Thoughtful Confessions

Hawaii May 2011- Part One

2011-06-17T15:34:00.000-04:00

I've been meaning to post this blog entry for a month now. Just haven't gotten around to it. You'll see why.

In May, Boyfriend and I ventured to Hawaii for five nights.
Let me start my saying 8 hour flights are not for me. And 8 hour flights with a screaming child are definitely not for me.

Anyways, here's our trip in pics. Surprise at the end. And in case you were wondering, yes this is where Jurassic Park and LOST were filmed.

View of O'ahu from the plane

Our smurf Mustang for the week

Views from our hotel

Sunset over Honolulu

Some awesome tree shots

View at night

Me and some mountain :)

My favorite scenic point.

This reminded me of the Harry Potter cave.

Rocks in the mountain looked like a stairway

Our resort at night, waiting for the fireworks to start.

Driving driving driving

This reminded me of where they hid from the polar bears and smoke monster in LOST.

Me and Boyfriend

"I love these trees!!"

This is a pic of the diagram above, where the volcano once was.

Beautiful views from this look-out point.

"What's so special about this bench?" you might be wondering.

Stay tuned for the next installment of Hawaii May 2011 to find out what the bench is all about.

Living under a rock.

2011-04-18T17:13:00.000-04:00

When I was in school I had loads of time to blog. You know since I always needed an excuse not to study.
But I've been working the past 6 months or so. And there's no internet at work, so no blogging there. And I'm usually pretty busy saving lives and all.

Then I hibernate for 2-4 days before I go back to work.

I'm slowing adjusting and require on 1/2-1 day of hibernation. Which really by definition isn't hibernation at all. Hmm.

So here I am. Back in the blog-o-sphere. Everything looks different. Did you get a haircut? Looks good!

Want to know what I do at work?
I'm an ICU nurse (aka. total care slave). I'm a nurse, housekeeper, butler, weight lifter, keeper of secret documents, giver of baths, wiper of bums, pro coffee drinker, vampire (I steal your blood), alcohol withdrawal wrangler, family mediator, and much more.

This is what I feel like at 7am

This is what I feel like at 7pm (quitting time)

But I love it!!!
But I also miss my hobbies. So don't be sad, you'll be seeing me around here more often.

A Love Affair... Revived

2010-10-06T15:34:00.000-04:00

Not a real love affair. Come on, people. I love Boyfriend very much!

Recently though, my life has changed tremendously. The last month brought so many changes, my head is still spinning.

I used to love books. I didn't just read them, I devoured them. I knocked out the last installment of Harry Potter in a day. A DAY! And that is a beast of a book.

All these changes have given me tons of free time compared to what I had 6 months ago. Thank God! I am finally reading again. I bought three books with my first paycheck two weeks ago. The first one I read (thanks to suggestions from Twitter followers) was this...

5 out of 5 stars Ms. Collins!!!

I loved this book. The story was amazing. I loved all of the characters. It kept me sucked it for it's entirety. I pulled so many technical elements from this novel that I realize needs improvement in my own writing.

I highly recommend!!

It fact, I'm headed to the store in a few to buy the Catching Fire and Mockingjay.

Has anyone else read it (dumb question, if you read YA then of course you've read it)? What did you enjoy about it? Did you zoom through it like I did, or did it not keep you interested?

Clothes, Books and Dog testicles.

2010-09-28T13:10:00.000-04:00

I got my act together early. I knew what I wanted to do early in life and went for it straight out of high school. Want to know the upside to that? I'm 22 years old, no kids, hardly any bills and lots and lots of money. I have the opportunity to work for a chance to play, not just work to get by. It's been a long hard road. Sometimes I stopped and wondered if I was missing out. If I should have let myself be young and stupid and get into some trouble. Now looking back I'm glad I didn't.

So I got paid. YIPPEEE!!

And I cried in the parking lot of the finance building upon opening my check. Then I dried it up and went shopping. Oh goodness did I go shopping!

Now what did I buy, you ask?

CLOTHES!! I have been wearing the same crap for several years just biding my time to get out of school and have money. I'm now the proud owner of several cute outfits. I promised the clothes I left in the store I would be back after next check so they wouldn't feel left out.

BOOKS!! I have also been re-reading the same books over and over (if I had time) because I didn't have money to splurge on unnecessary things like books. I got The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, City of Bones by Cassandra Clare, and Under the Dome by Stephen King. I honestly have no idea if the Stephen King is a good one, but it's big enough to weigh down a body to toss in a river, and you really can't go wrong with Stephen King.

DOG TESTICLES! Ok this part isn't really exciting or something I've been dying to do with my new money but whatever. My poor puppy Lucky will have his nether regions removed Friday morning. I didn't want to but he is - uh,er - dominating everything including me and wandering away from home. So goodbye furry balls of manhood.

That is all for now.

How have you all been?

My my my, the things I will buy.

2010-09-19T21:49:00.000-04:00

Friday is payday. My very first payday as a nurse. My very first awesome payday as a newly hired nurse. My first paycheck in THREE years. Let's just say I have a very very very very long mental shopping list.

After paying a few bills and getting my credit card down to a reasonable limit. I am going to splurge. The practical side of me is going to say "Save your hard earned money." But for once, I'm going to let the crazy side of me kick the practical side's ass and say "Buy whatever you want!"

At least for a little while, then I'll be practical Kari again. Boo.

Dream Job!!

2010-09-01T19:24:00.000-04:00

I GOT IT!

That's right ladies and gents. I finally got a job. I interviewed today, am filling out paperwork, and I start Tuesday next week!

I'll be working in ICU. Can't wait to see my first paycheck!! It will be the first one I've seen in 3 years!

For lack of better ideas...

2010-08-26T11:37:00.000-04:00

I always get really caught up on thinking about things I like and dislike.
Anyone who knows me personally would be glad to tell you about my annoying quirk. So, I figured it was only fair to share the same weirdness with you all, my bloggy friends. After all, it's not nice to treat some friends different than others.

"I just looove..."
-summer rain storms
-wind
-coffee at night
-my doggy
-full moons
-Johnny Depp (who doesn't?)
-late afternoon coma-naps (don't know what a coma-nap is?)
-being cold (my thermostat is set at 66F)
-sad sounding music (Jeff Buckley, Damien Rice, Cat Power, etc)
-rain at the beach

"I HATE..."
-summer/heat/sweating/etc
-social stigma surrounding Southerners (I have all my teeth and a college degree, thank you!)
-people in their late 20's telling me, "Oh, you're just young." (and you are what?)
-crazy neighbors
-unemployment
-hypocrites
-antagonizers (just mind your own business!)

Holy Cow

2010-08-20T10:51:00.000-04:00

It's been almost a month since my last post. A friggin month. What the heck have I been doing?

Oh yes, I remember what I've been busy with.

Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

I've put in countless job applications. So many in fact that simply logging in and checking the status of them isn't enough. I've had to create a physical checklist.

[notepad courtesy of Sashay Magazine @ sashaymagazine.com]

And still haven't gotten so much as a phone call.

Now all you fellow writers out there might be thinking "This is great Kari! You have all this free time with no school and no job, you must be like a writing ninja!!"

Unfortunately I've managed to procrastinate for two months. I've only written 2k and that was just going back and adding some sentences here and there. Bad writer! Bad! NO, NO!

On the upside (maybe, downside?), I've had loads of free time to spoil my baby, er uh, my dog.

For some reason he has it in his head that he is a lap dog. Don't know where that came from! *looks away guiltily*

He is quite handsome though, isn't he?

Also, I haven't been blogging due to the fact that I have nothing to say.

What do you guys even like reading about? My writing? My boring, hermit life? The dog?

Burps and Farts (Warning: Semi-Gross Post)

2010-07-24T15:26:00.000-04:00

It never ends. The reactions and comments about my relationship that stem from the "fart and burp" topics. The response is the exact opposite of what I think it should be.

During casual conversation on relationships:

Friend: Husband just thinks it's hilarious to fart under covers and hold the blanket over my head at night.
Me: Gross
Friend: I get him back though. I wait until he's stuck in the shower and I rip one in the bathroom so he can't get away from it.
No comment.
Friend: What? confused look You guys don't do that?
Me: Umm...no.
Friend: What? You must not be very comfortable around each other then.

Excuse me. Not comfortable? People judge my relationship with Boyfriend by whether or not we decide to pass bodily gasses in front of each other? Is that a quality on Match.com?

That reaction and comment never ceases to amaze me. It's right up there with "You don't like dry humping in public? What's wrong with you? Are you insecure?"
(Note: the dry-humping bit was an exaggeration. I don't think any of my friends actually do that in public. At least I hope not. But this is the reaction when I state my opinion on public displays of affection.)

Seriously?? I don't fart or burp in front of Boyfriend (and vise-versa) because neither one of us enjoys hearing or smelling it. We both agree that it's right up there with bowel movements and tampon removal: a PRIVATE matter.

Does he leave me if I happen to let a burp slip? No. Do I get angry if he farts on me? No. We just don't do it. I just don't understand what bodily functions have to do with being comfortable and secure in a relationship.

Note: If you and your partner do the things I've mentioned, I'm not saying your gross or anything of that sort. I'm just a little confused as to why I keep getting this reaction.

Oh and on a funnier note, when I Googled "farts and burps" to find a picture there are three images of Britney Spears. Not sure what that means.

What do you think? Does not burping or farting in front of your significant other mean your are insecure? Should I tell people to shove it when they respond this way? Do you burp or fart in front of your significant other?

What happened to Barbies and Hopscotch?

2010-07-17T09:55:00.000-04:00

It's pet peeve time. I know you guys hate it. But I've been in a passive aggressive funk for three days so deal.

What is the deal with tweens these days? And better yet, what is the deal with their parents?

When I was eleven, I played outstide, play with Barbies, watched Disney Channel, and jumped on a trampoline. Oh yeh, and there was also this stupid crap called homework that ate up a good chunk of my time.

So why are tween girls plastered all over the YouTube swearing, trying to show of body parts that haven't even grown yet, and actually convincing themselves that people think it's cool.

Grow up little girls. Wait, on second thought, don't grow up. YOU ARE A CHILD. Be a child while you can.

I found the story of Jessi Slaughter today via another YouTube personality. If you haven't heard of it, I'll give you a briefing.

This girl is ELEVEN. Long story short, she made YouTube videos and crap and eventually was being harassed.

Ok, I can see how an eleven year-old might sneak a webcam into their room and record themselves without the parents knowledge. That's plausible right?

The part that got me was the fact these parents KNEW she was recording herself. Hello parents? Ever heard of pedophiles and internet-stalkers? Ever think your precious princess isn't a genius and would likely give out personal information to complete strangers?

Full story with video footage of said tween.

I'm just saying, I would like to think that when I am a parent, I will have enough sense not to give my preadolescent son or daughter free roam of the internet and webcam without being monitored.

What do you guys think? If you have children of preadolescent age would you sympathize with this girl and her parents? Or would you agree that they are complete imbeciles? Thoughts, comments??

Don't kick the seat.

2010-07-07T20:49:00.000-04:00

Note: Every single word to follow is 100% truth. No exaggeration, no spiffing up, no extra details to make it seem a bigger deal than it really is. THIS REALLY TRULY HAPPENED.

I had every intention of writing a review of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse after I saw it last week. But as they say, the best laid plans go to waste. We got more than we paid for.

Do NOT kick the back of the seat of the person sitting in front of you. I saw first hand the result. (However if you live in an area NOT occupied by white trash, you might be OK.)

Picture it, twi-hards fill the theater wall to wall. The lights dim and chatter comes to grinding halt. The movie begins.

During the Jasper/Maria/Victoria dream sequence I feel a tap on my shoulder. My mom.

"Is somebody yelling?" she asks.

"It's the movie." I reply, hearing nothing but Jasper's screams and Bella's gasp as she wakes up.

Then I see what she'd heard.

From my back row view, I see a chick on crutches in the front row turned around SCREAMING at the four girls behind her. Screaming. Profanities. Waving hands. The whole enchilada.

Numerous things can heard throughout the theater now.
"Sit down!"
"Shut up!"
"There are kids in here!"

She does as the crowd commands and takes her seat and shuts up. But only for mere minutes.

Then she is up again. Still yelling profanities.

Then things really heat up. Her escort/boyfriend/husband helps her to her feet and begins shuffling her up the ramp and out of the theater.

*Applause*

She takes a ridiculously sarcastic bow with a few more curses to the crowd thrown in.

Just as we all think she's leaving and we can get back to the movie. The escort/boyfriend/husband walks up a few steps instead of heading down the exit ramp.

WHAP!

"What the hell was that?!"Mom asks.
"I think he just hit someone." I answer, now standing trying to get a better view. "Oh my gosh he did, he hit a guy!"

My movie-going neighbor turns to me. "It was a woman! It was a woman! He hit a woman!"

Yes my friends, this psychotic white trash piece of...well...trash hit an INNOCENT woman in the face.

That is just not cool!

I suck at posting.

2010-07-06T23:59:00.000-04:00

Seriously, I have five posts that are still drafts. FIVE. Because somewhere along the line, I've developed some form of ADHD in which I convince myself there is something somewhere that needs to be done.

I'll try to do better. Partially because I sprained my ankle and can't really do to much so I'm forced to sit.

Project Rant and iPhone Update

2010-06-22T21:17:00.000-04:00

My guilty pleasure #83 is YouTube. Not just making and uploading videos. But I can peruse the Tube all day. I recently stumbled across a new channel. Project Rant.

Now we all have those pet peeves and little things that piss us off. Don't try to deny it. Project Rant takes those little things and makes them into hilarious 2-3 minutes clips. Stuff you wish you could say, they say for you.

Here's a few of my favorites. If you don't watch them all, please watch the last one...HILARIOUS!
[Some have obscenities, so if that offends you, you have been warned.]

NO MORE BOOGIES!!

I actually like the names Hayden and Jayden. But I do half some pet peeve tendencies towards people naming their kids all the same thing.

Now, seeing how as I've been with the same guy for the better half of a decade, I personally don't have experience with vagina blocking friends, but this one was just too hilarious not to share with you!

Ok on to bigger and better things.

