I Quit My Job

 

Last month, I took a deep breath, walked in to my boss's office, and quit my job, and today is my last day. It was the single most nerve-wracking thing I have ever done in my life. Not just the moment where I turned in to my notice, but the days and weeks leading up to that moment...the thinking, the praying, the guilt. These things made it the hardest decision of my life. 

For a little bit of background information, I'm a registered nurse, and I work as a unit manager at a long term care facility (nursing home). This nursing home is where I started my very first job as an LPN, and after I graduated the second time, I was promoted to being a manager. I love my job. I love the people, the atmosphere, but mostly I love the residents who lived at the facility. They were (and still are) so special to me. 

Maybe you're thinking, Kalyn if you love your job so much, why did you quit? There were, at the time, what seemed like a lot of factors. Looking back, they seem like little things, but at the time they were big things. I was overwhelmed. Overwhelmed not only with my job responsibilities, but with my life. I needed a change: a change of scenery, a change of pace. 

As I mentioned, it was a tough decision. There was a lot of talk with my husband, my family, and much more praying for guidance. I wanted to know that I was making the right choice. You know the analogy people always give with the oxygen masks in the airplane? This was that kind of situation. I couldn't take care of other people without first taking care of myself. 

There are some people that don't "get it" when I explain that I'm making a personal decision to step back, or take a "demotion", in my new job title, and that's okay. Not everyone understands needing a little bit of self-love. Not everyone understands that life can sometimes take harder tolls on me while it doesn't affect you at all. 

This last day of work is so bittersweet. I have heard the kindest words over the last few weeks and those words really make me feel good. I've been encouraged and reminded why I first chose to become a nurse. I'm excited to be taking the next step in my nursing career, and I'm excited for the new opportunities I'll be provided. Amidst all the excitement though is just a little bit of sadness at leaving my first "real" job and workplace. I ask that you keep me in your prayers as I begin this completely new journey. 

Cheers to new beginnings!

 

Let's Grab Coffee

I don't know about you but when Monday rolls around, I always feel like I need an extra cup of joe, what about you?

mug found here

If we were out to coffee, I would order an extra large, extra tall, extra whatever (as long as its big) coffee with cream and sugar. If we were at Starbucks I'd ask for two pumps of vanilla, because I like to keep it simple and I like what I like. Maybe you'd try to convince me to try a new chai latte but I'll say "maybe next time" because today I need something warm and familiar.
If we were out to coffee, I'd give you updates on our house renovations. I'd say we're at a standstill on our kitchen, playing the waiting game with our granite company to come and install counters. I'd say that it's a constant discussion surrounding our bathroom and (the possibility of) knocking down walls and expanding or leaving her the same size. I'd say that we're usually both too exhausted to come home after work and do more work, so our weekends are usually booked up with home things.
If we were out to coffee, I'm sure you'd ask about my mom, and I would appreciate it. I'd tell you that not many people ask because it's a scary subject and I'd tell you that this whole ordeal has brought us all closer - as a family - to each other and to God. I'd tell you that dealing with terminal illness is scary as hell and some nights all I can do is cry, but that most days are just like any other: we wake up, we laugh, we talk, we make memories, and then we do it all again. One day at a time, that's our new motto.
If we were out to coffee, we would laugh and catch up and I'd tell you all the things that are exciting me right now. Our upcoming trip to Orlando with my high school best friend. My nursing school best friend getting ready for a new baby boy. Finally getting counters so I can have somewhere to put my microwave.
If we were out to coffee, I'd ask about marriage. What are your views on modern vs. traditional marriage roles? Do you and your husband/boyfriend/significant other come from the same background or differ in your opinions? I've been reading a lot lately about roles in marriage and having a marriage centered in Christ. The Bible calls for women to "submit unto" their husbands and for husbands to love their wives "as Christ loves the Church." What do these things mean to you? (follow up post coming soon!)
If we were out to coffee, we would talk blogging. What do you do to keep yourself on a schedule, so your posts are consistent? Where do you blog topics and ideas come from - do you keep a journal? An editorial calendar? Ideas in the "notes" section on your phone? I feel like I'm finally getting into the swing of things around here but I'm still not making any promises as to how long I can keep it up, but I'm definitely trying.
If we were out to coffee, we'd look at our watches and laugh about how time flies when you're having fun. We'd give each other a big hug and say that we can't wait until next time and go our separate ways with warmth in our bellies and a full heart.

If we were on our first date

Just like most other humans, I love me some buzzfeed. I don't always agree with or enjoy the articles they post, but I love it nonetheless. I'll never get over taking the "Which ______ Character are You" quizzesa (I am Hermione and Leslie Knope) or "30 GIFS that perfectly describe _____" articles. They make me laugh and laughing makes me happy. Recently Buzzfeed published an article titled 36 Questions You Should Really Be Asking On A First Date, all from the Twitter account @firstdateqs.

Since I'll never again go on a true first date, I I chose 10 of these (ridiculously hilarious) questions to actually answer some so you readers can get to know me a little better.

