nurse" and "critical care registered nurse" respectively). Because I work in progressive care now, it is my goal to obtain my PCCN. If I transition fully to the ICU, I might go the CCRN route, too.
Any children?: Not yet.
Any pets?: Not yet. I really want a dog but unfortunately our apartment complex doesn't allow them.
If your husband wasn't in the military, what career would be he doing?: Lol he would probably be a professional race car driver, or a professional beer taste tester, if that even exists haha.
Is your spouse a lifer or contract?: Currently on contract...in October he will have 6 years remaining. At this point he is not sure if he wants to remain on contract or make a career out of it.
Favorite thing to do as a couple?: Cook, be lazy and cuddle on the couch and watch movies/Netflix :)
Dream job?: Food critic!
Dream vacation?: I don't know, somewhere exotic and beachy. I would love to go to Fiji, somewhere in The Caribbean Islands or the Bahamas. Eddie wants to go to Tunisia lol.
Do your in-laws drive you insane?: At times they do lol...but I still love them!
What is the worst experience you've had as a couple?: Eddie & I are pretty neutral and overall I think we handle things very well. We handled this move very well, but I would still say it was a tough experience...having to move 1,300+ miles away from all of our family & friends, getting settled, me trying to find work...I wouldn't say that was "the worst" experience we had, it was just very stressful. A lot of changes all at once.
What does your husband do to make you feel loved?: Everything! He always treats me so well and never belittles my feelings. He is caring and understanding and hates seeing me upset. If I am, he'll do whatever he can to fix it and make me happy.
Favorite/least favorite thing about being married?: Favorite: getting to spend practically every day with my husband. Least favorite: making all of those "big" decisions!
What weird/nasty habits does he have that just drive you nuts?: He is VERY messy...and he dips, eww!
Where do you see yourself and your family in 5 years?: Home is where the Army sends us...we probably won't be in Texas anymore, but who knows. I will have my PCCN/CCRN by then. We'll probably have a kiddo on board. Probably have a deployment or two under our belts.
I went to the yoga class on post today and OMG...I felt like I just about died. It was very tough, but I really enjoyed it. Very good workout! For those in the Fort Hood area, this class is offered Mondays & Wednesdays from 1145-1245 and 1730-1830 at Applied Fitness Center (33rd & Old Ironsides). There is also a beginner yoga class offered on Thursdays from 1000-1100 at Abrams Fitness Center (62nd Ave & Support Ave). Easiest way to get to both is by the main gate (TJ Mills Blvd)!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
You know you've worked too many shifts in a row when...
1. It is now 5pm and your spouse is checking on you to make sure you are still alive.
2. You decide to sleep in the waiting room or the parking lot because you're unsafe to drive.
3. When you start thinking that the hospital food is actually pretty good, all things considered.
4. When you dream about work all day...WTH, I thought I left!
5. When you hardly remember the drive home.
6. When you start answering your phone as "[your unit], this is [your name], how may I help you?"
7. You fall asleep at a red light.
8. When you clock out and then get half way down the hall and you ask yourself, "did I clock out?" Then you turn around to go clock out, get half way back down the hall and you realize...you did clock out!
9. You get out to your car and realize you left your keys in your locker on the unit...
10. Absolutely NOTHING around you can beep/alarm in any way. It's like a nursing form of PTSD or something.
11. You end conversations with people by asking, "Is there anything else I can do for you?"
I have literally been a zombie this past week.
Went to work, had a decent shift...came home and couldn't sleep for the life of me. I finally did sleep, but only for about 3 hours...woke up by 1130 and just lazed around until 1900.
Had another decent shift. Came home, showered...the moment I rested my head on my pillow I passed out! Woke up at 1630 and then got a call from the nursing supervisor telling me she was going to put me on call that night!
I don't like being on call. You miss out on hours unless you actually get called into work. I thought I would get called in, but I never heard anything. Either that one particular physician was working that night (and he never admits anyone unless they're literally dying lol) or my floor just wasn't getting enough admissions for them to need me. Oh well.
Back to work tomorrow night.
I feel like this is all I do. Sleep, eat, work, rinse & repeat. The morning of (when I have already worked my 3 in a row) I sleep and then when I wake up I don't want to do a damn thing for the rest of the day because I am so tired.
And it really sucks being on opposite schedules with my husband. He's up doing PT and doing Army stuff while I'm sleeping. When I wake up he comes home and shortly after he'll take a nap -_- then it's off to work for me...And it's always the same. It really sucks.