I've still been torn about this whole new iPhone 4 thing. I really want the front facing camera, HD video recording and camera flash. But the fact that Apple offered their new iPhone software to current iPhone users for free, made me hold off.

So last night I downloaded the new software. I LOVE IT. If you have an iPhone, I highly suggest plugging that bad boy in right this second and downloading the update.

My favorite features:

ability to change the background image on all home screens.
ability to combine like Apps into folders to clear up the clutter (good for people like me who have 4 pages of apps that you don't use but don't want to delete either)
iBooks. Period. It's alot like Kindle for iPhone (which I have) but now I can purchase books and have them charged through my iTunes account. Also, the bookshelf looks pretty sweet. Now I really have to be carefully, I might go broke.
Multitasking. You can double click the home button and a little menu of apps that are currently running pops up. So if you are playing a game, reading, etc. You don't really close all the way out of the app your in to, say, write a text message. The only downside is occasionally you'll have to go through and close the apps out in that little menu, otherwise they just stay there.

Here's a few screenshots of my phone:

New cool background image behind all my apps.

FOLDERS!!!

When you open a folder of apps you've created:

What multi-tasking looks like when you double click the home button. I did it while in the iBooks app.

Any other iPhone users out there have the new update? What do you like most? What do you dislike?

...And the mome raths outgrabe.

2010-06-19T11:20:00.000-04:00

I absolutely positive love Alice in Wonderland. And not just the new hollywood version, but the old school Disney and the books.

Not only do I love Alice in Wonderland, but I'm a huge fan of Tim Burton, Johnny Depp, and Helena Bonham Carter.

So I don't really need to say this but...

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland is my latest favorite movie.

I love that there is a sort of story line in Tim Burton's version, whereas in the Disney version and in the books Alice is just wondering around. Don't misunderstand, I totally get that Lewis Carroll meant for Alice to go on a pointless journey through her own mind, but Tim Burton's vision of the madness is refreshing.

I also like that he brought the Jabberwock and Bandersnatch to life. The Jabberwocky poem in Through the Looking Glass is so random and whimisical. And he stayed true to the original illustration!

Of course, my favorite characters the Hatter (Depp) and the Red Queen (Bonham Carter).

What do you think? Did you like it? Did you even see it yet? If you haven't, are you going to see it?

The urge is hitting me again.

2010-06-18T07:43:00.000-04:00

Back in the day, before Facebook and Twitter became the social networking sites of choice, I had a Myspace profile. Guilty as charged.

Myspace was pretty cool. I didn't hardly talk to anyone, but boy did I love vamping my profile page! After a while, all the premade stuff I found sucked. I didn't want to look like everyone else, because let's face it, I'm not like everyone else.

So, I downloaded an editing program (Photofiltre) and a bunch of fonts and brushes, and started doing my own thing. I made tons of images and headers, backgrounds and buttons. I had quite a fan base too. I know over 10,000 friends.

[Random stuff I made...the dancing chick on the left is my all time favorite! Made it from scratch with a random picture of a girl on Google. The sad face on the right is actually me.]

I forgot how much I loved doing this until yesterday when I downloaded a new program that's compatible with Mac OS (Gimp) and set off to make myself a new header.

I'm really really really tempted to start making stuff again.

What do you guys think? Like my new blog header? Buttons? Should I make some basic stuff and throw it up for free (with maybe a Paypal donate button)? Would you use something I made if you could choose from different styles and then have me customize with your blog name?

Introducing...Nurse Kari.

2010-06-17T08:51:00.000-04:00

That's right!!

All this hard work I've been bitching about for the last year has finally paid off. I'm officially licensed to practice as a registered nurse in the state of South Carolina.

[This is my actual printable license card!! How exciting!!]

Now I just need to find a job.

But Kari. I thought there was a nursing shortage?

Well, technically yes. Kind of. But you have to look at the big picture. The way I see it is, T=the economy sucks so companies (yes, hospitals are ultimately businesses) don't want to pay more for more brand new nurses when they can overwork the ones they have.

It can't be that bad.

Yes. It can.

Here's the deal. I live in a medical community. As in there are 5 major hospitals in the immediate area. Two are within walking distance...well maybe a long walk. Out of all these facilities you'd think I would find one job. But the only positions available are PRN (on an as needed basis) or in areas that require prior experience in the field. Boo.

Oh well. I'll just keep my fingers crossed and my resumes out there and wait for a bite. Meanwhile, I'll use my free time to get back into my WIP.

Wish me luck!

Ups and Downs of Puppy Parenthood

2010-06-16T18:59:00.000-04:00

I grew up around tons and tons of animals. Cats, dogs and horses could be found scattered around our 4 acre yard. Having pets isn't necessarily new to me.

However, Lucky is the first ever puppy that I can call my own. He is also the first ever to be raised as and indoor pet.

[Lucky guarding Mommy's Starbucks]

I'm definitely learning as I go.

On the Up side
-I think they are easier to train and control when they are constantly under supervision (or in their crate).
-You get to witness all the goof, hilarious things they do (Lucky likes to chew his own leg - picture the hyena in Disney's The Lion King.)
-Two words: Cuddle Partner
-They are less "wild" because you are with them most of the time (Lucky's sister is a outdoor puppy who is even more insane because no one has time to spend outside in the hellish heat with her.)
-Bursts of psychotic puppy energy

On the Down side
-They get spoiled.
-Two words: Potty training.
-Urine accidents are no fun to clean up.
-Rolls of shredded toilet paper cost money.
-Bursts of psychotic puppy energy.
-Destroyed shoes and clothes

Even though he's a freaking nut case sometimes, I love my little puppy!!
PS. I highly recommend crate training.

What about you guys?
Any preference for dogs indoors or out?
Any awesome training methods?

Happens every time.

2010-06-15T14:37:00.002-04:00

As soon as I get the latest cool technology, something new comes out. Never fails.

Apple, you've done it to me again.

For those of you out of the techno loop, Apple introduced their brand new iPhone 4 last week:

Beautiful isn't it? Of course it is.

It's thinner and has stronger glass. Front facing camera and video calling!

And of course you had to release it after I get my phone. Thank you, Apple.
The only thing I am happy about is the new OS4 (operating system) will be available free to users of iPhone 3G and 3GS.

Writer's Blok

2010-05-17T16:01:00.000-04:00

Just caught Jackson Pearce's new video on YouTube.
HILARIOUS!

Ever, Patch, and Tony Stark

2010-05-15T12:09:00.000-04:00

I have three reviews in one for you today!
Evermore by Alyson Noel
Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
and Iron Man 2

First Up:

I bought this book for two reasons: to have something to read on my beach trip, and because I've seen in on a few of my blogger buddy's reading lists and such.

All in all, I think it was an OK book. For me it was an easy read. I didn't care much for the world that Alyson Noel created. I was a little overwhelmed with a telepath, a ghost, and an immortal. Some of the details with the immortal race she presented I didn't care for either.

I would love to go into tons of detail, but I frankly can't remember much more.

TOTAL:

Three out of five stars

Next up:

I LOVED THIS BOOK!! I fell in love with Patch and knew, just knew through the whole thing he couldn't possibly be the bad guy. I could go on and on about this all day, but I'll spare you. I loved everything about it: the characters, settings, mythology. EVERYTHING. The only complaint is my OCD and nursing knowledge kicking in that iron tablets do not provide immediate relief for anemia symptoms and they should be taken with orange juice not chocolate milk. I'm just saying.

I would recommend this to anyone and everyone. In fact, I have been telling everyone within earshot about it.

Total: five out of five stars

Lastly:

To me, this movie broke the law of sequels: it was better than the first movie. I loved the battles and Scarlet Johansson rocked!

This is a must-see if you like the first one!

I've been busy OR My life in pictures.

2010-05-08T20:57:00.000-04:00

First things first:
Who likes my new blog look/feel?
Found the awesome-est awesome site thingy that allows you to pick a cool basic template then tweek it to your liking. Just click here and check the box that says "Make blogger in draft my default dashboard". Then when you go to layout and such you can choose from templates and such!

So the past two weeks have been crazy busy but actually didn't involve any studying (crazy I know!).
Here's a recap in pictures.

Went to the beach for an end-of-nursing-school blowout with the girls

Fed some sea gulls

(which I later found out is frowned upon by South Carolina law)

Saw a HUGE jellyfish.

Had coffee on the balcony.

Went shopping.

(Did not buy this hat)

DID buy this Coach (for a very cheap outlet price)

Went out to eat. (I'm in the middle)

Got a tan (I'm on the left).

Chatted with a bird at the Salty Dog Store.

Played with this cat in the same store.

Deflated a Nemo float.

Carried Nemo float to the car.

Dreamed of owning my own grass hula skirt.

We got home in just enough time to mentally prepare for graduation and pinning.

(Yes I was slightly emotional in this first one, pardon the goofy expression.)

Peanut Butter

2010-04-27T23:51:00.000-04:00

The time has come, my little friends, to talk of other things...

2010-04-15T00:57:00.000-04:00

I'm done! Finished! Graduation is just a few short weeks away!

I actually freaking did it. (and yes, miraculously my sanity is still somewhat intact!)

Updates, updates, time for some updates...

My birthday last month was the best I've ever had. I wasn't expecting much. My friends gave me a few cards and birthday wishes then we all left school and went our separate ways for the day (or so I thought). Several hours later, I walked into what I thought was a family dinner but turn out to be a surprise bash thrown by my amazing friends and my mother! I had to give credit where credit was due...keeping a secret from me is not an easy task. Somehow though, they managed to plan behind my back for weeks!

I left that dinner get-together to spend some quality time with Boyfriend. I walk in the house and he immediately blocks the hall as if hiding something. I didn't even have time to figure out what was going on before this little thing walked around the corner with a red ribbon around his neck!

So, basically I've got a new love in my life. He's super smart too. He learned "sit" "shake" and "lay down" in just a few days...I'll post a video soon.

I'm so happy to finally have time to sit down and crank out a manic blog post. I've missed you guys!

Not Yet Dead

2010-03-02T19:09:00.000-05:00

Hello all! Yes, I am still alive and well (physically speaking).
I've got a few pieces of good news and a few pieces of bad news.

What do you want to hear first?
The good news, you say?

Well too bad. I'm a glass half full kind of girl, so I'd like to end on the good instead of dwelling on the bad.

The bad news is I might be having what's called a mid-life crisis. Except I'm only 22. What the hell. Let's just call it an early-life crisis. It's a miracle I have not been checked into a mental institution for stabilization. I just printed out a very scanty resume and had a panic attack because I have absolutely nothing on it! Oh well, I guess everyone has to start out with a crap resume.

Other cause for early-life crisis: I have no clue where I will be in the coming months. All my life, I have been a student. My life was semi-predictable and I thrived off structure and planning. It was easy. Fall comes, start school. Spring comes, end school. Fall start, Spring end. Start. End. Start. End. I went straight from high school to college without a thought of doing otherwise. Now, however, I'm going to be done with school for quite a while. So what exactly will happen? Only time will tell. I hate that.

More bad news. I know everyone was excited out seeing pet pictures and finding out who won my contest, but...NO ONE ENTERED! Pretty funny. Oh well.

The good news is I have 8 weeks left of nursing school. Eight long, jam-packed, horrific crappy weeks. Oops. Do you see what happened there? I kind of went off with the bad didn't I. Hopefully this next 8 weeks will go by as quickly as the last two years. Hopefully I will pass. And hopefully I will have some remnant of my sanity intact.

So there is my silver lining; I'm going through hell but at least there's only two months left.

I feel like this picture. But not in a serene, meditating kind of way, but an "I'm coming to the end and going to have to jump" kind of way.

Want some humor to finish it up? I googled "mental illness" and this picture came up. Awesome.

Contest Contest Contest

2010-02-04T11:01:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to run a contest for the last couple of months, but seeing as how I am broke to the point of near poverty (slight exaggeration, my mommy takes care of me), I had nothing to offer as a prize!

Well now I have a prize.

*pauses for cheers*

Ok, guys settle down! I know you are excited but I haven't even explained it yet. March is Pet Month at Sashay Magazine. I decided to do a spin off of my normal interview process and choose one person and their pet from different species (cat, dog, mouse, ferret, turtle, rabbit, etc.) and find out why you love your pet.

What you win
-A blog post just about you on Thoughtful Confessions
-A permanent link to you somewhere on my sidebar.
-A spot in my next interview for Sashay Magazine.
-A link to you blog or website of choice on the magazine.
-The joy of being promoted at two different sites.

What you do
-Find or take the most awesome pic of your pet
-In just a few sentences tell me why you love your pet/s (ie. cat vs dog), something special about them, and why you think it's good to have a pet.
-Send it all to me in an email. (karilynn_love[at]hotmail[dot]com)
-Spread the word about Sashay Magazine and the contest!

Cant wait to see your pics and answers!
The contest will end February 13 at midnight.

If you win
I will contact you through email and let you know. Your pic and statements will be featured in Sashay Magazine for the month of March and I'll also do something similar as a blog post. If you win, you'll need to put a link to Sashay Mag on your blog somewhere so you followers know where to go read the interview! We'll also link to you on the magazine!

GO GO GO !

Who would have thought!

2010-02-01T20:30:00.000-05:00

Boredom led to blogging.
Blogging led to writing again.
Writing again led to my coming out of the writer's closet to a few people I hold closest to me.

Procrastination led to silly blog posts.
Silly blog posts led to silly interviews.
Silly interviews led to...

My own feature? In an online magazine?

YES IT DID!

Today was the official launch of Sashay Magazine! The magazine focuses on women who are rugged, real, and refined: the 21st century woman. Hop on over and check it out!

I'm so excited to be a part of this and I can't wait to watch it grow.

Don't forget to spread the word about Sashay Magazine to all of your friends! If you enjoy the mag and create a link on your blog or in a post or even mention in a tweet, let me know and I'll link you in my sidebar!

Move over Mr. Depp...

2010-02-01T00:07:00.000-05:00

There's a new celebrity crush in town.

Bradley Cooper. AKA Mr. Yum Yum...I'm just saying.

wipes away drool and returns to studying

School and writing: I finally made a connection.

2010-01-25T00:56:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting up late tonight studying, trying to avoid my computer at all costs because the internet is an evil distraction. But I just read over a section in my textbook and had a small revelation. I would like to share.