1. Do you starte eating a muffin BEFORE you unwrap the little muffin sleeve or after you unwrap the little muffin sleeve? 
Well, that honestly depends on how appeasing the muffin looks, if I just can't contain myself and wait to get the wrapper off. But generally, I unwrap the sides and leave the muffin actually sitting on it so I'm not holding the muffin with my bare hands.

2. If aliens are real, how disgusted do you think they are with you?
This reminds me of a Simpsons episode where the Simpsons are abducted by aliens to be eaten, which is complete normal alien behavior - first though, the Simpsons were put on display to show how strange they were. That just goes to show that we can't really say what aliens think - they may be disgusted with the fact that humans drink water or that they eat corn on the cob or flush their poop down the toilet.

3. Do you think lizards can fall in love? 
Yes, absolutely.

4. Do you think Shrek and Fiona should have gotten a divorce? 
Wait... I don't remember the last two (or three? How many movies are there?) Shrek movies. Just the first one when he rescues Fiona, then the second one where there is Puss in Boots. Did Shrek cheat on her with the Dragon? Did Donkey come between them? Wasn't there a gingerbread man somewhere in there?

5. If you had a dragon, who would you have burnt in to an unrecognizable crisp first? 
Oh that's tough. I wish I had longer to think about this question, but for now I'll say whoever is responsible for choosing the price of airline tickets. That ish is wack!

6. How many times a day do you look around you and think "I wish I was butt ass naked right now"?
Too many, yet, not enough.

 7. How quickly into building a piece of IKEA furniture do you throw yourself out the window? 
I've never been to IKEA.

8. How many times have you brought an entire bottle of wine into the shower? 
None, but thankfully, my bathroom counter is easily accessible from the shower and I put drinks on it all the time to consume while showering. Do you know how refreshing a cold beer or bloody mary is while in a hot shower? Do you?!

9. Do you put the toilet paper roll on the right way or the murderer way? 
The right way of course.

10. Do you think cats like guacamole? 
If they don't then I've got two cats for sale.

What are some of the strangest questions you've encountered on  a first date?

Imagine an interesting and catching title

In my attempt to "get back in to blogging" I'm here today to bring you one of my favorite (and easiest) kinds of posts there ever was. The "currently" post. 

Making: Nothing at the moment. However, I did find some really cool things at an antique show that I'm working on re-finishing and I also found a little treasure this past weekend at a run down house on a friend of ours land. I'm not telling you what it is because I want to wait until I've finished working on it. But it's really cool.

Cooking: Nothing right now, but last night I made some roasted veggies that were absolutely amazing. Not to toot my own horn. Okay, I'm totally tooting my own horn. I've said "toot" too much already. 

Drinking: Naked green machine. 

Reading: I just (well like a week ago) finished The Giver. Now I'm making my way through The Tales of Beedle the Bard and Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn. I'm only a few chapters in to Sharp Objects but it seems good so far. Don't ask me why it has taken me so long to start The Tales of Beedle the Bard. 

Wanting: I want a lot of things. I want this globe decanter because I think it's really cool. I also want some wooden embroidery hoops because when I went to the store yesterday they only had ugly neon plastic ones and if I want to leave it in the hoop, I need a pretty wooden one!

Looking: for houses. For cool ways to decorate for spring.

Wasting: Nothing?

Wishing: I wish it was summer time already. I can't wait for warmer days when it isn't dark before 6pm. 

Enjoying: Time spent with my husband. We've settled into a fun little routine of coming home, cooking dinner, then watching a couple of episodes of netflix in bed before lights out. It's relaxing and I'd probably do it every night for the rest of my life if I didn't care about my social life. 

Waiting: for my wedding photo album to arrive!

Liking: the warmer weather lately, but I know better than to get my hopes up for it to last. 

Wondering: How I'm going to hold my girls up in my dress for the Mardi Gras ball I'm attending in a few weeks. It's one shouldered and backless and the material is very.....showy. I've never used those jelly cups before, if anyone has, do they work well??

Loving: Life.

Hoping: Someone brings me breakfast. Highly unlikely but I can dream. 

Needing: Some coffee. 

Smelling: Nothing out of the ordinary.

Wearing: White scrub top/bottom. White lab coat. Not my glasses because I accidentally left them at home today. Whoops. 

Knowing: That it's going to be SO MUCH fun to go get my passport changed to my new name. Can you hear the sarcasm?

Feeling: Fine, thanks for asking. 

Opening: Instagram on my phone because Hi, my name is Kalyn and I'm slightly addicted to social media.

Boom. Done. Over and out. Happy hump day. 

Lately...

Whoa, hello again after (yet another) blogging hiatus. As it turns out, moving house (especially to one without internet) can kind of ruin the mean blogging streak you had going for you. But hey, you win some, you lose some. And by "win some" I mean we are no longer living in a 500 square foot apartment and instead are camping out in a 3 bedroom/2 bathroom HOUSE!! So, I figured I'd do a little hodge-podge catch-up sort of post for you guys (and for my mom, who reminds me I have a blog frequently.)