2. You decide to sleep in the waiting room or the parking lot because you're unsafe to drive.
3. When you start thinking that the hospital food is actually pretty good, all things considered.
4. When you dream about work all day...WTH, I thought I left!
5. When you hardly remember the drive home.
6. When you start answering your phone as "[your unit], this is [your name], how may I help you?"
7. You fall asleep at a red light.
8. When you clock out and then get half way down the hall and you ask yourself, "did I clock out?" Then you turn around to go clock out, get half way back down the hall and you realize...you did clock out!
9. You get out to your car and realize you left your keys in your locker on the unit...
10. Absolutely NOTHING around you can beep/alarm in any way. It's like a nursing form of PTSD or something.
11. You end conversations with people by asking, "Is there anything else I can do for you?"
I have literally been a zombie this past week.
Went to work, had a decent shift...came home and couldn't sleep for the life of me. I finally did sleep, but only for about 3 hours...woke up by 1130 and just lazed around until 1900.
Had another decent shift. Came home, showered...the moment I rested my head on my pillow I passed out! Woke up at 1630 and then got a call from the nursing supervisor telling me she was going to put me on call that night!
I don't like being on call. You miss out on hours unless you actually get called into work. I thought I would get called in, but I never heard anything. Either that one particular physician was working that night (and he never admits anyone unless they're literally dying lol) or my floor just wasn't getting enough admissions for them to need me. Oh well.
Back to work tomorrow night.
I feel like this is all I do. Sleep, eat, work, rinse & repeat. The morning of (when I have already worked my 3 in a row) I sleep and then when I wake up I don't want to do a damn thing for the rest of the day because I am so tired.
And it really sucks being on opposite schedules with my husband. He's up doing PT and doing Army stuff while I'm sleeping. When I wake up he comes home and shortly after he'll take a nap -_- then it's off to work for me...And it's always the same. It really sucks.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
quick update.
Once again, sorry for the lack of updates.
Not that anyone really reads this blog anyway, at least it feels that way... :/
I just feel like I have nothing worth blogging about, because all I literally do is work, work, work and on my days off I enjoy being lazy with my husband :)
Work is still great. I had my performance evaluation yesterday. *toots horn* There is always room for improvement but my manager praised me for doing such a fabulous job. She told me she wants to hire more people like me! Yay :) I will be in the ICU this week and then starting next week I'm flying solo. Yikes!
And I'm getting my windows tinted today, finally!
And Texas is ridiculous hot. No more heat advisories, now we have heat warnings!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
yummy meatballs!
I've had a nice, relaxing few days off :)
I'm off tomorrow, too!
Then I have to work Thursday, Friday & Saturday night :(
Monday I made spaghetti & meatballs. The spaghetti part was nothing fancy, but I actually made the meatballs from scratch this time. They turned out really well and flavorful, and hubby LOVED them. He said they were the best meatballs he has ever had :D
They reminded me a lot of my mom's meatballs, and her meatballs are the bomb dot com. Mine could have been a bit more moist, but that is probably because I used 96% lean (or whatever) beef. I need to use fattier meat next time.
Here's the recipe:
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 egg
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs It did not specify fresh, but I used fresh anyway...a couple of slices of whole wheat bread with the crusts cut off and toasted just a bit so that I could actually make them into breadcrumbs lol
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1 tsp oregano
* 1 tbsp fresh parsley I forgot to buy parsley, so I omitted this
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper
* 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Basically you mix everything together...I did it by hand, and tbh it was kind of gross messing with all of that meat haha...take pieces and roll into balls, and drop them right in the sauce. I kept it on medium-low for awhile then let it simmer, stirring occasionally. Recipe says to simmer for about 3 hours; I think mine cooked for about 2 1/2. They were fully cooked and delicious.
Today I was able to switch my birth control back to what I was taking before! Finally!
I have been on Microgestin 1/20 for about 6 months and have noticed a gradual decrease in libido :/
This month it has pretty much been nonexistent :( I never had that problem while on Sronyx!
Not to mention Microgestin also randomly made me skip my period one month, which freaked me out.
Tomorrow I'm going to make orzo pasta with shrimp, garlic, basil & grape tomatoes simmered in a white wine sauce.
Hope it comes out okay.
Unlike my father, who was an executive chef, I was not blessed with culinary talent haha.
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