Learning to be a good nurse isn't just about learning skills. Anyone can learn to start an IV or clean poop or give medications. The physical duties are complicated, yes, but they aren't everything. The hardest thing to learn is how to care. When you are swamped with paperwork and machines are beeping and patients are yelling for ice chips, it's easy to forget to care. In school, we are constantly reminded by our instructors and textbooks to treat patients like individuals and not like patients at all. Sound confusing? It's a hard thing to balance.

On to my point: my revelation, if you will. One thing that has been crammed down my throat since I started school is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Have no clue what I'm talking about? It's ok. I'll explain.

Abraham Maslow was the first psychologist to focus his studies of what a person was mentally capable of instead of what is wrong. He developed a theory of "needs" to explain human activity: his Hierarchy of Needs.

Here's a quick psychology lesson for those of you who are still lost. At the base of the pyramid are the physiological needs, the basic needs of all humans: air, water, food, etc. The pyramid moves up in priority including safety (financial security, structure, protection), belonging (affection, relationships, love), esteem (achievement, feelings of competency), and finally self-actualization. Maslow proposed that a person could not move up a level unless all needs were met in the current. For example, if you don't have air to breath, are you particularly worried about financial security at the moment? Probably not. Or if you don't have any loving relationships (belonging), do you have good self-esteem? The answer is probably no again.

Seriously, there is a point to all this, stay with me. The final chunk of the pyramid is self-actualization. In the past, I never actually understood what this meant. I suppose because I could never apply it to my own life. Until now. This is what my book says:

Maslow said, "What a man can be, he must be." What we are capable of becoming is highly individual - an artist must paint, a writer must write, and a healer must heal. The drive to satisfy this need is felt as a sort of restlessness, a sense that something is missing.
(from Foundations of Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing: A Clinical Approach, Varcarolis and Halter)

"...a sense that something is missing." Now I get it. Being self-actualized is about doing what you want to for yourself and feeling that it makes you whole. I also understand why I find it so hard to write while I'm in school.

I know to be a "good writer", you shouldn't make excuses. You should just sit down and write. But nursing school is no normal course load. I mentally can't even focus. Over the holiday (a month) I cranked out somewhere around 25k in my shiny new idea and probably a few thousand in my previous wip. Words since school started back? 100. Just 100. And I ended up deleting it.

I guess this whole "revelation" is such a big deal to me because I no longer feel like a loser because I can't sit down a write when I want to. I just know I have other needs that have to be taken care of before I can devote my time to what I love. I'm financially insecure, have no stability or structure, and my eating and sleeping habits are so far out of whack I'm not sure they will ever be normal again.

So, what gets in the way of your writing? Does it fit somewhere in the pyramid? Do you feel the need to deal with other things first before writing? Is writing your key to self-actualization?

Excuse my absense

2010-01-21T23:30:00.000-05:00

I write this with a heavy heart and sleepy eyes. Alas, I have come to the conclusion that my final semester of nursing school and blogging aren't going to mix well (if you couldn't already tell).

It has been weeks since my last post and I miss you guys! By the time I get a second to sit down at my computer, I'm so tired and stressed that I have no ideas to write about except rants about how tired and stressed I am.

I'm going on a blogging hiatus until further notice. I'll still try to post if and when I can, but no guarantees.

I'll miss everyone so much! I'm still going to be tweeting. Also, if you want to chat or catch up, feel free to email me!

Virtual hugs and kisses to all...

My Little Helper

2010-01-05T07:37:00.000-05:00

I've got my coffee, my water, my computer and my tunes.
I sit down to start writing.

Scratch Scratch Scratch Scratch

"What do you want kitty?"

Scratch Scratch Scratch Scratch

I get up and let her in. She proceeds to plop her fat butt down behind my computer.

Thanks for your help my little annoyance distraction precious!

On Writing

2010-01-04T15:25:00.005-05:00

I didn't originally start Thoughtful Confessions to talk about my writing. For one, I had yet to start writing again. But I started following blogs and realized that there's a whole host of writers out there. Published writers, unpublished writers, writers who went to school to write, and writers who study other things (like me). It got me thinking, which most of the time isn't a good thing.

I remember growing up and always writing something. Little snippets of dialogue I thought sounded neat. Characters names. Break-up scenes. Poems. Songs. You name it and I probably have a scrap of paper with something written on it that falls in the category. I loved it, but I didn't realize I loved it.

Flash forward to early adolescence. I excelled at my English classes. I was always being called on by the teacher to read whatever it was I'd handed in. I wrote things for our little publication of poems and drawings. I read constantly. But by the time I was in high school, writing nifty little poems just wasn't the cool thing to do, so somewhere along the way, I stopped.

Jump in time again to my college years. After getting up the guts (the drinks probably helped too) to show my best-friend "the notebook" (tattered binder that holds all snippets mentioned previously), she snatched a piece away from me that was a chapter of something I'd started. I was mortified, especially when she dropped the paper and I saw a disappointed expression.

"It's stupid, I know." I apologized.

"No. That's not it." she said. "This is really good. What happens next?"

What happens next? I was stunned. I had hooked her in enough with one chapter to actually want to read more. She thought I was good at it! The wheels in my brain started turning.

I started a new story but only got two chapters in before I was completely stuck. That little voice that says "Who are you kidding? You can't do this!" was in my ear and I couldn't drown it out. I quit again.

This past summer, I was lucky enough to get four months off from school. As I said in my last post/vlog, I was bored out of my mind. So I started a new idea I'd been pondering for quite sometime. I worked up the courage to ask for a new blogger-buddy's opinion. The feedback I received was just what I needed to keep me going, because this time it was from a fellow writer and not a friend with a biased opinion.

Unfortunately, that idea hit a dead end. Fortunately it was just in time for a new idea to take it's place. This one was different. I spent two days plotting it out almost entirely before I sat down and started writing.

This new piece I'm working on has consumed me entirely. It's all I can think about. The characters follow me into the shower. I have to whip out my phone every five minutes when I'm away from my computer to jot down notes.

I decided to write this post because over the last few months I've come out of the writer's closet. I've found a place to talk about the process and the aggravations. I've found people to talk to and say "Hey, I've got this new book idea." without the ever-famous response: "Oh, you're writing a book. Well that's nice." I've learned that not everyone goes to school to become a writer. And I've learned that I love it.

So I want to thank each of you who have helped drag me out of my closet, directly or indirectly. And I'm going to leave you with an unedited snippet of my most recent WIP which has yet to be named.

Several things confused me.

One was how I was alive at all. In the water, when my lungs had stopped burning, I knew I was dead. Even if I somehow would have made it to shore, the damage was done. But I was alive, by some miracle. The gritty sand on my skin and the shooting star darting across the sky proved that. I just didn’t know how. With all the water that had been in my lungs, I should have been dead.

The fact that I felt completely normal and not like a near-drowned rat baffled me as well. My lungs felt completely normal. I didn’t have any urge to cough or retch up any of the brackish water. I wasn’t dizzy or disoriented. I felt like I had simply woken up from a long nap. I could remember all of the events before and after my blackout. The green eyes were still burned into my memory.

The green eyes were the other thing. Who was that? Did they save me? Where were they now? Why had they been in the water at all?
As I buttoned up my shirt, I noticed the a small mark on my chest, just over my heart. It was red like a wound, but it didn’t hurt. I wasn’t sure of where it came from but I was certain that it formed the shape of a five-point star.

The App, the Award, and the Vlog

2009-12-31T18:07:00.000-05:00

Did I tell you I got my iPhone for Christmas? Oh, I did. Well you can hear it again. I got my beloved iPhone for Christmas!! Boyfriend is a great gift-giver.

Here's a pic of him driving taken with my phone. I managed to catch the suns rays through the window, which I love! The colors looked slightly dull, though. But there's an app for that: Photoshop Mobile.

So, a few days after Christmas I go shopping. Keep in mind I've been holed up in my home, binge-eating studying for the last few months and avoiding mirrors. With an armload of goodies I head to the fitting rooms. After being completely disgusted my what I saw in the mirror, I started my diet again. There's an app for that: My Fitness Pal and Nike+ (I track my nutritional intake and my workouts)

I'm really excited because I've got oodles of time to read before the semester starts. Unfortunately I can't sit home all day reading, and I hate lugging a huge book around with me. No worries. There's an app for that: Kindle for iPhone.

Basically, there's an app for everything and I've already spent too much money on them. They are all useful though, I don't pay for the game apps.

Also, I've received something to help ring in my new year...

An award!

Gael Wynne was kind enough to bestow upon me the Kreative Blogger Award!

Apparently I'm supposed to share seven things about myself, then pass this on to seven people. Great. I suck at picking people.

Seven things:
1. I have tons and tons and tons of freckles. But not the dark freckles on white skin. They sort of blend with my skin tone.
2. I don't feel completely ready to go somewhere until I have perfume on. I go through so much perfume.
3. I like tomato soup, tomato sauce, tomatoes in my salad, and tomatoes on my sandwich, but I can't eat a tomato by itself.
4. I'm a hermit. I get anxious at the thought of going anywhere there are people I don't know.
5. I like being in school. I never want to stop learning.
6. My car has been missing it's right front hubcap since I got the thing 5 years ago. Everytime I get a new one, it falls off. I'm beginning to think it likes it that way.
7. I'm a status-stalker. I have 300+ friends on Facebook. I have personally met every single one of them at some point it time. I currently only talk to five.

Seven people awarded:

Yeh, so I did two takes and decided it was good enough. Forgive me for looking around constantly and saying "um" a lot.

Hope everyone has a lovely New Years. Be safe and don't drink too much.

The Post-Christmas Post or The One Where I Learn Things About Myself.

2009-12-28T02:26:00.004-05:00

First of all, I hope everyone had a great Christmas with their loved ones. I did!

Second of all, I GOT MY IPHONE! Yay for me!! For a while there I was scared I wasn't going to get it! But I did and it's white and beautiful!

Third, I've learned a few things in these last few days Post-Christmas:

1. I do not like doing themed posts. Never ever ever again will I commit myself to writing certain themed blog posts. I struggled with these absurd Christmas posts (as if you couldn't tell). A week into the whole charade, I ran out of topics. Complete waste of a month of blogging. Along the way I thought of awesome things to blog about. But didn't because I couldn't relate it to Christmas. DO NO LET ME DO THIS AGAIN!

2. I develop unnatural and unhealthy attachments to my electronics. My computer has a name and my phone hasn't left my side. If I bump it too hard or something I say "Sorry". Yes, I am a nerd. Admitting is the first step. Embracing it is the second.

3. Grandmothers will love anything that is handmade. Even a silly DVD with videos she's already seen on it. If it has "Made By: Insert Your Name Here", she will cherish it for the rest of her life.

4. I don't like to spend a lot of money, but I refuse to shop during after-Christmas sales.
a. I have personal boundaries, and apparently others don't. If you are standing so close that I can smell your breath, you need etiquette lessons.
b. I do not where an X-small or XX-large, therefore I can be guaranteed my size won't be in stock.
c. Apparently, I'm the only person in a 100 mile radius that knows how to drive.
d. A store is not a jungly-gym or daycare, teach the monsters a few manners (like not to shake the rack of goodies I'm looking at or touch my stuff.) I'm not anti-kids by any means. I am, however, anti-bad-parenting.

5. I love my phone more than I thought I would. Of course, that goes without saying.

How was your holiday? Anything exciting happen?

Merry Christmas Eve and Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T10:13:00.005-05:00

In all the rush of last-minute cheap gift buying and wrapping, I forgot to post something yesterday. In all honesty, I couldn't think of anything to write about.

Today is the day of my final Christmas post and I don't plan on having much time tomorrow. If next year I come up with some hair-brained scheme like a Christmas post every day, talk me out of it! Some days this was pure hell! But I too stubborn to quit, so what you got was 24 crap-posts. I'm sorry!

On this Christmas Eve, I'm giving you your "gift" from me!
This is the video mentioned a few days ago!

As I said before, I made this at JibJab.

I hope each and every one of you has a very Merry Christmas!

The most awesome idea I've ever had

2009-12-22T20:16:00.000-05:00

So late last night, I came up with the most brilliant idea for gifts for my family (mainly my grandmother).

I made a hilarious video on JibJab and yes I payed four dollars for a downloadable copy. I then proceeded to spend 3 hours cutting and editing other photos and footage into a video clip to be burned onto a DVD.

This morning while trying to burn the actual DVD, I came across a forgotten program on my Mac. iDVD. I ended up making the video with a full menu screen, chapter select screen, and bonus features! Like a real movie! How awesome is that!?

So I burned 3 copies. One for the grandparents, one for my mom, and one for my dad. My grandma gets a kick out of things like this and she has a hilarious, infectious laugh. I plan on recording her reaction when she watches it and posting it for you guys to see! Don't worry, I'll also post the video I created!

Kudos to me for cheap home-spun gifts!!

Happy December 22nd!! 3 Days Until Christmas!

I'm sad, and so close to Christmas

2009-12-21T22:56:00.000-05:00

I'm sad because I have nothing to offer this Official Kissing Day Blogfest. You heard correctly. Nothing. Nada. Zip. Zilch. Zero. Goose-egg.

My current WiP has not yet reach a kissing scene unfortunately. And I'm too terribly embarrassed to post anything older because it all stinks.

So this is what's making me sad so close to Christmas. I even held off posting today thinking maybe the scene would just write itself. Didn't happen. Sorry guys.

Oh, I also found one more thing I want for Christmas.

Adult footed pajamas. Yes, I want them. I plan on wearing them to class next semester. We nursing students have a weird since of humor. I believe the others will just love it!

Happy December 21st!! 4 Days Until Christmas!!

The time I'm glad I have no money

2009-12-20T17:36:00.000-05:00

I am absolutely broke. No exaggeration. I have all of 5 dollars in my bank account! I come up with just enough money each month to pay my school loan payment and my credit card payment. I'm lucky enough to have an awesome family who doesn't expect me to succeed in nursing school and hold down a full time job.

Usually this is pretty depressing.

But, as I look around at everyone panicking over buying gifts, I feel a little happy. Everyone knows I don't have money and no one expects anything from me this year. I can sit back and enjoy the season without a price tag attached to it.