 

Lately... I've been trying not to spend all my money at places like Hobby Lobby, Target, Walmart, the Dollar Store, etc. Basically any place with any type of "Christmas décor" items. Or just "décor" items in general. Apparently moving in to a house three times the size of your apartment will make you realize how much you actually don't have. Like (nice) bathroom rugs. Or a spare shower curtain. Or pillows for a guest bed. You get my point. I've been buying all the things.

 

Lately... I've been having a blast decorating for Christmas. Yes, I've had a tree before, but that was it. Never had lights or any other sort of decorations. I wouldn't say I went "all out" for Christmas, but my husband would probably disagree.

 

Currently my favorite place in my house. After my bed.

 

Lately... I've been thinking I was a little crazy to plan a housewarming/Christmas party two weeks after moving. The house we're renting is a really old house, and we had to do a lot right off the bat to make it livable - a lot of deep cleaning and the like. I was worried we weren't going to get it all accomplished in time, but somehow we managed to get everything looking decent, and cook part of a meal for our very first Christmas party.

 

I have such beautiful friends!

 

We were too busy stuffing our faces and cracking up over playing Dirty Santa to take too many pictures, but I'm not going to complain about it.

 

Lately... work has been insane!! Last week we had our annual state inspection (survey). If you work in healthcare you probably know what a circus my life was, if you don't - just take my word for it - it was complete and utter chaos for the better part of three days. I worked long shifts, anywhere from 12 to 14 hours, and was on my feet for most of it, running around like a chicken with my head cut off. In the end though, we "aced" survey and showed them what a five star facility really looks like! I could not be prouder to work for such an amazing facility and company.

Lately... married life is starting to grow on me. Not that I wasn't enjoying it more, but it's just starting to "sink in" a little more now. Not that we haven't already had our fair share of disagreements (you try moving an entire household with only one other person and see if you get along afterward). The fact that I get to wake up beside this guy every day for the rest of forever is starting to wrap itself around my little brain and every time I sit down and really think about it, I can't help but get flutters in my tummy.

Lately... I have been LOVING cruising around in my brand new ride. This is actually my fourth car - my first being a '97 Chevy Blazer that I bought an paid for, in full, all by myself at the age of 16 - but this is my first brand new one.

She's a 2014 Hyundai (try spelling that without looking it up) Santa Fe Sport Edition. "Sport Edition" just means I got it without the third row option - it's a little smaller and (duh) sportier.

So tell me, what have you been up to lately? 

 

If we were out for coffee...

My most favorite owl mug.

If we were out for coffee, we'd go to Starbucks, because honestly I don't think there's any other coffee shops near me. I'd be too indecisive when ordering and finally just get a caramel macchiato because I know I'll like it. If I've been good, I may even get a croissant or a pretzel.

If we were out for coffee, I'd say (probably more than once) how excited I am to finally be moving out of our apartment and into a house. Even though it's up in the air of how long we'll actually be staying there - it could be one month, it could be one year - it is infinitely better than having to share such a tiny space that I'm in now.

If we were out for coffee, I'd ask if you had any Christmas decorating tips. Where to get the best bang for my buck, where to find the prettiest stockings, and which candles are the best to burn. Being that I've only ever been in an apartment, my Christmas decor is limited to ornaments for the tree and a few twinkle lights.

If we were out for coffee, I'd admit to being slightly unhappy with my work. Not my job, but my work. I'd say that I didn't feel like I was giving it my all, because giving it my all is so hard. I can say that I do try, but some days trying isn't enough and I go home exhausted and unhappy with myself.

If we were out for coffee, I'd say that I'm not in to pumpkin spice, like I feel like everyone else is.

If we were out for coffee, I'd say that after a month of marriage, we are still learning. There are disagreements, big and small. From who does the dishes to how many bank accounts we'll have. Day by day, it gets a little easier, but it's still hard. I can say that we've learned to love each other better, more efficiently after discovering our opposing personalities and love languages (and that you should do that too, if you haven't already).

If we were out for coffee, I'd tell you that I'm finally at a happy place with my blog. I feel like I'm not doing too much (to the point of exhaustion) or too little (to the point of wondering if it is even enough) but that it's juuussst right! After quite the hiatus, I'm opening up my sponsorship options again - new and revamped - and I'm excited about it. I feel like I'm turning over a new (slower paced, more honest, less content) leaf and right now, that's all I need.

If we were out for coffee, I'd ask you what is new in your life? What are you most excited about, what scares you, and what are your goals for the next month? I'd try to get to know you a little better so that our relationship could be like my favorie sweater - warm and cozy and ready at a moments notice, fore any occasion.

Goals and other things

Today I'm taking the easy way out and writing lists. I love lists because you can talk about so many different things but it doesn't get too wordy or scatterbrained. Especially when the lists are categorized. Enjoy!

Five goals I have for the month: 

1. Come up with an eating plan and stick to it. 

2. Pack up our apartment and MOVE INTO OUR HOUSE (read more about it here) 

3. Start on our wedding photo book. I got a great Groupon for a hardcover photo book and I can't wait to put all of our wedding photos in it. 

4. Drink two liters of water a day. I know this isn't really a "monthly" so much as a "daily" goal, but it's still a goal. 

5. Read two books. I've downloaded Me Before You by Jojo Moyes (at the recommendation of Amber) but I haven't gotten the chance to start it yet. I'm looking forward to it, because I've heard great things. Any thoughts on what my second book for the month should be? 

 Four of my favorite movies of all time: 

Any HP movie - any LOTR movie - The Little Mermaid - Fried Green Tomatoes

Three new things I tried last month: 

1. I started getting Skimm'd. If you don't know what I'm talking about then you should try it here. Basically its a short and sweet version of the news that's sent to your email every morning. If you're like me, and don't have time to read/watch the news in the morning but still want to be up to date on all the big happenings - The Skimm is what you need. 

2. Sumo squats at the gym. All I'm going to say about that is: ouch. 

3. Getting up earlier. Derek has to be at work an hour before I do, so naturally he wakes up earlier than me to go to the gym. I started getting up and going at the same time as him because (1) we can carpool and (2) it's going to wake me up when he gets up anyway, so why not? It gives me a little more time to get things accomplished - like washing dishes or folding a load of laundry. I know it sounds crazy but I am much more productive in the mornings! When I come home from work all I want to do is put on my comfy clothes and lay around. 

Two things that really aggravate me:

1. When people don't pay attention to me when I'm talking 

2. Slow internet 

One picture taken this week:

I have no idea what is going on but this makes me laugh probably more than I should. 

It's been two weeks....

Two whole weeks since I've even thought about writing a blog post. No. I take that back. I've thought about it frequently, I just haven't found the words or the time to come to this space. I miss it. I've tried my best to continue reading my favorite blogs, and that alone takes up enough time in itself. So, to ease myself back in to this little blogging world, a "currently" post of sorts (inspiration found here).

Making: I've been working on wedding décor. Wood signs, centerpieces, cake stands, and practicing my flower hair piece, etc.

Cooking: Nothing at the moment.

Drinking: Orange juice. I've been on a big orange juice binge lately, and it's weird because I used to not like it at all.

Reading: What I'm writing.

Wanting: It to be 2:30 so I can be off work!

Looking: At my computer screen. And at pictures from the triathlon I did this weekend. (SOOOO much fun!)

Wasting: Nothing?

Wishing: I had a billion dollars. And sometimes I wish I had a fairy godmother to come plan this wedding for me, but most of the time I have fun doing it.

Enjoying: The book I'm reading. Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks. Pretty good so far, but I just started it last night.

Waiting: Patiently waiting for my wedding day to get here. I can't wait to be married (36 days)!

Liking: The fact that we have "casual/game day Friday." I know most people consider people in my profession "lucky" because we get to wear scrubs (aka the most comfortable uniform ever) to work every day. But sometimes I want to wear real clothes dang it! Thankfully on Fridays I get to do that. Unless you count last week where I wore my game day clothes on Thursday because I woke up honestly thinking it was Friday.

Wondering: many things.

Loving: Life.

Hoping: That I can get through this work day without a major crisis.

Marveling: at the sunrise, which I'm currently looking at right now.

Needing: Some coffee. I quit coffee about 3 weeks ago, but sometimes the craving hits hard. Like on mornings when I have to be at work at 6 a.m. and can't go to the gym before.

Smelling: My soap.

Wearing: Auburn jersey. Khaki slacks. Old Navy sandals.

Knowing: That today is FRIDAY and I'm going to have an awesome weekend.

Feeling: A little tired.

Bookmarking: potential bridesmaid dresses for my ladies.

Opening: Chick-fil-a chicken minis. I know, super healthy.

Giggling: Over my face in a few of the triathlon pictures. It seriously looks like I'm in so much pain but I was really having a great time. Promise.

Happy Friday everyone - I hope to be back some next week!

Brain funk Friday

The only thing worse than being in a brain funk is being in a brain funk on a Friday, when work is already hard to get done due to the weekend looming ahead. Yesterday some crazy news was sprung on me and I still haven't quite gotten over the shock of it (sorry for being vague, I know it's annoying) but since my brain isn't quite functioning properly, I borrowed this little post idea from Kayla.

What/when was the last...

...recipe I made? I guess if we are talking about legitimate recipes, then it would be this one a few days ago. But last night I made chicken & broccoli carbonara but I didn't really use a recipe.

...good decision I made? If we are  talking big decisions, then I guess accepting my current new job. But it was also a good decision when I decided to get a pedicure on a whim yesterday after work. Where upon I got the best damn foot/calf massage I've ever gotten.

...cool place I went to? I haven't been anywhere super exciting recently, since most of our weekends are spent on the river/lake. Maybe our vacation to central Florida? Harry Potter World was amazing as well.

...show I watched? Well since I don't have a TV at my apartment, I usually just watch a lot of movies. When I go to Derek's we watch Family Guy and American Dad so I'm sure it was one of those.

...awesome thing that happened? Since I already mentioned my pedicure and my new job, I guess I will go with the fact that I ran 3 miles in 33 minutes today. I know that's as slow as a turtle running in molasses but I'm pretty dang proud.