I'm making cheap handmade things for everyone. I made personalized cookies for my friends. My parents each threw in a little money to get something for the other. As for Boyfriend, I have something hilarious planned. I won't speak of it just yet, just in case he somehow reads this, but it's going to be good!

I hope everyone remembers to take time out from all the spending and shopping and wrapping to remember why Christmas is great sans presents. It's about spending time with family and friends.

Happy December 20th!! 5 Days Until Christmas!

Dear Santa

2009-12-19T21:30:00.000-05:00

Dear Santa,

I've been very good this year. Well, except for that one night, but I don't really remember it so it didn't really happen. Just kidding. I have been good!
So this year my list is short. I can think of only one thing I would like for Christmas this year. An iPhone. Now I don't just want one because I think it's cool. I have very good reasons! First of all, my current phone is a piece of sh*t completely destroyed. It barely works and turns off randomly. Second, I have waited patient for almost 3 years (or since Apple first released the iPhone, I'm too lazy to do the math right now). Third, I would really get a lot of use out of it. And I mean a lot. I could sync up everything with my Macbook, download apps for school, and write on the go. Basically, an iPhone would complete me.

Please consider my only request this Christmas season!

Kari

Happy December 19th! 6 Days Until Christmas!

Cookies!! Part 3 - Gingerbread Edition

2009-12-18T12:25:00.000-05:00

I've finally finished most of the cookies! I did quick decorating on the gingerbread men and women.
I think they are quite cute!

Also, I'll leave you today with a new video! My sister and I decided to buy Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince at midnight. We documented it.

Happy December 18th! 7 Days Until Christmas!

Crazy for Christmas

2009-12-17T15:23:00.000-05:00

Hi newest followers! Welcome to the world of Thoughtful Confessions! My name is Kari and I'll be your tour guide for the life of this blog! If you haven't already, check out my other masterpiece blog created with my blogger-buddy Jade called Craziness Appreciation Society!

For todays Christmas post, I'm just going to refer everyone to the most recent post at the Craziness Appreciation Society about ways to be crazy during the holiday season!

Happy December 17th! 8 Days Until Christmas!

Cookies!! Part 2

2009-12-16T18:41:00.000-05:00

I'm still not finished icing them all, and I haven't even started the gingerbread men, but I couldn't wait to post some pictures!! I went all out this year. I used bags and tips instead of just spreading the icing with a knife.

This is my Decoration Station.

Here's a few "group shots".

Here's a few close-ups of my favorites!

[Yes, that last one is a Nurse Cookie!]

And, since I'm extremely low on Christmas funds this year, I made some special cookies for my friends/classmates!

There names and title (RN) and tiny little stethoscopes!!

What do you think? Did I overdo it just a bit?

Happy December 16th! 9 Days Until Christmas!

Cookies!!

2009-12-15T16:48:00.004-05:00

Or biscuits if your an Aussie (right Jade?)

Today I started the task of baking my Christmas cookies! I don't make my own dough, but I do make my own icing!

I bought way to much cookie dough. Two pounds of sugar cookie dough and two pounds of gingerbread dough. Needless to say, I'm going to be up to my ears in cookies.

I've been baking for 2 hours now, and I still have a pound of sugar cookie dough to go. I haven't even started the gingerbread yet!

I'm making progress...what do you think?

I'm going to post more pics tomorrow when I get them all iced and pretty!

Happy December 15th! 10 Days Until Christmas!

Holiday Hilarity

2009-12-14T20:48:00.003-05:00

I love parodies and spoofs and such. This is one of my all time favorite holiday songs. I giggle every time I hear it!

[The video part is not what I was looking for, just listen to the song!]

Happy December 14th! 11 Days Until Christmas!

Christmas Updates

2009-12-13T17:34:00.003-05:00

I was going to finally do my Q&A vlog when school was finished, but I'm sick and sound all nasally so I'll spare you. Soon though, my friends, soon.

This whole I'm-going-to-blog-about-Christmas-everyday-until-Christmas thing is killing me. I ran out of things to talk about in a week (hence the crappy posts). I'm too stubborn to quit. Remind me next year not to do it!

So, trying to stay Christmas related, here are my plans for Christmas Day. And it will be a busy busy day.

I will wake up early at my house and sip coffee and eat pigs-in-a-blanket with my mom until my sister wakes up. Then we will open gifts.

To Grandmother's house I go. There we will eat a Christmas dinner and open gifts.

Then I will head to Boyfriend's parents house to open gifts, then eat again.

Finally, Boyfriend and I will have our own little Christmas at his house and exchange gifts!

Am I the only one this busy on Christmas day? Does anyone else travel or have more than one family get-together?

Happy December 13th! 12 Days Until Christmas!!

Posts of Christmas Past

2009-12-12T22:55:00.001-05:00

Nice spin on words with that title, huh?
Anyway, I'm reposting one of my previous Christmas posts because:
a) I want to make sure everyone saw this particular one and
b) I'm have nothing better to post about!

So here is the video, again.

Happy December 12th! 13 Days Until Christmas!

Today I'm in a Grinch-y mood...

2009-12-11T20:15:00.000-05:00

Today was my last day of this semester and my last final exam. I studied for 18 hours yesterday. 18.
Wait...let me say that again...18!!

Needless to say, I felt pretty confident going into class today. I mean with 18 hours of studying and cramming and quizing, who wouldn't be?

However, true to form, the test was a doozy. I mean the worst one yet. When I read the first question, I wanted to hurl in the nearest trash can. My head was pounding when I got done!

But, I stayed hopeful. Like I said, how bad could you do with 18 hours of studying under your belt?

Apparently, you can still do pretty bad. I'm living proof. This, my friends, is how hard nursing school is. Now I've heard it all before:
   "Maybe you studied the wrong material?"
   "Maybe you just didn't understand it correctly?"
   ...and all other versions of this phrase.
The thing is, it's not just recalling info and picking the right answer. It's learning all the scientific info, applying it to a scenario question with four correct multiple choice answers, then choosing the best answer.

18 hours of sanity went down the drain. I didn't pass the exam, but I did pass the class...so now I'm on to my last semester of school!!

Anyways, now I can hopefully unwind and calm down for a month before going back at it. Maybe even enjoy my Christmas vacation!

I'm qualifying this as one of my Christmas posts because I said the words "Grinch" and "Christmas". And, well, because it's my blog and I make the rules :)

Happy December 11th! 14 Days Until Christmas!

Best Christmas Gift. Ever.

2009-12-10T19:24:00.000-05:00

Like the title says, this post is about the best Christmas gift I've ever recieved.

Two years ago, the grandparents sat me, my sister, and my cousins down a couple of weeks before Christmas to deliver a bit of bad news.

"We just wanted to talk to you about gifts this Christmas. Poppy and I don't have a lot of money this year so we decided to not buy gifts for anyone this year. We are just going to give you four each a card."

I wasn't shocked at all really. My sister looked confused and my 8 year old twin cousins look like they were going to bust. No presents! Really!

"And we are going to give them to you now, that way Christmas won't be such a disappointment."

My sister still looked confused. The twins now looked close to tears.

They passed the cards out, making us wait to open them at the same time.

Mine and my sister's jaws hit the floor when we pulled out the contents. The twins started squealing like little pigs.

Inside each envelope was a cruise ticket. A friggin CRUISE TICKET!

We were to set sail for the Nassau, Bahamas the day after Christmas!

Here's a few pics from my awesome Christmas trip...

Happy December 10th! 15 Days Until Christmas!

All that's missing is Santa!

2009-12-09T17:24:00.000-05:00

Looks cozy doesn't it?

Happy December 9th! 16 Days until Christmas!

Slacker Post

2009-12-08T15:39:00.001-05:00

Because I have finals this week, the next couple of Christmas posts may be cheap, short and a little crappy!

So here is a little something I put together quickly!!

Happy December 8th! 17 Days Until Christmas!

Family Traditions

2009-12-07T21:02:00.000-05:00

Christmas post #7 was almost late! My school hosted a disaster drill in collaboration with a local hospital, and I played the part of a patient. I was tucked into a hospital bed almost all day!

But onto bigger and better things...

Something I love about Christmas is how everyone has their own traditions.
Everyone's holiday rituals are different.

Christmas Tree:
Ours has always been colorful and full. When I was kid, we didn't have any particular theme. We just filled the branches with white lights and stocked it full of all the ornaments we'd made over the years!

Santa's visit:
Santa didn't wrap our gifts. They were left out, stacked neatly on the couch. Sound boring? Absolutely not! It was overwhelming to see a heap of stuff all over the place! I see the first big thing and spend about ten minutes trying to get it out of the box, then I'd see something else!

Food:
We always had Pigs-in-a-blanket for breakfast. Every year.
Instead of the traditional turkey, our main dish was something off the wall, like BBQ ribs or steaks.

Miscellaneous:
We never ever ever ever bothered cleaning up our stuff until a week later! The wrapping paper yes, but most of our gifts stayed in the family room until Mom threatened to return it all!

What are some silly traditions you had as a child? What traditions do you have now?

Happy December 7th! 18 Days Until Christmas!

How big do you want it?

2009-12-06T14:07:00.000-05:00

Again, people. Get your mind out of the gutter!
I'm talking Christmas trees again.

This is the second year Boyfriend and family (and me) have sold Christmas trees. They bought about 300 Fraser Fir Trees from North Carolina and set them up to sell!

Here are a few pictures!

Happy December 6th! 19 Days Until Christmas!

Santa Delivers Late

2009-12-05T10:02:00.001-05:00

This is one of the funniest Christmas memories of my childhood (except the thongs from Santa - see Dec. 1 post)

I was becoming a tween. I don't remember the exact age but it was probably around 11 or 12. I was moving away from Barbie's and Easy Bake Oven's and towards tween-y things. I didn't want toys for Christmas. I wanted cool clothes (you know, that all that the cool kids were wearing). I wanted earrings, and bracelets. I wanted items to turn my lavender unicorn themed bedroom into my place of refuge.
I got most of what I wanted. Of course, the clothes weren't quite hip enough and the earrings hurt my ears. I even got a few things for my beloved bedroom.

This was also the first year I got up the nerve to search the house high and low for hidden gifts. I found one gift: an awesome purple and glitter-filled lava-lamp!! I was so excited and couldn't wait to get it and put it in my room!

I was a painfully shy child (thank heavens I grew out of that), and never blatantly told my parents that I knew Santa Claus wasn't real. My sister was still young so I continued with the charade for both her and the parent's sake.

By the time Christmas rolled around I had completely forgotten about the lava lamp and didn't notice that Santa didn't actually give it too me!

My dad had forgotten where he had hidden it and had to give it to me a two weeks later.
"You know about Santa right?"
"Yeh, dad."
"Ok, here."
He's not much of a talker :)

What is a childhood Christmas memory that sticks with you?

Happy December 5th! 20 Days Until Christmas!

An Easy Gift-giving Year

2009-12-04T11:26:00.001-05:00

I was going to write about something completely different today. But something Christmas related happened last night that I must share!

Boyfriend and I go to the supermarket last night to pick up a few things for dinner and somehow get stuck on the Christmas aisle. There's lights and candy-canes and cute little things that say "Santa: This Way -->". There are also a ton of little cheap toys and gifts. Including Hotwheels cars.

I'm standing off to the side debating out loud about how this particular brand of whatever is total crap and why it's OK to spend a little money on the good stuff. When I hear no response or grunt of approval from Boyfriend, I look over.

There he is sitting on the floor looking at Hotwheels. Not just looking, but digging for the good ones. A grown man is fascinated by Hotwheels.

"This one's cool!"
"Look, look, look at this one!"
"I want this car for real!"

When I can finally pry him away for finish shopping, I tell him to go to the other end of the store and I'll be there in a minute (I have to grab something else).

On my way back through the store, I catch him playing with Hotwheels AGAIN!

Looks like my Christmas shopping for him will be easy this year!

Happy December 4th! 21 Days until Christmas!

Cheap Spirit

2009-12-03T12:05:00.001-05:00

Being completely devoid of money isn't so bad if you've got a creative edge.
Don't go out and buy tons of Christmas decorations. Use what you have around the house and make your own! Most things you can make don't even take that long!

Here's a few things I have made or plan on making!

Christmas Wreath

-Gather a lot of tree trimmings, the ends of the branches look the best. You can even ask independent tree dealers (that sounds weird, I mean not franchise stores that sell them) if you can have some trimmings from the bottom branches they trim off the trees.
-Make a ring out of a coat hanger or other sturdy wire. It should be as large as you want your wreath to be. Also, buy some green floral wire (very thin and flexible).
-Gather small bunches of your trimmings and hold to the ring. Wrap the green wire around end(that you don't want to show). Keep adding bunches (overlapping the previous) and wrapping with wire
-Add decorative pieces as you go!

Candles
1. Put food coloring (to match the rest of your Christmas decor) in water and put in a vase.
Add floating candles.
2. Use leftovers from the wreath-making, or gather more holiday foliage and arrange in a bunch around a pillar candle
3. Unscented holiday colored pillar candles can be cheap and add a splash of color and holiday spirit anywhere

Other Decor
-Put candy canes in small glasses or vases and set on mantle or tables
-Wrap the front side of small picture frames like gifts and hang on the walls
-Hang new and old Christmas cards on the wall, door frame, or set out on a table.
-Fill a bowl with extra ornaments to sit out for accent pieces

Google for more ideas!

Decorating for the holidays doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg!

Happy December 3rd! 22 Days Until Christmas!

Are those real or fake?

2009-12-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Get your mind out of the gutter. I'm talking Christmas trees today!

The eternal conflict: should I get a real Christmas tree or an artificial one?
I mean this is serious! That life question is right up there with "To be or not to be?"! (Did you get the sarcasm?)

I like both. We alternate real and artificial trees. For a few years we'll use a fake one, this for the next few years after that, we get real ones.

Here's a little something to help you choose:

Artificial Christmas Trees
Pros:
Last for years to come
One word: pre-lit
They keep coming out with ones that look more and more real

Cons:
They never go back in the box right
They start to show wear and tear after a few years
Expensive

The Real Deal
Pros:
Smell great
No storage-just toss them to the curb
Can be cheaper than an artificial

Cons
one word: needles
more difficult to string with lights
they die

Which do you prefer? Real or Artificial?
Any other pros and cons you use in your decision making?