...thing I bought for myself? Lunch from Jim 'n Nick's yesterday (with a large lemonade) and it was DIVINE.

...good photo of me and Derek?  Well since that boy never wants to take pictures with me, I guess the last good ones were taken on vacation. But I snapped one of us riding fourwheelers last weekend. Half of his face is cut off and we are sweaty and dirty, but we were having a blast.

...bad decision I made? Skipping the gym one day this week. 

...time I was really excited? NOW!!

...time I had a free weekend? With my new job, I technically have free weekends every weekend! We are always filling them with water activities, so I know I'm going to be really really sad when it gets too cold. But then I guess we'll just start mountain biking again. Always going going...

Happy Friday!!

Finish the sentence...

Here's to hair done, makeup on, and not having to scrub bed frames at work.

So. Here I am. After another week failing at life blogging, I am going to really try FOR REAL to get my shit together. This includes (but is not limited to) putting away my laundry instead of letting everything pile up on the couch, bed, dresser, etc., making myself dinner instead of eating homemade peach ice cream every night, wearing real clothes more than once in the week, and blogging like, at least three days.

I kind of think I'm setting myself up for failure here.

Thankfully, Juliette is part of this awesome thing called Blog Every Day in July  and she (and Allie and Faith) have prompts for every single day, including weekends but I'm not about that game. Today's prompt is "finish the sentence" which is super fun and super easy since you don't really need a lot of brain power. Which is actually perfect for a Monday.

When I open the fridge, I always hope I find... that the power hasn't gone out because that would be terrible. And also that there are good munchies like strawberries or cheese.

My favorite article of clothing is... maxi skirts. Whoever invented maxi skirts deserves to win the Nobel Prize or something.

Last week I was really pissed when... I came to work to clean only to find out over half my cleaning team didn't show up. Just me and one other person trying to do the same as five people.

One thing nobody understands about me is... I'm not really sure. I'm sure there are many answers to this question because I am a pretty strange person. Also, Derek tells me all the time that he doesn't understand or "get" me at all, and he tells me I can be a little crazy. Which is probably all true.

One thing I don't understand is... Chemistry. Worst grade in college ever.

The world would be a better place if... everyone treated each other with kindness and equality.

If I had a million dollars I'd... buy a nice house. Buy a nice car. Buy a lake house. A million dollars probably wouldn't cover that so maybe I'd just buy a regular house and a regular car and then hopefully a lake house. Or a beach house.

If I could change one thing about myself, it would be... the fact that I overreact about everything and I let little things get to me and let them affect my whole day.

Something that can always make me happy is... looking at puppy/kitten pictures/videos on the internet.

Something I'll never blog about is... my salary, bedroom things.

If I could go anywhere I would go (because)... I would love to go to Europe. I know that's a really broad answer, but there are so many places I want to visit. I've always been the type of person to want to go everywhere and see everything, but had the little "practical" voice inside my head telling me to save my money instead.

If I were an animal, I would be a... I would be my/my mom's dog. She is so spoiled and gets everything she ever wants.

A job I've always wanted... is one where I am truly happy with what I am doing. Where I don't wake up every morning dreading coming to work. One where I can help people and teach people.

My idea of a perfect day is... one where I can come home and take off my pants and watch a movie and maybe indulge in some ice cream.

I'm pretty proud because I think I was able to finish all the sentences! Here's to (hopefully) a more productive week than last.

Better Late than Never

Well well well, looky who's coming to play in blog land today. I have kinda gotten myself in the habit of skipping my Monday blogging and I had every intention of blogging last night but American Horror Story (my newest Netflix addiction) kind of got in the way along with some blog designing. I just finished two awesome (if I must say so) designs for some lovely ladies and you can check those out here and here.

Other than that, I spent this weekend working and doing school work. Basically my life is revolving around those two things and going to the gym, training for the sprint tri I'm doing in may. I am trying to run 30 minutes two to three times a week, and for now I'm using the treadmil at the gym.

I have literally been dripping sweat every day that I run.

I hate it. Not so much the running part, but the treadmil part. Stationary running is for the birds. I see some people on instagram that run 5+ miles on a treadmil. FIVE MILES. Do you know how long that would take? Well over my alloted thirty minutes, that's for sure. I just don't understand how you can run in one place for so long and not just keel over dead from boredom.

I haven't started training on my bike yet, it is just too darn cold for any of that. Plus the sun doesn't come up early enough this time of year and I'm just not a fan of bike riding in the dark.

Speaking of bikes, Derek and I have been trying to mountain bike every weekend (not this weekend because I worked) and I am loving it more and more. I haven't fallen too much, although on our last trip I did take a pretty hard tumble (thankfully no broken arms though).

In the middle of our most recent 9 miler at Swayback (our current favorite trail). I can't wait until it warms up so I don't have to ride in so many layers!




The actual Swayback Bridge. It's hard to tell in this picture, but when you look at the bridge from the lake, it sags a little in the middle - hence the name "Swayback."