Happy December 2nd! 23 Days until Christmas!

The First Christmas Post

2009-12-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

I've just got this crazy idea to do some sort of Christmas post every day of this month until Christmas.
I've also just got this crazy feeling that I'll be regretting it in about a week (give or take).

So for the first one on this lovely first day of December, I'm doing a meme I found on Stir Fry Awesomeness. She tagged all of her followers.

So here we go...

1. What is your favorite Christmas movie?
The Grinch with Jim Carrey.
I also like the ever-famous cartoon.

2. What is your least favorite Christmas movie?

A Christmas Story

It is usually played all f***** day

3. What is your favorite Christmas song?

It's a three-way tie.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Frank Sinatra

The Christmas Song - Nat King Cole

Santa Baby - Eartha Kitt

(I like the oldies!)

4. What Christmas song drives you crazy?

Simply Having a Wonderful Christmas Time - Paul McCartney

I cringe when the song starts.

5. What is your favorite Christmas drink?

Hot Cocoa, I suppose. I'm not a huge fan of egg nog.

6. What is your favorite Christmas memory?
I don't really remember ever having a bad Christmas. Mostly, I just remember my sister and I waking up entirely too early but having to wait in one of our rooms for our parents to wake up.

7. What is the best toy/gift you've ever received on Christmas?
Boyfriend got me a camera one year, and a new phone another year. He spoiled me too early and is now reaping the consequences. I want an iPhone!

8. What is the worst toy/gift you've ever received?
Mom was kind enough to buy me my first pairs of thongs for Christmas one year. I had to pretend they were from Santa for my sister's sake. Awkward!

9. What do you love about the holidays?
The food, being with family, the music, decorating, oh yeh--and gift exchanges!!

10. What annoys you about the holidays?
When people make Christmas ALL about gifts and seeing who can throw more money around.

11. Do you prefer a star or angel on top of the Christmas tree? Or something else?
I like to see a nice bow.

12. What are your favorite family recipes during the holiday season?
Christmas cookies! Homemade cookies with homemade icing!

13. Are you a Grinch or a Who at Christmas?
A Who definitely! I'm usual the first one to want to decorate! And I'll be honest, I like hearing Christmas music all year!

14. Christmas light displays---love them or hate them?
Depends on the display. I like them if they are classy, white lights only, maybe a few wreaths on the doors and windows.

15. Santa's at the mall --- fun times or creepy?
Creepy! I hated it when I was one (I have a picture to prove it) and hate them now!

16. Christmas cards--do you send them?
No.

17. What is the best thing about Christmas?

The music!

18. What is the worst thing about Christmas?
The day after -- it's like coming down from a month long high.

19. When do you put the tree up and take it down?
Depends on when I have time for both! As soon as possible for both.

20. Out of the 12 days of Christmas, which would to want your true long to give you?
Two turtle doves - that's always been my favorite line!

21. Why do you think Grandma got run over by a reindeer?
To annoy me to no end.

22. Who is your favorite reindeer?
Vixen, sounds like the only female reindeer in the group!

23. Do you believe in Santa Claus?
When I was younger! Sadly not anymore, it takes the fun out of Christmas!

24. What is your favorite smell at Christmas?
Everything! the tree and cookies and well--everything!

25. What would make you happy at Christmas this year?
A stinking iPhone!

I hate picking certain people to do these things...so you are all tagged!

Happy December 1st! 24 days until Christmas!

Do the wave

2009-11-30T18:50:00.000-05:00

Google Wave, that is.
Awesomely, I got an invite to test this exclusive new "thing" from Google.
Haven't really got around to figuring out how it works, but it seems to be a way to email/chat/blog/whatever live with people.

Anyway, I have 8 invites to give out, so if you want one, post your email address in the comments or send me an email.

I'm kind of excited to get more people on here and start playing with it!

A letter to myself

2009-11-30T01:25:00.000-05:00

Dear Self,

You have two weeks left of this semester, and one more semester until you graduate, then a few more months until you are licensed...STOP complaining and procrastinating!

I know you are dying for an iPhone and have been for a few years now. I also know how unfair you think it is that Boyfriend and his whole family has iPhones. But for the love of all that is grand, please stop bugging him about getting one for you for Christmas. He might start to get annoyed with you.

It is not, nor has it ever been, a good idea to start cleaning at 11:00pm. You will not be able to vacuumed to anything else you want to do without waking the entire house. Then your OCD will cause anxiety and therefore prevent sleep. And you have class tomorrow.

Stop worrying so much and just do what you need to do at this moment. You will be fine!

Love you more than you could ever know,
Me

Questions anyone?

2009-11-28T17:25:00.000-05:00

I want to do a vlog series.
No, that's not a typo.
I want to do a video blog (ie. "vlog")

For the first, and maybe all of them, I want you guys to ask me questions!
No question is too silly or stupid. Trust me.
Bring it on!

In fact, ask me tons of questions!
I'll answer all of them in a video!

What was in that turkey?!

2009-11-27T12:53:00.000-05:00

In the old tradition passed down from Thanksgiving to Thanksgiving, I couldn't wait to take a nap Thanksgiving day. I actually anticipated it! Even when I woke up that morning, I thought about how good it was going to be to stuff my face, and then sleep!

But, I think my turkey was on some sort of hallucinogens when it was alive. My nap was riddled with weird dreams that left me saying "What the hell?". One was so wacky, I must share:

Some background info first:
I just recently found out Boyfriends father can ride a unicycle.
I drink way too much coffee.
Pearl Harbor was on television while I slept.
I hate that I haven't been running for a few months.

So, my dream starts out with my friend and I watching Pearl Harbor. I could see the movie and even hear the correct lines (that was the first thing that freaked my out a little). My friend, we'll call her H, decides it would be a good idea to go to a coffee shop. She gets in her car and speeds off. I get in may car, reverse, and end up in the forest. The car no longer works, so I try to go in the house and call H. My key breaks in half. I decide to walk the normal 30 minute drive. I grab my unicycle and proceed to jog, rolling my unicycle along side of me. No, I didn't ever actually ride the unicycle. I meet a family of three jogging down the street in their dressy clothes. I come up on a group of kids fighting and I jog right through. One of the little girls ends up following me with her bike telling me to keep running because I needed to and that I was fat. Hmm...thanks little girl.

I woke up shortly after that.
That is by far one of the more freaky dreams I've ever had.
I still say something was wrong with that Turkey.

New Moon Review

2009-11-27T07:32:00.000-05:00

Okay, friends. Time to be honest with you. I really did enjoy the movie.
Ow! Who threw that at me?! Meany.
Did someone just call me a loser?
Anyway, I was surprised that I liked it as much as I did. I went in with low expectations, so that may have had something to do with it! The Twilight Saga is by no means my absolute favorite series of all time, but it's definitely developed into a guilty pleasure. Did I squeal when Jacob took his shirt off? No. Did I get excited right before the showtime? Of course!

Here's my 100% honest review of the film New Moon. All opinion and all mine!
Enjoy! And please stop throwing things at me!

[Spoiler Alert! If you haven't seen the movie and/or read the books and don't wish to hear specifics, don't read! You have been warned.]

What did you like?
- To me, Twilight seemed low-budget and I've never been a huge fan of Catherine Hardwicke's style, so with it's new director New Moon was much better.

-I'm already addicted to two songs on the soundtrack (Possibility - Lykke Li, and Satellite Heart - Anya Marina) and a few scenes from the movie are completely stuck in my head.
-New Moon also had a lot of humorous bits that relieved the teen angst from time to time.
-I was impressed with how closely the movie stayed to the book (something Twilight did not do). Almost all the dialogue was exactly as originally written.
-The special effects were better than what I expected. Even the make-up jobs were improved (no more white faces and pink ears, eyes were the colors they were supposed to be).
-I think Kristen Stewart did a great job of depicting the depression Bella went through (the screaming and crying and moping didn't look forced but genuine), but of course, I've always been a fan of hers simply because she avoided the "cheerleader" roles.
-I was glad they were sure to include little bits and pieces of the book that may have not really affected the movie, but stood out to the book lovers.
-I absolutely loved the very last second of the movie!! But it was pretty annoying hearing people say "That left if wide open for a third movie!!" Um, really? Have you been under a rock the last couple of years? There are four books people!

What did you NOT like?
-Some parts seemed rushed. For example, in the book the trip to Italy took a while and allowed for dialogue to tell more stories of the Volturi right before you meet them. In the film, all you see is them driving. Yes, I understand they can't put every single in the film, but that seemed more important than some other bits.
-Some of the dialogue was cheesy. I think this is because dialogue being read and heard are too completely different things and have to be approached differently. But what would Twilight be with out a little cheese?
-I found myself giggling at inappropriate times. I have yet to figure out why!
-I got tired of seeing Hallucination-Edward. Most of the time in the book, she only heard him. I'm just saying.

Favorite Bits
-How the months of depression were depicted (in the book, it was the three pages that said October, November, and December). The song made it perfect. I was very very near tears simply because of that heartbreaking song! (Possibility - Lykke Li)
-The funny bits with the kids at school...I cracked up!

Rating
4 out of 5

Would I watch it again?
Definitely, I have a bad habit of dissecting movies. Plus we already established that it was a guilty pleasure.

Would I recommend it?
Honestly, only if you've read and enjoyed the books. I can understand why people who haven't read the books think the movies stink!

Are you going to keep talking?
Nope. I'm done!

Thankful for Thanksgiving - Group Blog

2009-11-26T10:28:00.000-05:00

For lack of a better Thanksgiving topic, I decided to join in with Steph at Steph in the City for Group Blog Thursday. I supposed to tell everyone what I'm thankful for

So here goes:

I'm thankful the semester is almost over and that I graduate in my and will finally be able to breath again.

I'm thankful for every single member of my family, Boyfriend and his family.

I'm thankful for all my friends I've gotten to know through nursing school. We have a common bond and immediately turn to each other for emotional help!

I'm thankful that people are reading Thoughtful Confessions! Never thought it would happen!

I'm thankful for all the great people I've met and built friendships with through blogging.

I'm thankful to have my crazy awesome cat back home with me this year.

I hope everyone has a great and lazy Thanksgiving Day! Don't eat too much!

Suicide Market Trip, and Why I Hate the Theatre

2009-11-25T18:29:00.000-05:00

First of all, my adrenaline is still pumping from being at the grocery store. Yes, I had a momentary lapse of sanity. Anyone who braves the stores s the day before Thanksgiving has to be slightly insane.

After parking in the furthest spot possible, I actually took the time to read my list over a couple of times and plot my quest. Produce, crackers, milk, frozen broccoli, toilet paper. Don't deviate!

I pummeled through soccer moms to get my potatoes. I gave that old man in the dairy aisle a nice right hook when he cut in front of me at the milk (well - not really, but I thought about it after he almost ran over my toe with his scooter). People saw me coming and moved out of the path of the crazy lady! I think I even scared the cashier. When I answered "No, I don't have a discount card. No, I don't want one.", she scanned her own card. Thank you!

But I made it out alive and somewhat sane. A miracle.

I also ventured out today to see New Moon. Review to come later.
The short little trip made me realize three things:
1. I hate, hate, hate being around people
2. It will be a long time before I watch a movie in the theatre again.
3. A super-jumbo-monster $6 coke-flavored Icee finished off in an hour makes for a hurting bladder.

I plan on becoming a hermit. As soon as they make internet grocery shopping available, I'll never leave the house except to work. And if I can't order online, I just hire a personal shopper. People irritate me to no end. Especially when I pay an obscene amount of money to see a movie.

Happy Turkey Day to everyone!

"I'm Famous!" and "The Cats can Sense It"

2009-11-21T19:11:00.001-05:00

Part 1
I'm Famous!
Back when I was a wee little one, my grandfather ("Poppy") had a band called "The Gone Brothers". They played a lot of clubs and a lot on the coast. From what I can remember, all their music had a beach-y feel to it. I remember the van and the instruments and the singing.

Twenty or so years ago, Poppy wrote and produced (not a cover) a song called "Edisto". It was inspired by the Edisto River here in South Carolina. I absolutely love the song. Every time I hear it, I feel like a kid again!

Now for the "I'm Famous" part. Recently, the song has been resurrected and made a track on an actual album for sale on iTunes and Amazon (click either of these to have a listen, it's track 15)! I am still completely amazed that the song that my Poppy, my Poppy wrote that I loved and listened to as a child can be purchased worldwide (and according to his agents/lawyer/whomever, it has been)!

[I understand that everyone has different tastes in music, I totally respect that. If you happen to listen to it and do not like it, please do not rain on my parade. I happen to love the song! I don't want to see anything but nice comments!]

Part 2
The Cats can Sense It
I'm seriously convince that stray cats have a networking thing going on. They have a list somewhere of which houses can't resist a stray cat. On that list, I think they have certain names circled. These names show which residents have the potential for becoming full on cat ladies.

My name is somewhere on that list. Circled.

Since Boyfriend bought his house three years ago, stray cats have come and gone nonstop! Every couple of months a new cat shows up. He'll hang around for a few days or weeks or months. Then one day/week/month, I'll stop seeing him. Just as sadness for the loss of my little friends starts to surface, another little moocher shows up!

See what I mean? They know.
They see me sitting on the porch with my coffee, typing away at my Macbook, absolutely refusing to be within talking distance of another human being. Oh yes, they know.
They tell each other about 'that girl with the computer'. They take turns with me.
They know I can't resist!

Chubby Bunny OR How to Test Your Gag Reflex

2009-11-19T09:16:00.000-05:00

Sister and I make another attempt at embarrassing ourselves for your viewing pleasures!

The game is simple:

-Put a marshmallow in your mouth and say "Chubby Bunny"

-Keep adding marshmallows

-Say "Chubby Bunny"after each marshmallow

-Continue until you either

a. can't stop laughing (Sister)

b. gag (me)

c. choke

Completely juvenile? Yes.

Hilarious? YES!

I give you...Chubby Bunny.

It's called Personal Boundaries 2 - yes, it needed a second entry!

2009-11-18T00:39:00.000-05:00

Not only do I hate when idiots who do this, but I decided something similar needed it's own post.

I'm renaming the "elevator" the "tiny torture chamber". First of all, why do they have to be so darn small!? I mean, you can really only fit 3 people before it gets uncomfortable! And inevitably, a party of six will decide there is plenty of room, further decreasing space and increasing the anxiety! Even more awkwardness ensues when someone in the back has to get off first. Too much unwanted touching. I shudder at the thought.

Here's a funny thing I noticed when an instructor pointed it out while lecturing on personal space when I first started nursing school (we touch people a lot, so it's important to understand boundaries): Watch what people do when you get on an elevator, or even what you do when you are already there and people get on. If you are alone, chances are you will stand in the center. If someone else hops on, you automatically move to one side as if there was an invisible line drawn!

Anyways, if you want to lighten the elevator load, then I'm sure a doing some of these will ensure a peaceful, lonely elevator ride!

PS. If you haven't already, check out mine and Jade's new awesomely crazy blog the Craziness Appreciation Society! See that button on the left at the top that says CAS? Click it.

It's called Personal Boundaries

2009-11-15T12:17:00.000-05:00

and it needs to taught in public schools everywhere.
Let me see if I can describe this situation to you without demonstrating.

I'm standing in a very long line at the gas station. After a moment of standing there, a woman comes to wait patiently behind me. There's only one problem, she is unbelievably close to me.

Scary stalker close.
Making me shaky and nervous close.
I'm wondering if she can smell my shampoo close.
I have to look only slightly to my left and I can see her.
I can hear AND feel her breathing!!

At this point in time, I'm very uncomfortable.
Finally, the line begins to move a bit. I take a few steps and on the last step, I leave my foot resting on my toes behind me to perhaps my the gap wider.

No such luck. Somehow this woman still manages to be on my back like a leech.
Luckily for her, the rest of the line moved faster and I was out of there.

I gave her the stink-eye when I walked past.

This isn't just a one time thing for me. It seems like everyone always stands too close to me! I think instead of a "Kick Me" sign on my back, I have a "Pet Peeve: Personal Boundaries, please step closer" sign.

["If you can read this, you are standing way too close."]

Let the Countdown begin...

2009-11-13T10:06:00.000-05:00

I'm officially finished with clinicals this semester! Yay for me!

Now the countdown to my month-long break begins:
-two more tests
-two final exams
-two pass/fail exams
All in three weeks. Makes me tired just thinking about it.
Oh well.

On a better note, however, I think I've found my calling. Today I did my observation at clinicals in the ICU. I absolutely loved it! So it's a toss up between that and ER.

PS. To those who didn't catch my last post, go over and check out mine and Jade's new blog, The Craziness Appreciation Society...pretty hilarious if I do say so myself (of course, I am a little biased)!!

Opening Day is Finally Here!!!

2009-11-11T16:20:00.000-05:00

Of what?

The super-cool-awesome support group for people like myself.
You know, crazy people.

Dear friends, I proudly present to you....
*drum rolls
The Craziness Appreciation Society
[fyi...click the name to check it out!]
Created by the Crazy, for the Crazy.
Straight from the brilliant minds of myself and Jade

We've been keeping it semi-Top-Secret for a while, working out the kinks, brainstorming and such.
Basically, it's a new blog we've started to talk about all things crazy (broad topic, I know). There will be tons of opportunities for participation, so it's not just something to read! Tell your friends, tell your enemies, tell your frenemies. The more crazy, the merrier!

Please . . . Shut UP! (Volume 2)

2009-11-11T00:21:00.000-05:00

For my veteran followers out there, you've probably read my rants about a certain someone who shall remain nameless. For my newer followers, click here for a little insight. This particular certain someone is only getting worse - something I didn't think was possible.

Dear Obnoxious-Nosy-Know-It-All,

Perhaps you didn't get my first letter. Surely, you wouldn't be acting this way if you had. So for my mental health and that of my peers that can't stand you either, I'll re-cap a few things and add some new concerns.

1. Once again, the world does not revolve around you. Believe it or not, the rest of us could get along quite nicely without you. Hard to believe isn't it?
2. I'm having trouble understanding why you are in school at all. You seem to have the answers to everything and know more than our beloved instructors. Perhaps you should rethink you career move. Maybe you don't even need school.
3. I was noticing a small eye-twitch in my direction today. Surely you wouldn't be so petty and immature as to give me the evil eye! Maybe you should see an eye doctor.
4. Ok, this one is pretty blunt. You are NOT funny. Period.
5. I'm all for making a good impression on the teacher. Really! I am! Just so you know though, when you blatantly make references to your "inside jokes", you piss off 35 very stressed-out-on-the-edge nursing students. Probably not the smartest move on your part.
6. Go to the market. Buy some facial tissues. Wipe that brown stuff off your nose.

I believe the points I've made are for your own health.
Very Insincerely Yours,
Kari

A Shallow Stream of Consciousness - Warning: Extreme Pointlessness Ahead

2009-11-09T16:35:00.000-05:00

I'm going to write a few post and schedule them so I won't have to be stuck for a topic later. Hmmm, what should I write about? I should be studying. But its late so I won't get anything done anyway, I'll just stay on Blogger for a while. I should really write something. What do people want to read? Do people really read my posts? I wouldn't read my posts. Actually, I probably would read my posts. In fact, I read my posts now and I'm the author. I should really write some in Siren. I'll do that in a minute. Hmm, coffee's cold. Better get some more. Coffee makes my stomach hurt. My cat's stomach hurt earlier. She threw up because I fed her beef jerky. Beef jerky is so expensive. I paid $4 for 10 pieces. Everything is too expensive. I got gas station coffee last week that cost $1.39. When I got in the car, I realized I could have gone to Starbucks for twenty more cents. What a rip off. School is a rip off and expensive. You pay obscene amounts of money to sit in a room for three hours and have someone read off a presentation on the large screen at the front of the room. The same presentation is available to me online for private use so why can't I just stay home and read it to myself? Oh yes, they have to pay for those new "emergency phones" in the parking lots somehow. Speaking of parking lots, my school just hired a new security guard. I know he's new because for the last 3 years, I've only ever seen two very old men who cursed and drove the golf-carts. The new rent-a-cop is younger and he writes a lot of tickets. I get nervous when I see him. We call him Paul Blart (from the Mall Cop movie) because we don't know his real name. Names are important. I love my name because it's spelled different. However, I don't actually like spelling it correctly for everyone all the time. I say "Hi! My name is Kari!" "Oh, like Stephen King?" "No." They always get it wrong anyway. Boyfriends mother is horrible with names. For the first two or three years she could never remember my name so she just called me "Chicky". She knows my name now, but the other one stuck. I kind of like it. I just realized I wrote a lot about absolutely nothing and I love it. Perhaps I'll do it again one day. I'm tired now though, so I think I'll go to sleep. But maybe I'll have just a few more sips of coffee.

Picture it...

2009-11-09T00:49:00.001-05:00

...it's 10pm.
It's "computer/internet/blogging/writing/this-is-my-first-free-night-in-many-moons" time.
Nice cup of coffee, funny movie for some background noise.
Then, out of nowhere, my Facebook page won't load...
Then my email won't come through...

Quickly, I double-check all my signals. All full. Or so my computer says.
Still no internet though...Hmmm?
I race to check my modem and router.
All lights are lit and blinking as they should be.

What the hell?! I'm confused pissed!!

I end up having to jiggle wires and unplug and re-plug every wire I can get my hands on.
Finally, I am able to rejoin Blogger-land!! Yay for me!

For a moment, I thought I would snap. Are we really that dependent on computers and internet?
The oddest thoughts crossed my mind:

"What if someone comments on my post?! How will I comment back?!"
"I didn't get to change my facebook status!"
"How am I supposed to write a blog post tonight?!"
"I can't go to bed until I fix this!"

In retrospect, I feel quite ridiculous. But I'm well connected now and all is right with the world...well...my world.

Am I the only that flips when I can't connect!?
Better yet (and this one's for you, Jade), is there a support group?

On a completely different note, I'm curious to know what you guys want to know about me! We all know I love to talk to about myself. Shoot me an email (address in on the left) and be as silly and as serious as you want! Also send as many as you want! When I get enough, I'll put them all in their own post!

Wordle

2009-11-08T10:56:00.001-05:00

I made a Wordle cloud. I did mine using the Thoughtful Confessions url. Apparently I talked about studying too much - so I'll try to cut that out!

Guilty Pleasure #84

2009-11-06T18:19:00.000-05:00

I'm not a huge fan of sappy anything. Movies, books, TV shows.
It just doesn't push my buttons as much as a good blood-curdling horror, gut-busting comedy, or dream-inducing fantasy.

I'm also not a compulsive sit-com watcher. I find it hard to keep up with show times and just give up if I miss episodes.

However, I must confess my love for a particular television show: The Gilmore Girls. Don't judge until you've tried it. Then you may judge as much as your little heart desires!

The Gilmores are a mother-daughter combo that are more like best friends. Lorelai gave birth to her daughter Rory at 16 years old and fled the scrutinizing eyes of her high-class snobby parents. They live in a small town called Stars Hollow and reside among a host of kooky characters including:
-Luke the grumpy diner owner
-Kirk, an all-around weirdo that has a different job every episode
-Ms. Patty, dance teacher extraordinaire
-Taylor Doose, self-proclaimed tyrannical leader of Stars Hollow
and many more...so many, in fact, I can't remember them all!

I came across the show one day and was hooked. The particular channel that I watched in on ran reruns in order everyday, twice a day. I quickly became addicted. It took me an entire season to catch on to the witty, quick-paced dialogue and frequent use of pop-culture references. What I really loved though, was their addiction to coffee. Finally, I was not the only one!

I own all seven seasons on DVD and frequently run my own personal marathons! For example, for the past 3 days, all I've watched is Gilmore Girls. Not intently watching, but have just had it playing in the background while studying.

In short, if you've never seen the show, I recommend it highly! Watch a few episodes and be amazed, my friend!

Here are a few of my favorite clips.

Monkey Monkey Underpants

2009-11-04T20:53:00.003-05:00

I usually try to be witty and sarcastic and give you guys something you enjoy reading.
But not today.
Today I need to vent.

I'm like a Tootsie-Roll Pop but instead of "How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie-Roll Pop?", I'm "How many chapters does it take to get Kari Lynn to lose it?" Let's count them off together, shall we?

I am on Chapter 65 in my textbook. Sixty-friggin-five. Thats a lot of chapters in 30 weeks (2 semesters). My brain is crying for me to stop. I can't sleep, and when I can't sleep I can't think. I drink copious amounts of coffee to keep my mind at a semi-workable level. The copious amounts of coffee makes my chest hurt. Because I'm learning about diseases, my chest pains get me paranoid about possibly having 1 of 10 different illness causing chest pains. Thinking about these diseases reminds me that I must study. I make coffee to help me study. And the viscous cycle continues.

I'm am:
mad because my hardwork is not paying off,
sad because I can't write when I want to,
happy because I know I only have 5 months of this crap left,
bitter because no one really understands (except my classmates),
tired because, let's face it, who really has time to sleep anymore
depressed because I can't find time to run and therefore feel fat
regretful because I can't remember why I did all this
crazy because this can't be normal, right?

Monday: Class from 1-3pm,
   Learn absolutely nothing
   Come home and teach myself
   Write

Tuesday: no class - stay home all day and study
   contemplate quitting for a moment
   procrastinate (Thank-you Blogger :))
   write
   more studying

Wednesday: Class from 9am-12pm then 1-3pm,
   Come home and do massive amounts of paperwork
   Sleep doesn't come until 2am
   no writing time today

Thursday: wake up at 4:30am (by the way, I am not and never will be a morning person. )
   drive 30 minutes to the farthest possible hospital
   free labor for 7 hours
   receive a grade of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory
   (you read it right! No, it doesn't help my classroom grade at all.)
   come home, skip a badly needed nap, and study

Friday: No class, stay home and study
   write and clean
   assure family members that I'm still alive
   Head to Boyfriend's house for the weekend

Saturday: Study
   Explain to Boyfriend for the 1000th time why I need to study
   Study more
   Explain to Boyfriend why my studying takes so long
   (65 chapters, remember?)

Sunday: Force self to catch up on sleep
   Eat lunch
   more sleep

Wash, Rinse, Repeat!

If you have stuck with this post this far, I thank-you!
Here's a clip from my all-time favorite show.
I'm pretty sure this is what I sound like most of the time!
[I do not own this video]

The OCD that Drives Me

2009-11-03T14:07:00.000-05:00

When it comes to writing and studying I have to admit, I'm slightly OCD. I can't just sit down, open my textbook and do it. My space has to be clean. I have to have my pens, highlighters, pencils, notecards, and notebooks ready and in order. The cat must be fed because she will inevitably plop her fat furry behind down on my book halfway through a chapter wanting treats. I must be dressed in my favorite yoga pants and jacket and fluffy socks.

But above all this, I must - absolutely MUST have my music. And not just any music, no!
The perfect music. I have several iTunes playlists ready for any occasion.

Light Studying:
Something slightly peppy and catchy. Something to keep me sitting in my chair and not wandering off to find something more interesting to do. Songs must be at medium volume.

The Fear (Acoustic version) - Lily Allen
Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve
Big Yellow Taxi - Counting Crows
Under Pressure - David Bowie and Queen

Heavy Studying (hardcore, night before exam):
Something soothing. Most of the time this is a playlist consisting of mostly classical music. The relaxing kind of classical that is consistent throughout the entire piece. If put on repeat, I can't tell when the song starts and ends. There is no major climax in the piece.

Moonlight Sonata - Beethoven
Clair de lune - Claude Debussy
Also a lot of songs in my classical library consist of pieces from film scores
When Ginny kissed Harry - Nicolas Hooper (from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince)
The Chairman's Waltz - John Williams (from Memoirs of a Geisha)

Writing/Blogging/All other:
Music must evoke a feeling. If I'm writing somber, song must be somber. Etc.
I can't write a depressing scene with a dance mix hopping in the background!
This is a huge list, but I have my favorites.