 
We've been averaging 8-10 miles per trip but Derek would like for us to be able to do 11 or 12 and eventually 20 (eeep!). All in all, I think it has become one of my favorite things for us to do as a couple. Even though Derek is much faster than me (I still brake on essentially all the down-hills) and I get tired quicker than he does, I'm glad we've found something we like to do together. Besides Netflix binge.

So basically I've wasted your last 5 to 10 minutes because I'm coming to realize I don't have too much to say but I missed this place so I just wanted to say hi. Hhhhiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!!

   

Some things sound really good in my head

There are a few things that sound really fun and exciting and things that I wish I could do but it's doubtful that I ever will. You know what kinds of things I'm talking about right? Things that sound really good in theory and in your head, but you just know you won't be able to do it for certain reasons.

Going "Paleo"

It is a diet that "mimicks our caveman ancestors" (according to paleodiet.com). The paleo diet or "lifestyle" is one that consists of eating only things that you can kill or harvest.These things include: fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, and meat (chicken, beef, venison, etc.). You don't eat anything that can't be harvested, or anything that is processed. This includes: dairy, rice, pasta, and yogurt. The concept is that the foods you eat are natural and not filled with preservatives, fats, and other components that negatively impact our health.

While all of this is well and good, and it REALLY sounds like a good idea, there is one thing holding me back, and one thing only. Cheese. It's as simple as that. Sure, I would miss pasta and frozen dinners, but I would eventually get over it. Cheese is something you don't just "get over." I  have, however, been a lot more conscious of the foods I choose when I'm at the store, opting for more veggies and less starchy sides. I try to make our meals 1 part meat 1 part carb and 1 part veggie with a salad and a little dairy (cheese).

No 'poo

I have read so so so many articles about not 'pooing. No I'm not talking about bowel movments (although I wouldn't put it past me) I'm talking about not shampooing your hair. There is tons of research out there on the interwebs, and plenty of testimonials about the benefits of not putting shampoo in your hair. Thicker hair, hair that grows faster, healthier ends, less oil, etc.

Do I want all of that? YES. I would love to have thicker, shinier, healthier hair. I hate that I use shampoo every day that strips my hair of it's natural oils, so that it thinks it needs to over-produce and by the end of the day I'm looking like a grease monkey. The main thing stopping me here is that I've read the transition period is terrible. Your hair becomes disgustingly oily and dirty because it's used to over-compensating from shampooing every day. I just don't think I could do it, with that, plus going to the gym five days a week? I think I'd want to shave my head.

Ironman Triathlon

You've all heard of the Iron Man race, no? Well if you haven't it's a 140 mile triathlon, split into: 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and ending with a marathon (26.2 miles). ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY MILES. Holy mother eff. While I would LOVE to say that I finished a race like that and collect everything that goes with it, including bragging rights, there's just a few things holding me back. Firstly, the furthest I've ran in my life is a little over five miles. People pass out, go to the hospital, are weak for days, etc. after a marathon. Add another 100+ miles of biking and swimming on to that and you can bet I'd be nearly dead.

It just seems really damaging to your body and your muscles. When you're active for that long (the record for shortest race is 8 hours and 3 minutes) your muscles begin to deteriorate in order to provide energy to your body and I don't know about you, but deteriorating muscles just doesn't sound appealing to me. I'll just stick to my little sprint tri for now, thank you.

Do you or have you ever considered doing any of these things? 

Things you probably didn't care to know

Oh hi, how ya derrin? Yes, it's really me, back from an impromptu four day (blogging) weekend. Although I wish it could have been a real four day weekend. I actually wish all weekends were four days. That would make for a much more enjoyable work week. I really don't even know why I'm talking about a "work week" and "weekend." I'm a nurse and those don't exist anymore.
Since it's been quite some time since I've written a good ole "random shit you probably don't need to know but I'm going to tell you anyway" type of post, I figured I'd grace your minds with some facts. About myself.

Obligatory random picture that has nothing to do with anything. But you can read about Honduras here and here.

Fact number one. I hate socks. I hate wearing them, I hate folding them, I hate it when I lose one and then one is missing a mate. I especially hate it when other people are wearing socks and they put their feet anywhere near me. Ugh it gives me heebie jeebies.
Fact number two. I don't like the color pink. Yes, I'm a girl with all her working parts. Except the part that likes pink things. And chocolate, I don't like that either.
Fact number three. I carry a gun. I'm sure you may think I'm a walking, talking cliche because I do live in Alabama and all of that, but you'd be surprised at how many people are surprised that I'm packing. No, I don't carry it at all times. Yes, I have a permit. No, I've never shot a human. Yes, I will protect you when the inevitable "zombie apocalypse" happens.
Fact number four. The best piece of advice I've gotten (and probably will ever get) is "suck it up." Plain and simple. I try to live by it most days and remember that things aren't always going to go my way and there really isn't a point to sit and pout about it. 
Fact number five.  I like to get banana peppers on my subway sandwich (or any sandwich) but I always end up picking them off because I like the flavor but not the texture on my sandwich.
Fact number six. I signed up this weekend for another triathlon (you may remember that I was supposed to participate in one last year, until I broke my arm). This really isn't a "fact about me" but I'm using it as an excuse because I just wanted to talk about how PUMPED I am to be training again. Today was my first unofficial training day, but I plan on starting for real next week, I'm making a schedule and everything. And I will be blogging about it. I'm expecting you to hold me accountable.
So what have you learned about me? I'm a gun-totin' redneck that doesn't like pink and is crazy enough to try and compete in a triathlon. I hope you'll stick around.

In my bag

I have seen a few "what's in my bag" posts floating around a few blogs and instagram accounts. Firstly, I want to say that I don't believe half of them that I've seen. An apple? You keep an apple in your purse all the time? Once I carried a peach to work in my work bag... it rolled out and under the seat of my car and I didn't find it for weeks. That was gross. The Bag

I'm a huge fan of cross-body bags and an even bigger fan of canvas bags. Enter the Kavu Sydney Satchel in Cool Gardens (which has been discontinued) (similar pattern here). I've never been a fancy purse person, never will be. One time I bought a Coach purse on black Friday for myself and returned it by the end of the week. There are just other things I'd rather spend my money on. The Goods

1 - Wallet. 2 - Exfoliating soap. There was a box of goodies... samples of toothpaste and little soaps and stuff at work and I snagged this exfoliating soap and forgot to take it out of my bag. Whoops. 3 - Deodorant. Gotta stay fresh, ya dig? 4 - Neutrogena face cleansing wipes. Also from the box of goodies, however a little more practical for carrying around than a bar of soap. 5 - My old driver's license. No clue why I have it still, I renewed my DL back in July. 6 - Appointment cards. OB/GYN, hair salon, and orthopedic doctor. 7 - Pens and pencils galore. 8 - Carmex. I can't live without this stuff. 9 - Pen light. You know, in case I need to check anyone's pupillary reactions. 10 - Emergency tampon 11 - Three receipts. I'm actually pretty proud of this number, I was thinking it would be a lot more 12 - Work keys 13 - Emergency bobby pins 14 - Emergency hair brush 15 - Aleve liquid gels 16 - Temp badge for work. For when I forget my real badge at home or in the car, this one is in my purse at all time. Shh, don't tell HR. 17 - Football ticket from the other weekend, the one that I was really worried would be fake. It wasn't. 18 - Grocery list 19 - Mini mag light 20 - My actual work badge + Vera Bradley lanyard that I LOVE 21 - Hospice koozie. I love it when reps give us free goodies but koozies have to be my favorite. AFTER cookies from Panera Bread. 
Not pictured: My phone, being that I don't have a fancy digital SLR camera (yet) to take pretty pictures with, and my point and shoot is MIA, the Galaxy S4 got the honor of playing photographer for this game. Also not pictured are my keys, but everyone has keys and mine were on the front table by the stairs and I didn't feel like getting them for this. I usually carry lipstick too, but I recently left my purse in my car on a hot day and melted THREE tubes. 
What's in your bag?

A mish mash of a Friday

 Happy Friday, friends! I was planning on getting up a  little early this morning to write a Friday Favorites post per usual, but sleep got in the way. As did the gym. Speaking of the gym, I forgot to bring extra shoes to change in to, and I was NOT about to wear my Nike's with a maxi skirt (as Derek suggested) so I got to hop on over to target and buy these little gems.

And let me tell you, I don't hate it.  

No, I didn't want to spend money that I didn't necessarily need to spend, but it is what it is and I got some pretty shoes. 

I also got some not so good news this morning. My temporary position as admissions nurse has reached it's end and I'm pretty sad about it. I came into this position knowing I wouldn't be in the office permanently, but in the past three months I've become good friends with my office mates and come to love the work more and more each day. So in about two weeks, after I'm done training the new nurse, I'll be back out on the floor. Working the 12 hour shifts, pushing meds, and saving lives. Even though I'm sad to be leaving the office, I'm glad to be back out on the floor after such a long absence. (I'm really hoping I haven't gotten rusty). Even if it means wiping poop and other fun things like that.

In other news, the Alabama State Fair has been in town for OVER A WEEK and I still haven't gone yet. I'm pretty disappointed. BUT I am holding out because FOREIGNER will be there tomorrow night and I would really really love to go see them. It would be my first time (feels like the first time!) (sorry that was corny) seeing them and being that they're on of my ALL TIME FAVORITES I really need to go. 

We're half way through the semester with school, and I'm pretty happy with my grades. I know I made it a goal to study 8 hours a week for everything. Weeeellll that hasn't exactly happened but I have been studyinig some throughout the week, which is more than I was doing before. Before, it was a cram session before the test and that wasn't exactly fun. The changes are obviously working though because I made an A on my last test, whoop whoop!

Going to the Auburn game last weekend has given me serious football fever. MUST GO TO ALL THE GAMES! I seriously wish tickets weren't through the roof or I would go to all of the home games. I love everything about it. I love the tailgating, the comradere, the atmosphere inside the stadium right before kickoff, the yelling, screaming, singing, cheering of all the fans. I just love it. My mom mentioned getting tickets for the AU v. GA game and I reeeeallly hope that wasn't just a teaser.