Are you sad? - Our Lady Peace
Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley
Warwick Avenue - Duffy
Colorblind - Counting Crows

How do the rest of you out there in blogger-land settle into your scribbling routine?
Any rituals? Music? Must-haves?

Doing the thing I loathe...

2009-11-02T21:30:00.000-05:00

...writing an "Update" blog post!
I love reading other's update posts, but I feel my life is too mediocre to matter to most.

1. I have changed the appearance of my beloved blog yet again. I a huge fan of the dark and dreary and almost gothic (old-school gothic, not 21st century gothic) looks, but occasionally when I'm super content, I like a splash of color! What do you guys think? Is this one a keeper?

2. My mom, sister and I have discovered a spectacular game to play while consuming loads of leftover halloween candy. You gather in a sitting room, or somewhere with a floor rug available. Each player eats candy and throws the wrappers and boxes onto the area rug. The object is to knock your opponent's box/wrapper off of the rug.
[Please excuse the mess, the work out equipment has been neglected.]

3. I had a huge weight lifted off my shoulders today! No tests this week! And my test next week was postponed for the week after! Maybe I'll make decent grade now that I have more time to study!

That's all for now!

Maybe tomorrow I will attempt a decent post with purpose!

Write or Die

2009-11-02T00:08:00.000-05:00

I know I'm probably the last person on earth to try Dr. Wicked's Write or Die, but I just have to say...I absolutely love it!

The Dr. is in and totally helped me not be so OCD about my writing. I usually get so wrapped up in creating just the right flow of words that I neglect my story line. But after cranking out 1k words in a half an hour, my plot took a new turn that I actually like! Now, however, I'm in the painful process of repairing the damage that also comes from writing so fast and incorporating into Siren.

Speaking of writing, I'm still completely jealous of all you NaNoWriMo participants out there! Yes, I could probably neglect school and join you guys but that would not be healthy for my GPA. Anyways, I rather wait to do it when I can devote a good portion of my time to it! So good luck to you all! Can't wait to read about your progress through your blogs! (That is if you even have time to blog!)

Ta-ta for now, dear Blogger buddies! I'm off to another session with the Doc!

Go easy on the caffeine

2009-10-30T10:53:00.002-04:00

Once again, Sister and I are determined to make YouTube history
Enjoy!

Let the Crazy Flow

2009-10-27T11:04:00.002-04:00

I bet you though this was going to be an awesomely random post full of hilarity, didn't you?
This is merely a means to an end, my friend.

The erratic behavior you, my dear readers, have witnessed here at Thoughtful Confessions is a gift.
The gift of nonsense was passed on to me....by my mother.

So, it stands to reason that her randomness meter goes just a little bit higher than mine, right?

Well, stop hanging around here, and go find out!
Click the image to visit my mom and get a more potent dose of the crazies.

Clinical Journal Entry #6

2009-10-26T02:32:00.002-04:00

Endoscopy rotation was very interesting today. I was surprised that I enjoyed it as much as I did. My previous experience with the faculty in Endoscopy actually affected my entire perception of the unit. This time, I had nurses and physicians who were willing to teach me the ropes. I really enjoyed Endoscopy! I don’t think I would be happy working there, though. It seems it might become redundant.

Clinical Journal Entry #5

2009-10-26T02:31:00.003-04:00

I really enjoyed following and observing the wound care nurses today. I’ve always been interested in that aspect of nursing. I seem to be attracted to areas of nursing with a more focused concern. I think wound care is a good rotation to participate in especially for those who are interested in working in an area that is not MedSurg. I thought it was interesting how the computer system automatically refers patient for a wound care consult when a nurse on the floor does Braden assessment! I’m really enjoying during observation rotations this semester. Since I feel I have a much better grasp on my skills and patient care, I’m more receptive to the observations and determining what area of nursing I would like to work in.

Clinical Journal Entry #4

2009-10-26T02:30:00.001-04:00

I absolutely loved being in the ER. I could very much see myself working in that setting. I liked the quick turnover and how care is more focused on what is going on with the patient at that moment. I learned a lot about teaching and being a better advocate for the patient. The nurse I shadowed was kind enough to take her time with procedures and explain things. I got to see a adverse reaction to Phenergan first hand, instead of just reading about it. I feel like I learn things better when I see them rather than when I read them. I enjoy my observation time in the ER very much!

Weight Problems, movie bloopers, awards, and jealousy.

2009-10-25T05:28:00.000-04:00

Yes, my pets. It is 5 o'clock in the morning.
Your probably thinking I have class to or clinicals to get to, right?
WRONG!
In fact, I have nothing to do today except be lazy.
So why am I up this early? I have no idea!
So on to the random, early morning blog post.

I've decided to blame all weight problems on Boyfriend for the following reasons:
1. He only buys sodas.
2. He likes to eat late.
3. He insists on keeping sodas (mentioned in #1) in the bedroom resulting in late-night chugging.
4. He never gains weight

Ava (my MC) and I are on speaking terms again. She was mad at me for neglect due to school work.
Who really cares? Me...I got some writing done today.

I watched the second Transformers movie last night for the first time. Picked out two blatant bloopers. I'm disappointed.

I'm extremely jealous of all you lucky bloggers and writers out there who get to participate in NaNoWriMo in just a few short days. If I were to try, I would inevitably fail school. I hate priorities.

I've recieved an award from the awesome Stephanie at Steph in the City! Thank you so so much!
She didn't list any rules, so I'm being selfish and not passing it on :)

Au revoir, dear friends. Well, more like goodnight. Let's see if I can't get some more sleep!

Give me a break, Murphy!

2009-10-22T18:27:00.000-04:00

You know Mr. Murphy? Of Murphy's Law? The loser that stated if something can go wrong, it will?
Well, I'm beginning to think I'm a direct relative and carry the curse more than others. Why, you ask?
[all of these in one week!]

1. If I am late for class or clinicals, I will catch every traffic light, ancient driver, construction zone, or punk that thinks "There's no traffic behind you for a mile, but I think I'll pull out in front of you anyways even though I drive a manual." and thus be even later.

2. If there's a small word in a test question that completely changes everything, I will miss the small word and therefore get the question wrong, and not pass the test.

3. If I have had the pleasure of doing observations in clinical for 4 weeks straight, I will get sick the week I must return to patient care.

4. If a patient needs to have a stool sample taken to be send for lab work, the patient will also have a bum knee, not be able to get to the bathroom and proceed to poo in the bed, and not be able to move when I try to clean them up.

5. Poo mentioned in number 4 will be runny and make cleaning extra hard.

If I've grossed you out, I apologize.
It's been one of those weeks.

I've always appreciated Mr. Murphy and his laws. They tend to keep you on your toes.
But could you please pick on someone else for a while Mr. Murphy?

Where I Come From - Part 1

2009-10-18T22:02:00.003-04:00

Once again, I'm lacking in good blog topics.
One thing I love about blogging is getting to know people from all parts of the world.
Here's a little bit about where I'm from.
[click pics for larger]

Here are a few pictures of the Savannah River. We take the boats and jet skis out at much as possible during the summer. It runs all the way to the coast and creates the border between Georgia and South Carolina. The first picture is of the rapids and the second is about a mile downstream cutting through downtown Augusta, GA and downtown North Augusta, SC. The third is of Boyfriend, Sis-in-Law Someday, and I freezing our butts off for a boat ride!

This little bridge is part of a 7.5 mile biking/hiking/walking trail called The Greenway that runs throughout the town. This is where I run. I've only walked the entire thing (from one end to the other and back) one time. I regretted it immediately. The other pictures are of other portions of The Greenway. Beautiful!

This is Rosemary Hall, a historic landmark. This is actually on the same street as my home. It's twin, Lookaway Hall, is one street over. The latter is the first thing you see upon entering the state from Georgia. I like Rosemary Hall the best, it seems a more quaint and almost forgotten.

[First pic is of Rosemary Hall, second is the porch of Rosemary Hall, and the third is of Lookaway Hall.]

If we really want to, we can jump in the car and make a short scenic drive to J. Strom Thurmond Lake (you can see it on the map above). We go camping, or just drive out for a picnic or a boat ride!

The lake is manmade and I absolutely love driving down to the low side to sit by the dam and catch the breeze.

All these pics (except the last two and any pics of myself) were found on Google Images. As soon as I find time, I want to take some photos of my favorite places around town that I couldn't find on Google. More to come soon hopefully!

The Silver Lining of a Crap-tastic Week

2009-10-17T13:23:00.000-04:00

I have been entirely too busy!
I know I usually say I'm busy, but most of the time I find the time to at least throw up a quick blog! Not this week. In fact, my usual Thursday nap I take right after my 7 hour clinical day extended well into Thursday night/Friday morning. I crawled in the bed shortly after I got home around 5pm. I didn't wake up until around midnight and I got up, ate a pizza (a mini-microwave one), and went back to bed to sleep soundly all night! Hmm...is that normal?

I could go on about the crap-tastic part of the week, but I'll just skip ahead to the silver lining.
I've been given another award! Yay me!!

First, I'd like to thank my cat, who inspires a lot of my posts. Next, I want to throw a big shout out to Maxwell House Coffee for making studying and blogging simultaneously a possibility. And last but definitely not least, a huge hug and thank-you to Sandra - the oh-so gracious award-giver!
If you haven't already checked out here blog...go do it now! (Be Patient I'm Getting To the Point)

So, now I need to nominate 5 people to receive the Superior Scribbler Award....

*Jade @ Jade hears voices... (yes we're tight like that :))

*AngeliStarr @ An Angell has Fallen from the Stars

*Kaitlin @ Heart&Soul...And a few Laughs

*Amanda @ Ramblings of a Drifting Mind

*Sara @ SeeSaraWrite

Rules:

Each Superior Scribbler must in turn pass The Award on to 5 most-deserving Bloggy Friends.
Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author & the name of the blog from whom he/she has received The Award.
Each Superior Scribbler must display The Award on his/her blog, and link to This Post, which explains The Award.
Each Blogger who wins The Superior Scribbler Award must visit this post and add his/her name to the Mr. Linky List. That way, we’ll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who receives This Prestigious Honor!
Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.

Thank you, thank you, thank you Sandra! This made my week!

Cheer me up, buttercup!

2009-10-15T01:11:00.000-04:00

I thrive off laughter.
Lately, I can't seem to find the humor in anything.
I will check these websites daily:

FML
My Life Is Average
People of Walmart
MysteryGoogle

Introducing...Sandra!

2009-10-12T19:14:00.001-04:00

We all have those few blogs that we follow and love. You know, the one's that you don't dare miss an entry.

I have quite a few. Be Patient I'm Getting to the Point definitely falls in that category!

Who is the blogger behind the blog?

Everyone, meet Sandra!

This twenty-something from British Columbia dreams of being famous yet not so famous. She has more guts than I ever dream of having! You could probably find her hanging with her kitties eating Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and loving life as it is. She writes about procrastination (The First Post), and taking life into her own hands!

Sandra and I had a little chat:

If you had to be a kitchen appliance, which would you choose? Why?
I would definitely be a stove. That way I could cook delicious things and burn my masters when they tried cooking things of the less-delicious variety.

If you were stuck in a horror movie and zombies were chasing you, what would you do? (Note: there is only one non-zombie person around and you only have a paperclip :))
Let's see. Since it's a movie, I would find a kitchen that also doubled as a massive, inconceivably huge microwave. I would throw a piece of meat into the kitchen and let the zombies go after it. Once they were all inside tearing at the big honking piece of meat I would throw in the paperclip, close the door and I would FRY THEM! Or explode them. Generally whatever would happen first with a piece of metal in the microwave. Let's also assume this paperclip is pretty big too, just for good measure. I would be the hero of the day. I guess my non-zombie friend could press "start" for me.

What well-known celebrity would you like to meet in person? Why?
I think I would like to meet Kanye West. Just to punch him in the face.

What do you want to be when you grow up? Why?
I want to be a writer. I also want to own and operate my own art gallery. I'd love to live off of something I love to do!

What is something you have done that has had the most impact on your life? Do you regret it?
The one thing I did that most people can't seem to get over was moving across country to BC to meet someone that I met online. I knew it was probably a dangerous, bad decision, hardly anyone supported me, but I sold my car, quit my job packed 2 suitcases and that's all I moved with. I started college there, got a job and made some friends. I had no furniture for the 2 years I lived there and slept on an air mattress in a crappy apartment for a while. However, it completely changed my life for the better. The Romance didn't work out like anyone including myself expected. In fact it was kind of like one of those internet horror stories that you hear about all the time. But it got me out of Ontario, it forced me to live life for myself and taught me how to be completely independent and self-reliant. I also made some of the most amazing friends I could ever ask for. I never really regret anything that I do. If it weren't for this, I'd be living a completely boring life and probably would not have discovered who I am as a person nearly as early on in my life. I couldn't be happier with how everything worked out, including with the person I moved there for.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could choose only one food to eat for the rest of your life there, what would you choose? Why?
I would choose pizza. I'd get my bread, my dairy, my source of vitamin C from the tomato sauce and get protein from the pepperoni. I might actually get fancy with it and opt to have green peppers, mushrooms and pinapple on it just so I could have nourishment. No one wants scurvy now, do they? Not only that, it's delicious. I'd probably be deliriously fat after a while hahaha.

What do you think is "the spice of life"?
Buffalo sauce. It's delicious. But actually, I think that spice of life is living your life without fear. It's following your heart and doing what you feel you are called to do so to speak. Your life can never be bland that way. Reese's Pieces help too.

What is one of your weirdest pet peeves?
Bad breath/teeth. I take it almost to an extreme level. Bad breath makes me gag. Bad teeth make me gag. I don't mean crooked, I mean unclean and uncared for teeth. I cannot understand how someone can go through life having a garbage mouth. Just thinking about it gets me all weird feeling. This is why I carry gum and mints with me at ALL times. It's absolutely necessary.

Tell us about one of your most embarrassing moments?
I was 12 and I was in a piano competition. I wasn't feeling so hot the whole day. I went up, played my piece, accepted my award and was ready to get up and go home when all of a sudden I just threw up. I was in the middle of the church, sitting in a pew and everyone in there turned and looked at me. It was a horrifying experience!