I think I'm finally done with this brain dump now. So it's time to #backthatazzup with the yoga pants queen herself, Whitney. Speaking of backing it up, I SO SO wish we were allowed to listen to music in the office. I feel like my productivity would increase x1000.

But I don't wanna

As I sat down to write this post while simultaneously procrastinating studying for an upcoming test, I started thinking about how much I don't really want to write this post. Not because I don't like to blog, but because my brain is tired from all of the studying I did last night and from my super long day at work (I stayed over an hour late) and I just didn't feel like writing anything. But I'm supposed to. Which got my little brain to thinking some more... how many times during the day do we do something that we don't really want to do but we do it anyway because we're "supposed" to. I'm not talking about things we're really supposed to do like flushing our number twos or looking both ways before we cross the street, I'm talking about things like putting on makeup and washing my car because society "expects" us to. So in true blogger fashion, here's a nice list:
Brushing/styling my hair I understand that we are supposed to look presentable when we're out and about in society. Or at work or doing whatever it is we do during the daylight hours. But what part of presentable says that we need to spend 30+ minutes fixing and styling our hair? Why can't I just half ass blow dry it and wear it in a pony every day for the rest of my life? Oh . . . because everyone will think I'm a bum Putting away laundry It's not the washing. Not the drying, or the folding that bothers me. It's the part where I have to open all the drawers, take (after I find) all the empty hangers down from my closet, put the clothes on the hanger, hang them up (whew I'm exhausted just typing that), only to take them down again. It really just does not make sense to me. Whoever invented dressers and closets can just go straight to hell. Having a "spotless" house There's nothing wrong with having a nice, tidy house. But when I go to someone's house and it looks like no one lives in it, it kind of creeps me out a little. Like, do they have little cleaning fairies lurking in the dark to pick up the crumbs I leave behind? Will the owners flip a lid if I walk on the carpet with shoes? I just don't understand. I want my house to be clean, but I also want it to look like it's inhabited.  Keeping my car clean Speaking of spotless houses... my car is a completely different story. Not that it's gross or anything, there's just a lot of junk in there. I go to the gym, work, and school pretty  much every day. I've got a lot of crap to lug around, and sometimes it's just easier to leave it in the car than take it in and out every day. Oh and keeping the outside clean. I live in a dusty area and I really just don't feel like washing my car weekly.  Apologizing for senseless things "Sorry the house is such a mess!" "Sorry the dog is barking!" "Sorry I did a better job than you at work/school/the race!" Just stop. I'm not saying to be rude about anything but what is the point in apologizing for either something you aren't really sorry for, or for something you have no control over. It's like we're supposed to be sorry for breathing other people's air too. Just don't say anything, I'm sure the person your "apologizing" to really doesn't care either.   What are some things you do all the time even though you really don't want to?

Some random sh*t

Today's post comes to you sponsored by Kalyn is too exhausted to use her brain like a normal human being and is instead just throwing a lot of random stuff at you.

-Seriously, this week at work has been cray-zay. The past two days I haven't even had a chance to glance at any form of social media, and it is so weird. I feel so disconnected from everyone (not that I was so connected in the first place, but now I feel like I've missed out on two days of everyone's life).

-Wednesday night I decided to do a little bit of participating in this thing we call life, and went over to a friend's house for a "welcome home" cookout and had a blast. Nothing out of the ordinary, but it was nice to get out of the house.

-Despite the crazy I mentioned earlier at work, I am absolutely loving my new position at work. I really really like the people in my office and the work is great too, even if it does get really hectic sometimes.

-I finally got a new pair of glasses after breaking mine last month. I'm really digging them.

Definitely  a change from the plain black ones I had before.

- I'm watching The Princess Diaries and I forgot how much I kinda don't like Anne Hathaway, but I still think this movie is pretty funny. I also watched The Devil wears Prada this week so I'm having a little bit of an Anne overload

-I'm having my first glass of wine in months and I really can't believe I've gone so long without it. Read this post for a little bit more info on why it's been so long.

- I curbed stomped my final and final presentation last week and came out with a B overall in my class, which I'm really proud of. Speaking of final presentations, someone presented on STIs and their visual aide was a homemade penis cake.

 A penis cake with syphilis. Cute, right?

-I really miss my fur babies a lot. Like a lot a lot. Like as in I kinda want to drive to my parents' house just to see them.

-There's this triathlon. This triathlon that is in one month. Even though I go to the gym every day, I haven't done any additional training. Like swimming or biking 10 miles. Maybe I'll just wing it. (and now I've talked about sports, I can link up with Sarah.

I don't know how I feel about this sweaty selfie being so large. But here it is.

-My in laws are gone for three weeks to Canada and they left this huge long list of  things we're supposed to do around the house and I don't know how I feel about it. Insulted I guess, since one of the things on the list is "keep kitchen clean." Seriously?

Aaaannd that's all I've got for ya today. Happy Friday.