Do you think you fit the typical Gemini personality?Absolutely. I fit all the positive and negative Gemini stereotypes. I'm also in the year of the Ox and fit that personality description to a Tee. Sometimes I find myself justifying the way that I am because of the month or year I was born in, but it's hard not to when you're basically a text book example of what a Gemini and an Ox are! Apparently I am not supposed to get along with anyone who is a Taurus, but I have lots of Taurus friends and they're cool. So maybe I don't fit ALL the descriptions.

One last thing: what is your theory on why I asked you all these pointless questions?
Well I think you must be genuinely interested in people and how they respond to questions you ask them, otherwise you wouldn't do it in the first place. Some people might give sarcastic or witty answers, some might be serious, some might be a combination of both. It's a learning tool. Or maybe you think I am really cool and want to know if you were that non-zombie friend whether or not I would sacrifice you to save my life or if you were stuck on a deserted Island whether or not I'd have anything good to share hahaha. But I can't actually be sure.

End Randomness

Now go check out Sandra's blog!

Be Patient I'm Getting to the Point

*****
If anyone else would like to participate in a silly interview just email me! Email address is on the left!

Gotta love small-town life!

2009-10-10T17:02:00.000-04:00

As usual, Sister and I are bored out of our minds.
We live on one of the busiest streets in our town.
We get drivers literally flying by our house at all hours of the night!
Our latest game is to try and slow them down :)

TMI Thursday - I didn't wake up

2009-10-08T14:48:00.005-04:00

If you haven't experienced the hilarity of Live It, Love It, well...you need to. So get off your lazy butts and surf on over!!!

Every Thursday Live It, Love it makes a TMI (too much information) post and kindly invites us all to join!

So...on to my TMI Thursday post

I have always, as long as I can remember, had extremely vivid dreams. In most cases, I will move, laugh, cry, etc. in my sleep.

Shortly after moving in with Boyfriend, I had a really stressful day and had lots of studying to do. So, I had the coffee coming in a steady rate to get things done. Every couple of hours I could be found with a fresh cup of coffee. Also, at this particular juncture in my life I was having a killer urinary tract infection. I had just started doing my 7 hr. clinicals and in case you didn't know: nurses don't get to pee.

So stressful day is over, and I sit down to try to cram more info into my brain before bed. Yes, I had two cups of coffee. Well 2am rolls around and I figure that I'd better go to sleep. After all, I had to be "well-rested" for my 9am class!

I collapse into the bed without doing my normal nightly routine (ie, brush hair, wash face, pee). At some point in time during my slumber, I started in on one of my very extremely vivid dreams.

It was more like dream-hell. I dreamed I had to pee worse than I ever ever ever had before and there wasn't a toilet anywhere! I swear the dream lasted FOREVER! Finally, dream-self finds a bathroom! A wonderful glorious amazing bathroom! I start to do my business.

Then I wake up. In a small puddle.

Lovely. A twenty-something girl just wet the bed like a toddler.

I mentioned that I had just moved in with Boyfriend. We were still in the "poop is not a natural thing" "sneak out of bed to brush your teeth" "don't look at me without makeup" stage.

I was MORTIFIED!!!!

[This was very embarrasing for me to tell. I blame the stress and coffee. No, I don't wet the bed all time!]

Meet my Sis!

2009-10-06T09:08:00.006-04:00

If you don't understand how a woman could both love her sister dearly and want to wring her neck at the same time, then you were probably an only child.

-Linda Sunshine-

We are seven years apart.

Finally, she is old enough to have fun with! Haha!

[I'm on the right, she's the blondie on the left!]

[And yes we are real sisters! My dad is blonde haired, blue-eyed, and pale skinned; my mom is brown haired, brown eyed, and olive toned.]

You know you are a cat-person when...

2009-10-05T02:12:00.003-04:00

...you take on their mannerisms.

True story. Happened this very evening. I kid you not.

Boyfriend and I went outside to enjoy the weather and work on some eBay stuff.

About a half hour late, Boyfriend suddenly starts backing up.

"Look out!"

The first thing on my mind is "Oh man, not another roach!"

I look up to see a huge possum (opossum?) headed straight for the edge of the porch and straight for me. He looked like he was about to jump.

Boyfriend: "Get back! He's gonna...

Me: Hiss *jumps towards it and stamps foot* Possum runs away.

Boyfriend (sounding a little stunned): ...jump."

Yes. I hissed. Like a cat.

I don't know where it came from! Maybe it was instinct. Maybe I was a cat in another life. Maybe I play with my kitty too much. Who knows!!

Update

2009-10-04T10:40:00.003-04:00

*I'm exhausted, school is killing me.

*Once again, the creative flow has stopped (thank-you school)

*Finished Ch. 2 of my current WIP Siren (and I'm actually happy with it! That's a first!)

*What do you guys want to see, as far as blog entries go?

-rants

-Letters to Idiots

-updates

-Photos prompts

-Silly Interviews

-Boyfriend stories

*Had an idea to do a Video blog of where I live...what do you think?

10 Things You Will need to be a Nurse

2009-10-03T15:42:00.006-04:00

This week was absolute pandemonium at school.

I really enjoy nursing. Really.

For those considering Nursing as a career, here are ten things you need for school.

1. Duct tape: To keep your mouth shut when an instructor/nurse hands you your own butt on a silver platter

2. A large hammer (Acme type seen in cartoons): To pound tons of information into your brain in a short time.

3. Extra brain cells: To be fried with said information (see number 2) but still allowing for a functional human being.

4. Infinite amounts of coffee/tea/caffeinated drink of choice: To stay up all hours of the night studying, and to wake up again for 6am clinicals after getting 4 hours of sleep.

5. Chiropractor: to work the kink out of your back from carrying multiple 20lb (9kg) books, also from lifting and moving morbidly obese patients

6. Antidepressants (if prescription can be obtained): To prevent fits of anger, rage, severe depression and psychosis

7. Willpower: To keep going when you honestly can't remember why you ever wanted to be a nurse.

8. Money (by means of loan, family, sugar-daddy, etc): To keep the bills paid because it's almost impossible to work while in school

9. A heart: To enjoy making someone else's day better, without praise or compliment.

10. Support (family, husband, boyfriend, friend, etc): To

tell you everything will be OK.

I really do love it. I swear.

It had to come up sometime

2009-09-30T17:34:00.006-04:00

The Twilight topic that is.

Instead of commenting on every blog post I come across debating whether the Twilight Saga is the best or the worst, I'll just go ahead and say what I think. Not that anyone cares, but I put my two cents on everything else, so here we go.

[Disclaimer: This is all purely my opinion. I am, by no means, an expert on anything. If you agree or disagree, that's fine. Feel free to comment. However, please do not bash my tastes or opinions. Oh and here's your spoiler alert in case you've been living in a cave for two years and have not watched movie/read books!]

The Books

Yes I read all the books. Twice.

Do I think Stephenie Meyer penned the great American novel? No.

I think the plot was amazing. I was hooked from the beginning. I read the entire series in two weeks (in the middle of a school semester at that!). I liked that it was an easy read (especially since I read between studying) and that I got emotionally involved with the characters. There were a few things I disliked though, and that I had to look past to enjoy the story.

The repetition really got to me. I get that Bella swoons. That's cool. Shows how amazing Edward is. But do we really need a 200 word description of each and every fainting spell? Same thing with the sparkling descriptions, and the sound of them hitting each other. Glitter, check. Boulders crashing, check. I got it, Steph! Thanks!

New Moon: enough said. I hated it! I almost put it away for good when Edward left, simply because it was not where I wanted the story to go. Yes, it all worked out in the end, but I struggled to get there. I broke my cardinal rule #2 (#1 being not to watch the movie first) and flipped to the end to see if Edward returned. I read it purely to get to Eclipse.

Speaking of Eclipse. It wasn't the best one either. Once again, I enjoyed reading it because it pushed the story along. I didn't like that the entire book centered around the love triangle (maybe because romance typically isn't my favorite genre) until the very end.

I thoroughly enjoyed Breaking Dawn. Totally didn't see the pregnancy coming. I like a when a story takes a good turn and one that I didn't expect. I also like the epic "un-battle" scene. I know a lot of people didn't think it was a good end, but I like the message it portrayed to the tweens reading the series: Violence solves nothing. I'm a firm believer in that, and like that Stephenie didn't write yet another 2 chapters describing the sound vampires make when they hit each other.

The Movie (soon to be movies)

I like Twilight simply because I had already read the books. If I had been a "Twilight virgin" I probably would have hated it. I'm not a huge fan of Catherine Hardwicke's style either. I think the film was extremely low budget and they cut a lot of corners (like the make-up department! Carlisle, honey, I can see your makeup line). A lot mental pictures I already had of the characters and scenes were trashed (like the sparkle,sparkle). But, like I said, I like it because I already read the series.

I'm totally excited about New Moon. New director, more money. Enough said! If you haven't seen the latest trailor (originally debuted during MTV VMA's), watch it! I would go just to see Dakota Fanning!

Anyways, there's my two cents. Well, looking back it seems a little more than two cents.

By the way, what are the international equivalents of the phrase "put in your two cents"?

Introducing Jade...and her voices

2009-09-30T16:00:00.000-04:00

One of the very first blogs I began following is the very awesome Jade hears voices!

Finally! I thought to myself. Someone just as nutty as I am! And I mean that in a good way!

So, who is this amazing blogger?

Jade, meet Blog-world. Blog-world, meet Jade. Are we all good and acquainted? Good! Let's get started!

She hails from Australia and can probably be found hidden in a closet writing the next best-seller! Jade, like many of us, is blogging about her journey through the wonderful world of hoping-to-be-published writing (check out Directions to Editing Hell)! The voices in her head sometimes pop in for a quick "hello" too!

Jade and I had a little chat!

What do you want to be when you grown up? Why?

A cat. Hello?! They sleep like 23 hours a day and when they want their belly scratched, they just roll over. Plus they're natural born killers--just like me!

If you had to choose to be any vegetable in the world, what would you be? Why?

Brussel sprouts because they aren't very popular so I'd stand a better chance of not being eaten.

[note from Kari Lynn: I totally guessed her answer to this one before hand...creepy huh?]

If aliens with time machines approached you and gave you a choice of either traveling to the past or to the future, which would you choose? Why? If you choose past, what time period?

Definitely the past. The future is going to suck because the sun is going to explode and everyone will wear orange nylon suits.

Probably the 1920's. Predictable choice perhaps, but it seems like a groovy time. Plus, you didn't know back then that we were slowly killing the planet, so you wouldn't have the guilt. Also, I look pretty rockin' ina headband, you only have to go to my blog to see that.

If you try to fail, but you succeed, which one have you ultimately done?

That's called an Epic Fail. Dude, you're pretty hopeless if you can't even fail successfully. Practice a bit and then try for a second attempt.

Which of the seven deadly sins would you consider yourself? (Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, or Pride) Why?

Envy for sho. I'm an insanely jealous person. It's nothing to be proud of, but there you have it. You should especially stay away from my husband--bitch, I will scratch your eyes out!

If a movie was made about your life, who would you want to play you? Why?

Liv Tyler because I think we share a similar ethereal beauty. Plus, she got it on with Aragorn and I always wanted to.

If you could save one material possession in your house, what would it be and why? (Not Husband or pets!)

Laptop, without a doubt. All my writing is on it (which is basically my future wealth on hard drive), plus is has photos on it. Everything else can burn. Wait, was there even a fire? Okay, there is now.

Explain one of your guilty pleasures!

Well, everything I do is pretty cool but I do enjoy watching re-runs of the original 90210. I'm still scarred from when Dylan and Kelly hooked up, effing back-stabbing bitch!

What is the weirdest thing you've done while driving?

I'm probably the world's worst driver so I'm pretty incapable of doing anything other than watching the road but I did get my car stuck on a drain pipe when I was 17. Also, when Husband was teaching me to drive a manual, I stalled it at a roundabout and there was a car coming up behind me. I jumped out and ran away. I was 22.

Describe a current obsession!

Okay, so several weeks ago I started my own blog. Seriously, that's my only obsession at the moment, except for writing and reading, and yes I am aware that all of my street cred just flew out the window. I spend way too much time thinking up potential blog posts and hours reading other blogs. Nothing rocks my world like someone commenting on a post I did or finding out I have a new "groupie". I keep waiting to get bored with it (because I have the attention span of a fly on a sugar high) but for the present, I'm obsessed. Sorry, you were probably hoping I'd talk about my awesome rock collection or something...

Explain your theory on why I asked you all these pointless questions

You're writing a book called "Crazy Bitches and the Things They Say", so basically this is just market research. You knew that I'd volunteer because I obviously love talking about myself, therefore you have a prime access to Crazy Bitch #1!

End of randomness

Now, don't you just want to hug her!! Go check out her blog now!

Jade hears voices...

* * * *

If anyone else would like me to "interview" them, just shoot me an email!! (address is on the left!)

I love finding stuff like this

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[The grandparents and me at 4 years old]

School is giving me nightmares

2009-09-28T01:12:00.003-04:00

Literally! I took a nap today and had one of those unbelievably vivid nightmares about clinicals! The kind of dream where you really really really don't know you are dreaming. And when you finally wake up, you are completely disoriented! Maybe my subconscious is trying to tell me something. What do you think Freud?

Just a few updates:

This week will be a living hell for me! Three tests (which doesn't make much sense because I'm only enrolled in two classes)! KariLynn will be missing out on blogger world until Thursday :( Who am I kidding...blogging is a procrastinators heaven!

I want to start doing some silly interviews of my followers...anyone interested or willing? Let me know! Email is on the left!

I hit the big 3-0!! Followers that is! Feels good to know my entries aren't just lost to cyberspace!

I'm sure this week will make for some interesting posts later!

Clinical Journal Entry #3

2009-09-26T16:09:00.001-04:00

Today was definitely an interesting, fast-paced day! First I got to actually see (not read about) my patient in respiratory distress. Reading about a situation is nothing compared to seeing it with your own eyes and experiencing it. Having seen it, I will never forget what it looks like! Next, I got to see wound care on a venous ulcer. I also got to watch the same patient have a central line inserted. I assisted in holding the patient still and providing some comfort during the procedure! I love having busy days. Even though I had lunch way later than normal, I didn’t even notice! I’m starting to realize I want to work somewhere fast paced!